What causes hydrocele in adults?

Dear Deepak Saluja ji,

Yes, one-sided scrotal swelling with a feeling of heaviness can be due to a hydrocele. A hydrocele happens when fluid collects around the testicle. However, other conditions can also cause similar swelling, so an examination by a urologist is important.

What Causes a Hydrocele?

In adults, a hydrocele can develop because of

• Infection or inflammation around the testicle

• Injury to the scrotum

• Previous scrotal or groin surgery

• Inflammation of the testicle or epididymis

• Sometimes, no specific cause is found

A hydrocele usually causes swelling and heaviness rather than severe pain.

What Other Problems Can Cause Scrotal Swelling?

Swelling should not automatically be assumed to be a hydrocele. Other possible causes include

• Inguinal hernia

• Varicocele, which is enlargement of veins around the testicle

• Epididymitis or testicular infection

• Injury

• Testicular torsion

• A lump or other testicular problem

A scrotal ultrasound is commonly used to identify the cause.

What Treatment Is Required?

Treatment depends on the cause and severity.

If the hydrocele is small and does not cause discomfort, the doctor may simply monitor it.

If it is large, increasing in size, causing heaviness or discomfort, or affecting daily activities, treatment is recommended.

Is Surgery Required?

Yes, surgery can be done for a hydrocele when treatment is necessary. The procedure is called hydrocelectomy.

During hydrocelectomy, the surgeon removes or repairs the sac containing the excess fluid so that the swelling does not keep returning.

Needle drainage can remove the fluid temporarily, but the hydrocele may come back. Therefore, surgery is generally considered a more definitive treatment when the hydrocele is persistent or troublesome.

What Should You Do Now?

Because you have noticed new swelling and heaviness on one side, consult a urologist. The doctor will examine the scrotum and may recommend a scrotal ultrasound to confirm whether it is a hydrocele or another condition.

Do not try to drain or press the swelling yourself.

Seek urgent medical attention if the swelling is accompanied by sudden severe pain, redness, fever, nausea, vomiting, or rapidly increasing swelling. These symptoms can indicate a condition requiring immediate treatment, such as testicular torsion or infection.

How HexaHealth Can Assist You

We can connect you with experienced urologists and trusted partner hospitals for evaluation and treatment.

We can help you with

• Finding a suitable urologist

• Booking a consultation

• Guiding you about the required ultrasound or other tests

• Finding a suitable hospital for hydrocele treatment

• Coordinating surgery if the urologist recommends it

If you share your city, age, and whether the swelling is painful or painless, we can guide you regarding the appropriate next step.

Wishing you and your family good health always.
Warm regards,
Team HexaHealth