Hydrocele: Meaning, Types, Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
Hydrocele is a medical condition in which fluid gets accumulated in the thin sac that surrounds the testicles of the male reproductive system, known as the scrotum. This, in turn, leads to swelling in the scrotal region, which can be painful in some cases. It is a common problem that affects males of all age groups, but especially infants and older adults.
What is Hydrocele
A hydrocele is a medical condition in which fluid accumulates within the scrotum, which is the sac that holds the testicles. This buildup of fluid can cause swelling of the scrotum, leading to discomfort and pain.
Types
Communicating hydrocele
This type of hydrocele occurs when the communication between the scrotum and the abdomen is not closed properly during fetal development. In this case, fluid can move back and forth between the scrotum and the abdomen, leading to swelling and sometimes discomfort.
1
Non-communicating hydrocele
This type of hydrocele occurs when the scrotal sac produces more fluid than it can absorb. This leads to a gradual buildup of fluid and eventually, swelling in the affected area.
2
Causes
- Developmental abnormality
- Injury to the scrotum
- Infection or inflammation in the scrotal area
- Tumors in the testicles or the scrotum
Symptoms
- Swelling in the scrotal region
- Sense of heaviness in the affected area
- Discomfort or pain, particularly while standing for a long period
Diagnosis
To diagnose hydrocele, one needs to undergo a physical examination by a medical professional or a urologist. They may also recommend an ultrasound to rule out any other possible medical conditions.
DO's
Keep the affected area clean and dryWear supportive undergarmentsDONT's
Avoid lifting heavyweightsAvoid sitting or standing for long periodsTreatments
Hydrocele Treatment
The treatment for hydrocele can be both surgical and non-surgical. The non-surgical option includes draining the fluid through a needle, which can be helpful in reducing the swelling. The surgical option includes a surgical procedure known as hydrocelectomy. This method removes the sac containing the fluid under general anesthesia.
Risks and Complications
Some risks and complications associated with hydrocele include:
- Infection
- Recurrence of hydrocele
- Damage to the testicles
- Bleeding
Insurance coverage
Hydrocele treatment is mainly covered under health insurance. Most of the time, the insurer will cover a particular amount for surgical treatment of hydrocele. However, the amount to be covered under insurance depends on the type of policy.
It is important to know that medical treatment for hydrocele will not be covered under the insurance policy, it will only cover the cost or expenses of the surgical treatment, but to claim this, you will have to be hospitalized for 24 hours.
KNOW MORE ABOUT HYDROCELE
Hydroceles can occur in newborns, and in many cases, they go away on their own without treatment. However, hydroceles can also occur in adult males due to infection, injury, or other underlying medical conditions.
Treatment options for hydrocele depend on the severity of the condition. If the condition is mild, doctors may recommend watchful waiting, where patients are monitored but not given any specific treatment. In more severe cases, doctors may recommend surgery to drain the fluid and repair any underlying problems.
Glamyo Health provides the best and safest options for hydrocele surgery. Know our best urologist doctors and clinics. Contact us to get the advanced treatment at affordable prices.
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