Health
Fact-checked

At TheHealthBoard, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What is a Hydrocele?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

A hydrocele is a sac of fluid which accumulates in a body cavity. These benign conditions most often occur in the testicles, although they can also arise in other parts of the body as well. A hydrocele itself is generally not cause for concern, although it can be uncomfortable, but it should be evaluated by a doctor to confirm that the swelling really is a hydrocele, and not something else. A doctor can also recommend treatment problems for people who are uncomfortable, or for individuals who find a hydrocele unsightly.

The underlying cause of most hydroceles is not known. When drained, these sacs contain serous fluid, such as that found in the lymphatic system. Some are congenital, caused by a small malformation which occurs during fetal development, while others may be associated with trauma, certain medications such as chemotherapy, tumors, or blocked lymph glands.

Hydrocele testis occurs when fluid fills the sac that surrounds a testicle.
Hydrocele testis occurs when fluid fills the sac that surrounds a testicle.

Hydrocele testis, as hydroceles in the testicles are known, is a not uncommon problem in babies and adult men. Like other hydroceles, it presents as a swelling which can be seen and palpated. Some people experience pain around the site, while others find it disconcerting. A doctor can confirm that the problem is a hydrocele by shining a light through it, or by using medical imaging such as ultrasound. These techniques can also be used to identify hydroceles in other regions of the body.

Fluid collected in the testicles can be drained by a doctor using a syringe.
Fluid collected in the testicles can be drained by a doctor using a syringe.

In the event that a swelling is indeed caused by the presence of a hydrocele, there are two treatment options. A doctor can choose to aspirate it with a needle, pulling the buildup of fluid out, although the sac may refill with serous fluid after being drained. Doctors can also remove the entire sac surgically, preventing the recurrence of the hydrocele. Surgical removal may be recommended if a doctor is concerned about recurrence of the fluid buildup.

An ultrasound exam can help to confirm the presence of a hydrocele.
An ultrasound exam can help to confirm the presence of a hydrocele.

Unusual swellings and changes in the body's texture and shape are definitely a cause for concern, because there are a number of potential causes for physical changes, ranging from a benign hydrocele to a fast-moving malignant tumor. For this reason, people should definitely go to the doctor if they observe a change, so that the doctor can determine what is causing the change, and how to address it. Patients who have experienced hydroceles before may want to bring them to the attention of the doctor, so that he or she is aware of the patient's history when evaluating the situation.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a TheHealthBoard researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a TheHealthBoard researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

nextcorrea

@Ivan83 - I've been through the surgery myself. The recovery times is kind of long, I didn't get back to feeling like myself for over a month, but I have had no lasting problems.

Its is actually a pretty common surgery and doctors have a lot of expertise in this area. I can understand your concern for your father but you really have nothing to worry about. I'm sure that he is going to be fine.

Ivan83

My dad is having surgery to fix a hydrocele in March. I was not there when the symptoms hit him but from what my mom says it was pretty scary.

My dad very rarely gets sick but apparently one day he just felt awful, the kind of awful where you just want to lie there and not talk to anyone. His stomach became distended and my mom says it looked like he was pregnant. He went to the hospital and spent two days there.

The doctors were able to relieve the symptoms but surgery is required to make sure that they don't return. Its not a major surgery, but anytime you operate on the intestinal system there is a risk.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Hydrocele testis occurs when fluid fills the sac that surrounds a testicle.
      By: peterjunaidy
      Hydrocele testis occurs when fluid fills the sac that surrounds a testicle.
    • Fluid collected in the testicles can be drained by a doctor using a syringe.
      By: Sebastian Kaulitzki
      Fluid collected in the testicles can be drained by a doctor using a syringe.
    • An ultrasound exam can help to confirm the presence of a hydrocele.
      By: grki
      An ultrasound exam can help to confirm the presence of a hydrocele.
    • The underlying cause of most hydroceles is unknown.
      By: jovannig
      The underlying cause of most hydroceles is unknown.
    • Swelling in the testicles may be a symptom of hydrocele testis.
      By: Tyler Olson
      Swelling in the testicles may be a symptom of hydrocele testis.
    • A hydrocele may be removed surgically.
      By: naypong
      A hydrocele may be removed surgically.