Hydrocele: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
When fluid accumulates in the thin sac that surrounds the testicles, causing them to swell, a condition called hydrocele occurs. It affects the scrotum, which holds the testicles. Hydroceles are usually painless and harmless, but they can sometimes indicate underlying problems or cause discomfort. The purpose of this blog post is to discuss hydroceles' causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
Causes of Hydrocele
A communicating hydrocele occurs at birth when the sac connecting the abdomen and the scrotum fails to close properly. A noncommunicating hydrocele also develops before birth, but the sac closes normally. This allows fluid to flow back and forth between the two areas. Some fluid remains trapped in the scrotum after birth, but some fluid does not get absorbed.
An adult with a hydrocele can develop due to injury, infection, inflammation, or tumor of the testicle or scrotum. These conditions can cause fluid to leak into the sac around the testicle or prevent it from draining.
Symptoms of Hydrocele
The main symptom of a hydrocele is a swollen or enlarged scrotum. There is usually no pain associated with a hydrocele, but it can feel heavy or uncomfortable throughout the day. The swelling may affect one or both sides of the scrotum. Other symptoms of a hydrocele, including fever, redness, tenderness, or discharge from the scrotum, may indicate infection or other complications.
Diagnosis of Hydrocele
The doctor will examine the scrotum and ask about the medical history and symptoms to diagnose hydrocele and rule out other possible causes, such as:
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Transillumination: This is a simple test that involves shining a light through the scrotum to see if there is fluid inside. A hydrocele will appear as a bright area, while a solid mass will block the light.
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Ultrasound: This is an imaging test that uses sound waves to create pictures of the scrotum and the testicles. It can help determine the size and shape of a hydrocele and detect any other abnormalities.
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Blood tests: These can help check for signs of infection or inflammation in the body.
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Urine tests: These can help detect any urinary tract infections or sexually transmitted infections that may affect the scrotum.
Treatment of Hydrocele
It is usually not necessary to treat hydrocele if it is small, painless, and does not interfere with daily activities. However, if it is large, bothersome, or causes complications, treatment may be necessary.
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Aspiration: This procedure involves inserting a needle into the scrotum and draining the fluid from the sac. It can provide temporary relief, but it does not prevent the fluid from accumulating again. Side effects include infection, bleeding, and scarring.
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Surgery: The sac containing the fluid is removed or repaired by making an incision in the scrotum or abdomen. Surgery can relieve hydroceles permanently and prevent them from recurrences. It is also necessary if the hydrocele is caused by a hernia or tumor. It is generally performed under general or local anesthesia and has minimal risks and complications.
Prevention of Hydrocele
There is no sure way to prevent a hydrocele from developing or recurring. However, some measures that may help reduce the risk include:
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Wearing protective gear during sports or other activities that may cause injury to the scrotum.
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Practicing safe sex and avoiding sexually transmitted infections that may cause inflammation in the scrotum.
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Seeking medical attention promptly if there are any signs of infection or injury in the scrotum.
Conclusion
A hydrocele is a common condition that causes swelling in the scrotum due to fluid accumulation around a testicle. Often it is painless and harmless, but it can sometimes be a sign of an underlying condition. A hydrocele can be diagnosed by physical examination and some tests. A hydrocele can be treated by aspiration or surgery if necessary. Avoiding injury and infection in the scrotum can prevent a hydrocele.
