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Warning-sign checks

Testicular biopsy: when to get help

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. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    These need assessment but are not always emergencies.

    Seek urgent or emergency care for:

    • Rapidly enlarging or tense scrotal swelling
    • Bleeding that does not stop with gentle pressure
    • Severe or sudden testicular pain
    • Fainting, marked weakness or difficulty breathing
    • A serious reaction after anaesthesia
    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. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Contact the treating team promptly for increasing redness, warmth or swelling; pus or unpleasant-smelling drainage; fever; a wound that opens; or pain that is worsening rather than improving.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Mild bruising, tenderness and a small amount of wound spotting are usually discussed at routine follow-up unless they worsen or concern you.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Testicular biopsy. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.