Hydrocele Disease: Causes, Symptoms, & Treatment

What Is Hydrocele Disease?

A hydrocele occurs when fluid fills the sac surrounding a testicle, causing noticeable swelling. It can develop on one or both sides of the scrotum and is generally painless, but in some cases, it may cause discomfort, especially if the hydrocele is large.

Types of Hydrocele Disease

There are two primary types of hydrocele —

1. Communicating Hydrocele:

This type occurs when fluid from the abdominal cavity moves into the scrotum through a passage that hasn't closed properly. The size of the swelling may change throughout the day.

2. Non-Communicating Hydrocele:

In this type, fluid remains trapped around the testicle, causing consistent swelling. This can be present from birth, or one may develop it later in life.

Symptoms of Hydrocele Disease

The most common symptom of hydrocele is a painless swelling in the scrotum that feels like a water balloon. Other symptoms may include:

• A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum

• Discomfort or pain if the hydrocele is large

• Swelling that may vary in size over time

Causes of Hydrocele Disease

In infants, hydrocele is usually present at birth due to incomplete closure of the processus vaginalis, a membrane that connects the abdominal cavity to the scrotum. In adults, hydrocele can develop from an injury to the scrotum or as a result of inflammation caused by infection.

Risk Factors of Hydrocele Disease

Several factors increase the risk of developing hydrocele disease, including:

• Being a newborn (especially premature infants)

• Injury to the scrotum

• Infections, particularly in the testicular or scrotal region

• Previous surgery in the scrotal area

Diagnosis of Hydrocele Disease

A healthcare provider can usually diagnose a hydrocele with a physical examination. A common diagnostic technique is transillumination, where a light is shone through the scrotum to check for fluid. Imaging tests like ultrasounds may also be used to confirm the diagnosis or rule out other conditions.

Treatment of Hydrocele Disease

Most hydroceles in infants resolve on their own within the first year or two of life and do not require treatment. In adults, small hydroceles that are not causing discomfort are often monitored rather than treated. However, if the hydrocele persists or causes discomfort, surgical removal, known as a hydrocelectomy, may be recommended. A surgeon drains the fluid and closes the sac to prevent recurrence.

FAQs

1. Can hydrocele affect fertility?

Hydrocele usually does not impact fertility.

2. Do all hydrocele cases require surgery?

No, hydrocele usually goes away on its own, especially in babies. However, surgery may be required if hydrocele disease does not subside and becomes a persistent issue.

3. How long does recovery from hydrocele surgery take?

Most people can return to normal activities within a few days to a week after surgery, although full recovery may take a few weeks.