Hydrocele

A Scrotal and Testicular Condition

Overview

Hydrocele

There are two main forms of Hydrocele: Communicating and non-communicating.

  • Communicating Hydrocele

    Communicating Hydrocele: The testicles form in the abdomen prior to birth, then during normal development the testicles descend down a tube from the abdomen into the scrotum. When this movement is complete, the tube usually closes. When the tube does not close, fluid from the abdomen can collect in the scrotum, causing a communicating hydrocele. This condition is called “communicating” because the pathway between the abdomen and scrotum is wide open. A communicating hydrocele is typically bigger in the evening and smaller, or absent, in the morning as the fluid often returns to the abdomen after lying down.
  • Non-communicating hydrocele

    These occur when fluid stays inside a closed sac and is not gradually absorbed into the body. Men (especially over the age of 40) can develop non-communicating hydroceles as a result of an infection or injury to the scrotal area, or if blood or fluid becomes blocked inside the spermatic cord. Most non-communicating hydroceles, however, seem to occur for no apparent reason.

Treatments

Hydrocele Treatment

Urgent medical attention is necessary if sudden, severe pain or swelling occurs in the scrotum, particularly if it follows a recent scrotal injury.

Nebraska Urologists would provide an initial assessment which may include follow up with further diagnostic tests. Upon diagnosis of Hydroceles, one may require pain management followed by surgical removal. Depending on the case, this may or may not include an overnight hospital stay.

In this case our surgeon would make an incision in the scrotum or lower abdominal area to excise the hydrocele. Occasionally, hydroceles are discovered incidentally during hernia repair surgeries, prompting concurrent removal even in the absence of symptoms.

Your Visit

Learn about what you should bring to your appointment and locate forms, registration packets, and other patient resources.

Symptoms

Hydrocele Symptoms

Typically, the primary indication of a hydrocele is painless swelling in one or both testicles.

  • Hydroceles in Adults

    Hydroceles in adults may arise due to injury or inflammation within the scrotum. Inflammation may stem from infections in the testicle or the epididymis, the small coiled tube behind each testicle. This swelling may cause the scrotum to feel heavy, with discomfort worsening as the swelling increases. The size of the swollen area might fluctuate, being smaller in the morning and larger later in the day.

Although hydroceles are typically benign, they can sometimes signal underlying health issues:

  • Infection or tumor

    These conditions may impair sperm production or testicular function.
  • Inguinal hernia

    This complication can lead to severe health problems, potentially life-threatening.

DISCLAIMER: The symptoms listed are for informational purposes only and do not necessarily indicate the presence of a specific medical condition. It is important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Any decision regarding medical care should be made in consultation with your healthcare provider based on individual circumstances and medical history.

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Our urologists expertly diagnose and treat the full spectrum of urology conditions. Beyond their expertise, open communication and empathy guide our approach to patient care.

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