Hydrocele & varicocele: what scrotal swelling really means.
Two common, harmless-sounding swellings with straightforward solutions — and one of them (varicocele) is worth checking if you are planning a family.
What are hydrocele and varicocele?
A hydrocele is a collection of fluid around the testicle, causing a smooth, usually painless swelling of the scrotum. A varicocele is an enlargement of the veins draining the testicle — similar to varicose veins in the leg — often felt as a "bag of worms", usually on the left side.
Symptoms to watch for.
- Painless scrotal swelling that slowly increases (hydrocele)
- Dull ache or heaviness in the scrotum, worse after standing long (varicocele)
- Veins that feel like a "bag of worms"
- One testicle appearing smaller than the other
- Difficulty conceiving after a year of trying
Sudden severe testicular pain is different — it can be testicular torsion, an emergency. Seek care immediately.
How they are evaluated and treated.
Diagnosis is usually simple: an examination and a scrotal ultrasound. When fertility is a question, a semen test gives clear answers.
- Hydrocele — small, comfortable ones can simply be watched; larger or bothersome ones are corrected with a short, simple operation
- Varicocele — no treatment needed if it causes no problems; when it causes pain, a smaller testicle, or an abnormal semen report, a minor procedure (ligation of the enlarged veins) usually improves the picture
Consultant Urologist, Andrologist and Robotic Surgeon. He offers surgical and non-surgical care for hydrocele and varicocele — including fertility-focused evaluation — at MEDICOVER Hospitals, Hitec City and LUX Hospitals, Gachibowli.
View full doctor profile →Frequently asked questions.
Does a varicocele always affect fertility?
No. Many men with a varicocele father children without any treatment. It matters most when there is difficulty conceiving, an abnormal semen report, or one testicle is smaller. A simple semen test gives a clear answer.
Will a hydrocele go away on its own?
In adults, a hydrocele usually does not disappear on its own. Small, painless ones can simply be watched; larger or uncomfortable ones are corrected with a short, simple operation.
Is scrotal swelling dangerous?
Most scrotal swellings like hydrocele and varicocele are harmless, but every new swelling deserves an examination — occasionally a swelling needs urgent attention. Sudden severe testicular pain is an emergency.
Get the swelling checked.
Request an appointment with Dr. Sreeniketh Reddy at MEDICOVER Hospitals, Hitec City or LUX Hospitals, Gachibowli.