Understanding Hydrocele: Treatment, Symptoms, Causes, and Types

What is a Hydrocele?

A hydrocele is a condition where the scrotum holds an accumulation of fluids around one or both testicles. It creates a painless swelling that might seem like a water balloon under the skin. Although hydroceles are more common in infants, they can also occur spontaneously in adulthood.

How serious is a Hydrocele?

Typically, in many cases, hydroceles aren't severe or painful. They can be quite alarming due to the swelling they cause in the sensitive part of your body, but are usually harmless. However, hydrocele can be bothersome if large enough to cause discomfort while sitting or walking.

What are the types of Hydroceles?

There are two main hydrocele types are communicating and noncommunicating.

• Communicating Hydrocele Types: A communicating hydrocele maintains a fluid contact with the your abdominal cavity. During foetal development, if the opening between the abdomen and scrotum (processus vaginalis) fails to close, fluids can flow from the abdominal cavity into the scrotum, causing a hydrocele. If you have a communicating hydrocele, your scrotum may appear large or swollen and may change in size throughout the day.
• Noncommunicating Hydrocele Types: In a non-communicating hydrocele, the processus vaginalis seals off, but some residual fluid remains in the testicles around the scrotum. Non-communicating hydroceles can be present at birth or develop years later for no apparent reason. If you have a non-communicating hydrocele, it usually stays the same size or grows very slowly.

What are the symptoms of a Hydrocele?

The primary hydrocele symptom is swelling on one or both sides of your scrotum. Other hydrocele symptoms may include changes in swelling size throughout the day, discomfort or pain, and a feeling of heaviness.

Will a Hydrocele affect fertility?

A hydrocele usually does not affect fertility. It involves fluid buildup around the testicle, which generally doesn't interfere with sperm production or function. However, if you have concerns or experience discomfort, it is best to consult a healthcare professional.

What causes a Hydrocele?

Hydrocele causes fluid accumulation around the testicles due to inflammation, injury, or infection. Other hydrocele causes can be congenital factors or sperm umbilical cord obstruction. In adults, hydrocele causes may also stem from underlying conditions such as hernia or tumor.

Who does Hydroceles affect?

Hydroceles are more common in babies and infants but can also occur in adolescents and adults. Approximately 10% of newborns have a hydrocele that often clears up without treatment within their first year. Only about 1% of adults develop hydroceles, which tend to disappear on their own without treatment.

What causes a Hydrocele in adults?

In adults, a hydrocele is typically caused by fluid accumulation around the testicle due to inflammation, injury, infection, or blockages in the spermatic cord. Underlying conditions such as hernia or tumor can also contribute to the development of a hydrocele.

How is a Hydrocele diagnosed?

A healthcare provider diagnoses a hydrocele by asking about symptoms and performing a physical exam. They may apply pressure to the groin area or ask you to cough to see how the swelling changes. They might shine a light through your scrotum to highlight any abdominal fluid in the area. Most hydrocele diagnoses are made from the physical exam alone. To confirm their diagnosis, they might order imaging tests like a pelvic ultrasound or CT scan.

How is it treated?

Hydrocele treatment vary depending on severity and symptoms. Mild cases may resolve on their own without intervention, but if hydrocele treatment is needed, options include draining the fluid with a needle (aspiration) or surgically removing the hydrocele sac.

In some cases, medications may be prescribed to control inflammation or infection associated with hydrocele treatment. Consulting with a healthcare provider is essential to determine the most appropriate hydrocele treatment approach based on your individual circumstances.

What are the complications or side effects of Hydrocele surgery?

Hydrocelectomy is generally safe, but like all surgeries carries certain risks. This includes anesthesia risks, infection, swelling, bruising, scarring and recurrence of the hydrocele.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I treat a Hydrocele at home?

While you cannot treat a hydrocele at home, most cases resolve on their own without intervention. However, if you notice persistent swelling or experience discomfort due to a hydrocele's size, consult your healthcare provider promptly.

Will a Hydrocele go away by itself?

Yes, in most cases a hydrocele will go away without treatment. However, if the condition persists, a healthcare professional may recommend hydrocelectomy, a surgical procedure to remove the hydrocele.

Can a Hydrocele be prevented?

Hydroceles in infants cannot be prevented because they usually form during foetal development. However, in older children, adolescents, and adults, protecting the scrotum from injury can help prevent hydroceles. This includes wearing an athletic cup while playing sports or engaging in vigorous activities.

Are Hydroceles common?

Indeed, hydroceles are common in newborns, affecting about 10% of them. However, this prevalence decreases significantly with age as hydroceles affect only about 1% of adults.

Are Hydroceles cancerous?

No, hydrocele itself is not a form or precursor of cancer. However, if you notice persistent swelling or abnormal changes in the size of your scrotum, you should seek medical attention promptly.

Can Hydrocele surgery cause infertility, erectile dysfunction or low testosterone?

Hydrocele surgery is generally safe and does not usually cause infertility, erectile dysfunction, or reduced testosterone levels. However, like any surgical procedure, it does carry certain risks, including infection and recurrence of hydrocele.

Conclusion

Understanding and dealing with any medical condition requires reliable information and patience. As intimidating as terms like hydrocele, hydrocele symptoms or hydrocele treatment may sound initially, remember that they are manageable conditions with appropriate medical care and guidance. Prioritize your health and consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice and treatment options.

Consider Metropolis Healthcare's diagnostic services for trusted pathology testing and health check-ups. Their team of qualified technicians also offer at-home blood sampling for your convenience - processed at their state-of-the-art labs with results delivered online for easy access.