Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Seek emergency care now for sudden, severe testicular or scrotal pain, especially if it comes with nausea, vomiting, an unusually high or sideways testicle, or rapid swelling.
These can be signs of testicular torsion.
Treatment is most effective when blood flow is restored quickly.
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Get urgent same-day medical assessment for any new testicular pain or swelling, even if it developed gradually.
Other urgent reasons include:
Fever with worsening scrotal pain or redness
Severe pain that is difficult to control
Vomiting or inability to take prescribed medicine
Rapidly spreading redness or marked swelling
Feeling faint, confused, or seriously unwell
Scrotal pain after a significant injury
Arrange follow-up promptly if symptoms are not improving within about three days of treatment, return after treatment, or last longer than expected.
A persistent lump, firm area, swelling, or heaviness also needs examination.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Routine follow-up may include reviewing test results, adjusting antibiotics, arranging STI partner care, or investigating repeated episodes.
Chronic discomfort lasting six weeks or more is another reason to request further assessment.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Epididymitis. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.