By paying attention to any changes in the genital area, performing regular self-exams, and scheduling routine medical checkups, men are better able to detect testicular cancer symptoms and signs. Cancer can be found in one or both testicles and may spread to other parts of the body, including the lymph nodes and abdomen. Finding testicular cancer early increases the ability of the medical team to select from among more treatment options and achieve the best possible outcomes. Some of the more common symptoms and signs of testicular cancer include:

• A lump in the testicle, often without pain
• Change in size or feeling, e.g., one testicle may be larger or more firm than the other
• Swelling in the scrotum or in one or both legs
• Pressure, weight, or ache in the scrotum or groin area
• Breast soreness or swelling, lumps, and changes noticed in the breasts
• Chest pains
• Fluid collecting in the testicles
• Shortness of breath or coughing up phlegm with blood
• Early signs of puberty in boys
• Belly or lower back pain

It is important to note that these symptoms may indicate causes other than cancer, such as inflammation resulting from a viral or bacterial infection, or a response to an injury.  However, any testicular cancer symptoms should be evaluated promptly by a medical practitioner.