How To Detect Testicular Cancer

Understanding how to detect testicular cancer is something that every man should know, since this form of cancer can be deadly if not identified and treated while still in its early stages. Testicular cancer can affect men of any age, although the highest incidence of the condition is among men who are between the ages of 30 and 50. The process used to detect testicular cancer actually begins at home, then moves on to involve current medical technology that can confirm the diagnosis, and pave the way for effective treatment. Every male over the age of eighteen should know how to conduct a self examination, what to look for, and when to see a doctor when any type of irregularity with the testicles is discovered.

1. Take a hot shower. As the temperature around the body increases, the testicles will descend further from the body. This makes it much easier to examine each testicle in turn, and determine if there is anything out of the ordinary present.
2. Examine each testicle individually while still in the shower. Starting with one testicle, use the thumb and forefinger to lightly grip the body of the testicle. Feel along the surface to determine if there are any areas where the tissue seems to be tougher or somewhat uneven. Repeat the process with the other testicle. A healthy testicle has a relatively smooth surface and is slightly spongy to the touch. Any growths that are somewhat rigid and rough in texture indicate something is not normal with that testicle.
3. Report your findings to your healthcare provider at once if anything seems unusual. While there are several reasons other than cancer that may be the reason for the rough area on the testicle, the only way to be sure is to undergo a thorough examination by a professional. Along with the examination, your doctor will also gather fluid samples and have them analyzed for the presence of certain markers that indicate the presence of cancer in the testicles.

Scheduling the examination as soon as possible accomplishes two things: first, your mind can be put at ease if it turns out the issue is due to a groin pull or similar circumstances, and can be treated with a little rest and possibly some medication. Second, if the tests do indicate the present of testicular cancer, early detection greatly increases your chances for survival.

Keep in mind that a diagnosis of testicular cancer is not an automatic death sentence. Many men survive this form of cancer and enjoy many more years of living. By taking the responsibility to conduct a self examination at least once a month, you greatly increase your chances of detecting testicular cancer early, and overcoming it in a short period of time.

Tips and Warnings

• Many men are concerned that losing a testicle to cancer will have a negative impact on their ability to engage in intercourse, or to father a child. The fact is that a man is perfectly capable of continuing to enjoy sex and become a father with one functioning testicle.
• For men who find that losing a testicle causes them to be shy about undressing in front of a partner, there are prosthetic testicles that can be placed into the scrotum, restoring the appearance of two healthy testicles. Your doctor can advise you of how this procedure works, and how soon after the removal of the cancerous testicle that the prosthetic can be inserted.

Reference:

Testicular Cancer