Scrotal Masses

To find out what kind of scrotal mass you have, you may need tests such as:

A physical exam. During this exam, a doctor or other health care professional feels your scrotum, its contents and nearby areas of the groin while you stand and lie down.
Transillumination. Shining a bright light through the scrotum might provide information about the size, location and makeup of a scrotal mass.
Ultrasound. This test uses sound waves to make an image of the inside of the body. It can provide detailed information about the size, location and makeup of a scrotal mass. It also can show the condition of the testicles. An ultrasound often is needed to diagnose a scrotal mass.
Urine test. Lab tests of a sample of urine might find an infection caused by a virus or bacteria. A urine test also might detect the presence of blood or pus in the urine.
Blood test. Lab tests of a blood sample might find a bacterial or viral infection. Or they might detect higher levels of certain proteins that are linked with testicular cancer.
Computerized tomography (CT) scan. If other tests show you have testicular cancer, you’ll likely get this series of X-rays. A CT scan of your chest, stomach area and groin can check to see if cancer has spread to other tissues or organs.

Symptoms

When to see a doctor

Request an appointment

Complications

Blood clots are a dangerous complication of atrial fibrillation (AFib). Blood clots can lead to stroke.

The risk of stroke from AFib increases as you grow older. Other health conditions also may increase the risk of a stroke due to AFib. These conditions include:

High blood pressure.
Diabetes.
Heart failure.
Some types of heart valve disease.

Blood thinners are commonly prescribed to prevent blood clots and strokes in people with atrial fibrillation.

Prevention

Healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of heart disease and may prevent atrial fibrillation (AFib). Here are some basic heart-healthy tips:

Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
Don't smoke or use tobacco.
Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Reduce and manage stress.

By Freedmans Health Clinic Staff

Living with atrial fibrillation?

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