Hydroceles are defined as spaces housing clear fluids around testis that cause scrotal painlessness swelling. It is common for newborns and astronauts, where hydroceles arise due to an imbalance between the secretions and drainage of fluids. Most hydroceles are innocuous despite some underlying concerns, such as infectious or traumatic processes. The majority of hydroceles self-cure; however, treatment may be necessary for those that are persistent or very large. It does not affect fertility, and the visible swelling may cause discomfort and consistently be on the mind. Several cases or large hydrocele may require surgical treatment for symptomatic relief or consideration of more serious conditions.

Causes of Hydrocele:

• Congenital Development: Hydroceles develop at birth if the tunica vaginalis develops incompletely and prevents adequate fluid retention.
• Injury or Trauma: It is possible for a direct injury to the scrotal area to be associated with inflammation and hence lead to the accumulation of that particular compartment with fluid.
• Infection or Inflammation: Due to the infection and/or inflammation, there is sometimes excess fluid surrounding the testicle because of epididymitis and orchitis.
• Fluid Imbalance: More fluid is formed by the body than is able to drain properly hence there is collection of fluid causing swelling.
• Post-operative Condition: Hernia repairs and other operations render patients vulnerable to developing a hydrocele as a side effect of fluid retention.

Symptoms of Hydrocele:

• Pain- Free Swelling in Scrotum: The most common symptom of hydrocele is smooth, balloon-like scrotal swelling.
• Heaviness/Discomfort: Large hydrocele does give a feeling of weight and mild discomfort. Over Time increase in size: Swelling may get prominent through the day; especially in infants.
• Redness / Tenderness (Uncommon): Infection may sometimes present with a baggy warm red tender scrotum.

Hydrocele Treatment:

Most newborn hydroceles spontaneously resolve within one year. So also, small, painless hydroceles in adults do not require treatment. However, larger or persistent hydroceles may require aspiration, draining of fluid, or sclerotherapy, injecting into a cavity to prevent further fluid accumulation if symptomatic or complications arise. Hydrocelectomy is then performed for draining the fluid for permanent relief from symptoms. For the infectious cases, patients require antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medication. Regardless, all patients deserve medical evaluation to rule out any possible pathologic conditions like testicular tumors or hernias.