Check your balls and detect testicular cancer early

Testicular cancer is a form of cancer that mainly affects men and often occurs in young men between the ages of 15 and 35. It's important to be aware of this condition and know how to check your balls for possible symptoms.

What is testicular cancer?

Testicular cancer is a form of cancer that originates in the testicles, or the male gonads located in the scrotum. It usually starts as a small lump or swelling in the testicle, which may not cause pain. Although testicular cancer is relatively rare, it is important to be aware of it because early detection increases the chance of successful treatment.

In this article we will discuss why checking your balls is important and how you can do it.

How should you check your balls?

Regular self-examination of the balls can help in the early detection of testicular cancer. Checking your balls can be very simple and can be done regularly at home. Here are the steps you can follow:

Step 1: Plan a date with your balls. It is important to regularly repeat the self-monitoring examination. This way you know if anything has changed in the meantime.

Step 2: Take a warm shower or bath. The warm water can help relax the muscles in your scrotum, making it easier to notice any abnormalities.

Step 3: Check the size and weight. With your open palm, feel the scrotum and testicles from below. Has the sizes and weight changed?

Step 4: Use your thumb, index and middle fingers for further examination.

Step 5: Roll. Then roll the testicles back and forth between the thumb and fingers.

Step 6: Check how they feel. Check 1 testicle at a time with both hands. Normal testicles will feel soft and move freely in the scrotum. So see if you feel any lumps or other abnormalities.

Step 7: Also check the epididymis. Locate the epididymis, a coiled tube found on top and behind the testis, check the skin of the scotum.

(Step 8: Contact your doctor). Any lumps or swellings should be reported to your doctor as soon as possible.

It is important to know that it is normal for balls not always to be exactly the same size or symmetrical. So it's completely normal that one testicle is slightly larger than the other. However, if you notice new lumps, hard spots, pain or swelling, contact a doctor. They can perform further tests to determine the cause of these symptoms.

Why is it important to check your balls?

Testicular cancer can occur at any age, but is most common in men between the ages of 15 and 35. Early detection of testicular cancer significantly increases the chance of successful treatment. By carrying out regular self-examinations, you can spot any abnormalities or complaints in time and seek medical help as quickly as possible.

In addition, studies have shown that men with testicular cancer often have a better prognosis than men with other types of cancer. This is because testicular cancer is usually detected early and grows quickly, making it easier to treat compared to other types of tumors.

Testicular cancer can quickly spread to other parts of the body if it is not detected and treated early. By checking your balls regularly, you can recognize possible symptoms earlier and take action faster. Early diagnosis increases the chance of full recovery and often makes less invasive treatments possible.

When should you consult a doctor?

It is advisable to perform regular self-examinations so that you become familiar with how your balls normally feel. However, if you notice any of the following symptoms, contact a doctor immediately:

• ☑️ A lump or thickening in the ball
• ☑️ Pain or discomfort in the ball, scrotum or groin area
• ☑️ Swelling of the ball, scrotum or groin area
• ☑️ A change in size or shape of the ball
• ☑️ Unexplained fluid accumulation in the scrotum
• ☑️ A heavy feeling in the scrotum
  

It is better to rule out concerns and consult a doctor if these symptoms occur. A doctor can examine you further and, if necessary, perform additional tests to diagnose or rule out testicular cancer.

Conclusion

Checking your balls for testicular cancer is a simple but important step you can take for your own health. By regularly performing self-examination and being alert to any abnormalities, you increase the chance of early detection and successful treatment. Remember that testicular cancer is highly treatable if caught early. So be aware, take the time to check your balls regularly and don't hesitate to seek medical attention for any questionable symptoms.

Self-control can save lives! If you have any doubts or questions, always contact your doctor.