Experts explain ways to get rid of painful 'blue balls' you might face during No Nut November challenge

Here is how to get rid of the dreaded 'blue balls' as the 'No Nut November challenge' nears the end of its first week.

In case you somehow haven't looked at a calendar for the last couple of weeks, it's November - which has for some reason has been re-christened as the month in which men across the globe decide to forgo sex and masturbation.

We're now five days into No Nut November, which means anyone embarking on the 30-day abstinence challenge will now be well aware of the side effects.

And yes - we're talking about the infamous 'blue balls'.

Don't worry, your downstairs won't look like this (Getty Stock Images)

What are 'blue balls'?

If you've ever lost sleep at night wondering whether or not blue balls is a real thing or myth then look no further, as we're about to tell you exactly what the phenomena is.

Known medically as epididymal hypertension, blue balls is a condition in which a man experiences pain or discomfort when becoming sexually aroused without orgasming, which is caused by increased blood flow to the genital region. Symptoms can include a strange ache, a feeling of heaviness, or straight up discomfort in their testicles.

The skin may also get a slight blueish tinge, however, we're glad to report the rumours of your gonads resembling Papa Smurf are very much a myth.

Given how the condition is likely to cause you pain, the first thought of anyone experiencing blue balls - perhaps this is the reason why you're reading this - is most likely 'how the hell do I get rid of them'.

Fortunately for you, that's the next section of this article.

How to get rid of blue balls

The experts over at Verywell Health have kindly complied a list of a few different DIY ways in which you can banish the dreaded blue balls - some of which are more practical than others.

According to the guidance, the (second) easiest thing you can do to remedy epididymal hypertension is to jump in a nice cold shower, as cool water can help reduce any genital swelling.

There is a very simple way to be rid of blue balls, but you won't want to hear it (Getty Stock Images)

However if standing under a freezing shower sounds a little too painful, then you can always make do with a cold compress.

Next on the list is exercise, as working out can help divert the flow of blood from the testicles to other major muscle groups and around the body.

But you may look a little bit strange going for a run or hitting the gym if you're, ahem, still pitching a tent.

Should the above not the be to your fancy, taking anti-inflammatory painkillers will also help, however, it may be worth seeking medical advice first.

As for the most simple solution? That would be masturbation, which is unfortunately off the table until 1 December.