Johnson immediately sought medical attention, but faced a tense 24-hour waiting period for definitive results. During this time, he had to maintain a public persona, performing alongside Kevin Hart and Jack Black for the “Jumanji” film promotion.

By the way: I'm fine. But I didn't know that then, and the thing was really painful.

He kept the incident from his wife, Lauren Hashian, to avoid undue worry before a diagnosis was confirmed.

I didn't want to worry her before I knew if it was anything to even worry about.

The doctor did not provide an immediate diagnosis, acknowledging the possibility of testicular cancer and instructing Johnson to undergo an ultrasound test immediately after his "Jumanji" event.

So, I had to live with that for those 24 hours, not knowing. And I had to be on all day, joking around, making speeches.

Ultimately, the ultrasound showed no signs of cancer, bringing relief. Johnson was diagnosed with epididymitis.

Understanding Epididymitis

The National Institute of Health defines epididymitis as an inflammation of the epididymis, which is a tubular structure located on the testis where sperm mature. It is a common condition often confused with testicular torsion, a surgical emergency, whereas epididymitis is typically managed medically.

Epididymitis can affect men of any age, though a majority of cases occur in males aged 20 to 39 and are frequently linked to sexually transmitted diseases. Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhea are responsible for approximately 50% of epididymitis cases in males under 39.

Causes can vary; in males prior to sexual maturity, it may stem from bacterial infections or inflammatory processes due to repetitive activities like sports (e.g., running, jumping). Rarely, chemical epididymitis can occur from exercising or sexual intercourse with a full bladder, leading to a retrograde flow of urine. Additionally, certain medications, such as amiodarone for cardiac dysrhythmia, or viral infections like the mumps virus, can also cause epididymitis or epididymo-orchitis.

Testicular Cancer vs. Epididymitis

The Mayo Clinic outlines key distinctions between testicular cancer and epididymitis. Testicular cancer most commonly presents as a painless lump or swelling in one testicle, though some individuals may experience a dull ache, a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum, or mild discomfort. Generally, it is painless.

Conversely, epididymitis is an inflammation typically caused by a bacterial infection. Its symptoms include sudden testicular pain, tenderness, redness, and swelling, sometimes accompanied by fever, chills, painful urination, or penile discharge. Acute pain is a hallmark of epidid Featured names

• Dwayne Johnson
• The Golden Globe
• Lauren Hashian
• National Institute