Are your or your baby's testicles swollen? Don't be afraid of hydrocele!

When you change your little baby's diaper or bathe him, if you suddenly notice that one or both of his testicles are swollen like a small water balloon, it's normal to feel a little scared and worried. Even an adult can feel a lot of pressure if they see this kind of swelling in their testicles. But most of the time, this is nothing to worry about. In medicine, we call this condition Hydrocele . So, let's talk about everything in simple terms today.

What exactly is Hydrocele?

Simply put, a hydrocele is a fluid-filled sac that forms around the testicles in the scrotum. The sac of skin behind your penis that holds the testicles is called a scrotum. This fluid-filled sac makes the testicles appear swollen. It can be on one side only, or on both sides. If it is on both sides, it is called a ``bilateral hydrocele''.

Although it can occur in men of any age, it is most common in newborn babies. It can also sometimes occur suddenly in adults for no apparent reason.

There are two main types of hydrocele:

Hydrocele can be divided into two main types. The way these two form is slightly different.

1. Communicating Hydrocele

2. Noncommunicating Hydrocele

Although these two names may seem a bit complicated when you hear them, the story is very simple. Let's see what the difference is between the two.

What are the symptoms of this?

The main and most obvious symptom of a hydrocele is a painless swelling on one or both sides of the scrotum . It may feel like a small ball of water when touched.

Other features are:

• The amount of swelling changes throughout the day (especially in the `Communicating` type).
• If the swelling is large, there may be some discomfort or a feeling of heaviness.
• There is usually no pain, but if the swelling becomes too large, it can cause discomfort when walking or sitting.

Do children have an effect on fertility?

No. Hydrocele usually does not affect fertility, so there is no need to worry about it.

Why does hydrocele form? Who is more likely to develop it?

As we discussed earlier, the causes of this condition may differ between babies and adults.

• Newborns: This is a condition that occurs in babies from birth. That is, as a normal part of development in the womb. As mentioned earlier, it is caused by the testicles not closing properly or by fluid remaining in the scrotum. About one in 10 (10%) newborn boys will experience this condition. But the good news is that it usually goes away on its own within the first year without any treatment.

• Adults and young children: About 1% of adult males develop it. They may be at risk for:
• Any accident or injury to the scrotum or testicles.
• An infection in the testicles or surrounding areas.

How does a doctor recognize this?

If you or your baby has a swelling like this, the best thing to do is see a doctor. The doctor will easily determine whether it is a hydrocele or not.

• Physical examination: First, the doctor will check for swelling. They may gently squeeze your groin area or ask you to cough to see if the swelling changes.
• Torch light examination: This is a very simple test. The doctor uses a small torch to shine light through the swelling in the scrotum. If there is clear fluid inside, the light will pass through and the entire swelling will glow red. This can confirm a hydrocele.
• Other tests: This can often be diagnosed with a physical exam. However, sometimes a scan, such as a pelvic ultrasound, may be recommended if there is any doubt about whether there is another problem.

What are the treatments for this?

Here's the best news: Most hydroceles don't require any treatment.

• For babies: A baby's hydrocele will go away on its own within the first year or two as the body absorbs the fluid. The doctor will just monitor it.
• For adults: Even small hydroceles in adults can heal on their own without treatment, if they are not causing any discomfort.

However, a person may need treatment in the following cases:

• If the baby's hydrocele does not improve after 1-2 years.
• If the swelling is very large.
• If there is pain or severe discomfort due to swelling.
• If there is a risk of developing an inguinal hernia with a communicating hydrocele.

The only treatment in this case is a minor surgery. This surgery is called a `Hydrocelectomy` . This involves making a small incision in the scrotum, draining the fluid inside, and removing the sac that collects the fluid. In the case of a `Communicating` type, the passage from the stomach is also blocked. This is usually a very successful and safe surgery.

When should we definitely see a doctor?

It's wise to see a doctor as soon as you notice any swelling in your testicles. However, if you have any of the following symptoms , seek medical advice immediately.

• If you or your child has severe pain with swelling in their testicles.
• If the swollen area is red and feels hot .
• If there are symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, or fever along with the swelling.
• If the swelling is sudden, sudden, and painful.

These symptoms may be a sign of a more serious condition that requires emergency treatment, such as testicular torsion. Therefore, it is very important to go to the nearest hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) as soon as possible in such cases.

Hydrocele, Swelling of the Testicles, Water in the Testicles, Hydrocele, Men's Health, Pediatrics, Testicular Surgery