5 Most Painful Things a Man Can Experience, According to an ER Doctor

When it comes to medical emergencies, there are certain conditions that hit men harder—literally and figuratively. As a board-certified ER doctor, I’ve seen firsthand the excruciating realities of male-specific injuries and conditions. Some strike without warning, others build over time, but all of them have one thing in common: sheer, unforgettable pain.

So, what are the most painful things a man can go through? Here are the top five, backed by real ER experience and medical insight.

1. Testicular Torsion: A Sudden, Twisted Nightmare

Testicular torsion is the medical definition of "twist and shout" — except there's no shouting, just screaming. This condition occurs when the spermatic cord, which supplies blood to the testicle, becomes twisted. The result? Blood flow gets cut off, leading to rapid, severe pain that radiates from the groin to the abdomen and back.

Symptoms include:

• Sudden, intense testicular pain

• Swelling

• Nausea and vomiting

• Inability to walk comfortably

Why it's serious: If untreated within six hours, the testicle can die and may require surgical removal (orchiectomy). The condition can be hereditary, particularly for those with a "bell clapper" deformity. Treatment typically involves emergency surgery to untwist and secure the testicle.

Pain rating: 9/10 – A true medical emergency.

2. Kidney Stones: The Ultimate Internal Obstacle Course

Passing a kidney stone has been described by patients as "worse than childbirth."

These hard deposits of minerals form in the kidney and must travel through the narrow ureter to reach the bladder. It’s like trying to pass a jagged rock through a coffee straw—inside your body.

Symptoms include:

• Sudden, stabbing back or abdominal pain

• Pain radiating to the groin

• Nausea and vomiting

• Blood in urine

Why men are more at risk: Men are more likely to develop kidney stones between the ages of 30 and 60 due to dietary habits, hydration levels, and longer urethras.

Treatment options:

• Small stones: fluids, pain relief, and patience

• Large stones: shockwave therapy (lithotripsy) or surgical removal

Pain rating: 9-10/10, with a high recurrence rate if hydration isn't prioritized.

3. Priapism: The Four-Hour Warning You Shouldn’t Ignore

We've all seen the ads: "Seek help if your erection lasts more than four hours." That’s not just a side note—it’s a warning about a condition called priapism.

What is it? Priapism is a prolonged, painful erection unrelated to sexual arousal. Blood becomes trapped in the penis and can't escape, leading to throbbing pain and potential tissue damage.

Common causes include:

• ED medications like Viagra or Cialis

• Blood disorders (e.g., sickle cell anemia)

• Recreational drugs

• Unknown causes

Treatment:

• Ice packs and vasoconstrictor medications

• In severe cases, direct drainage using a needle (yes, really)

Pain rating: 8/10 panic level – high risk of permanent damage if left untreated.

4. Penile Fracture: Yes, It Can Happen

Despite not having an actual bone, the penis can be "fractured." When the tunica albuginea (the membrane around erectile tissue) tears from sudden bending or trauma during intercourse, it results in a penile fracture.

Symptoms include:

• A popping sound

• Sudden, sharp pain

• Immediate swelling and bruising

Why it matters: Immediate surgery is typically required to avoid long-term complications like erectile dysfunction or penile curvature. Recovery involves rest and strict avoidance of sexual activity for weeks.

Pain rating: 10/10 for many – unforgettable and traumatic.

5. Epididymitis & Orchitis: The Testicular Double Threat

When infection or inflammation hits the epididymis (a tube at the back of the testicle) or spreads to the testicle itself (orchitis), it results in blinding, persistent pain that can last for days.

Symptoms include:

• Throbbing testicular pain

• Swelling, redness, and heat

• Fever, chills, and nausea

Causes:

• Bacterial infections (UTIs, STIs like chlamydia or gonorrhea)

• Viral infections (e.g., mumps)

• Prolonged pressure (e.g., bike riding)

Treatment:

• Antibiotics

• NSAIDs for pain

• Scrotal support

• Rest

Pain rating: 10/10 – long-lasting and debilitating if untreated.

Don’t Tough It Out: Know When to Seek Medical Help

From torsion to kidney stones, these male-specific conditions are no joke. If you experience sudden, severe pain or swelling in the groin or lower abdomen, don’t wait it out. Immediate medical attention can make all the difference.