A hydrocele is a swelling in the scrotal sac caused by the accumulation of fluid. Females may also on occasion, develop a hydrocele. This happens due to an accumulation of fluid in the labia majora but is rare and usually of less concern than hydroceles that affect males. This article will deal primarily with testicular hydroceles since almost all cases affect males.
During the normal development of a boy, the testicles descend from the abdomen to the scrotum via a tube known as the process vaginalis. Normally, the tube closes off, but in the case of hydroceles it remains open allowing abdominal fluid to drain into the scrotum causing it to swell.
Hydroceles are of two types and may involve either one or both testicles. Communicating hydroceles are usually present at birth and are caused by the failure of the process vaginalis to close off completely. This results in abdominal fluid seeping into the testicles, resulting in swelling. Communicating hydroceles are usually small at the time of sleeping and grow in size during the day because of the effect of gravity. Actions such as coughing or crying that increase pressure on the abdomen can also result in increased swelling.
Non-communicating hydroceles may be present at birth or may develop as a boy grows older. In this type of hydrocele, the end of the process vaginalis has closed off completely. The fluid accumulation in the scrotal sac is due to fluid created within the lining of the process vaginalis that is unable to drain properly. This type of hydrocele is usually of a fixed size and remains unaffected by gravity or abdominal pressure.
Hydroceles that are present at birth usually go away after a few months. Other causes of hydroceles include:
If you or your child has a swelling in the scrotum, then you should consult your doctor immediately. A diagnosis of hydrocele in the testis will be made after your doctor makes a physical examination which will show a swollen scrotum. The size of the swelling may increase when pressure is applied on the abdomen.
To confirm the diagnosis, the doctor may perform a test known as transillumination. During this test, an otoscope is placed against the scrotum which is then illuminated. The fluid accumulation can usually be seen clearly. On rare occasions your doctor may require an imaging test such as an ultrasound scan or an x-ray performed on the scrotum. Surgical exploration may also be required to confirm a diagnosis of hydrocele when it has been caused by some other disease.
Since hydroceles are usually not dangerous, they will only require treatment if they cause acute discomfort or for cosmetic reasons. However, hydroceles resulting from inguinal hernias should be operated upon without delay. Hydroceles that do not subside within a few months may also require surgery. The standard form of treatment in these cases is a procedure known as a hydrocelectomy. It is a relatively straightforward procedure with a high rate of success. There are some suggested home remedies for hydrocele but these have not been studied to prove their efficacy.
Consult your doctor before attempting any of these home remedies. They include:
Reference
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