Testicular torsion, an emergency

Testicular torsion is when testes twist around the spermatic cord(from which the testes are suspended), cutting blood flow to the testicle. This causes sudden severe pain on one side of the scrotum-an emergency, we have 6 hours to save the testes.

Very shortly the scrotal skin will start to swell and turn red. You may also feel nauseous and vomit. The testicle will shrink and could die if blood supply is not restored(by operation) with 6 hours.

One study found, nearly 75% of patients needs the testicle removed if surgery is removed past 12 hours

You're more likely to have testicular torsion if you:

• Are between the ages of 12 and 16 (though it can happen at any age)

• Often do intense exercise

• Injure your testicles

• Are exposed to the cold