Swelling of your testicles after lifting weights is the sign of a condition called an inguinal hernia. This condition is not life-threatening and unfortunately does not resolve on its own. If left untreated for a long period of time, the condition may lead to life-threatening complications.
Causes
Inguinal hernias are caused by a portion of your intestinal tract slipping into your scrotum through a weak point in your lower abdominal wall. This can be caused by increased intra-abdominal pressure that occurs during heavy weightlifting. You are at increased risk for inguinal hernias if you are overweight, you cough excessively, or you suffer from chronic constipation.
Symptoms
One of the primary symptoms of an inguinal hernia is a swelling of the area of your testicles. When soft tissue from your abdomen slips through a weak point in your abdominal wall, you may notice a swelling of your scrotum. Inguinal hernias also manifest themselves with pain while bending over, a dragging sensation in your groin and a burning sensation in the area of the bulge.
Diagnosis
A physical examination is usually all that is required for a physician to diagnose an inguinal hernia. In some cases, ultrasound and x-rays may also be done to prepare for treatment. In most cases all a physician will do is ask you to stand and cough. Standing and coughing make a hernia more prominent and will help your doctor make his diagnosis.
Treatment
The treatment for inguinal hernias is surgical. The procedure can be carried out laporoscopically or as open surgery. This depends on the severity of the hernia. These procedures are carried out under general anesthesia. After the surgery, your doctor will recommend that you maintain a healthy weight, quit smoking and eat high-fiber foods to prevent the development of another hernia. Weightlifting carefully and while using proper form will also help prevent the development of hernias.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Inguinal Hernia
- National Institutes of Health: Hernia
- "Exercise and Health"; T.A. Asmangulyan; 1997
- "Preventive and Social Medicine"; K. Park, J. E. Park; 1995
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