Hydrocele

Overview

A healthcare provider can diagnose a hydrocele in a child or adult. They’ll ask questions about your symptoms and perform a physical examination.

During the physical exam, the provider may apply pressure to the groin area or ask you to cough to see how the swelling changes. They may shine a light through your scrotum to highlight any abdominal fluid in the area. A provider can diagnose most hydroceles from a physical exam alone.

To confirm their diagnosis, the provider may order imaging tests, including:

Pelvic ultrasound. A pelvic ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the soft tissues in your pelvis, including your testicles. It’s the most common imaging test providers order for a hydrocele diagnosis.
Computed tomography (CT) scan. A CT scan is a type of X-ray that takes cross-section pictures of your body — like slices — to create 3D images of your testicles. A CT scan is more precise than a standard X-ray.

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Symptoms

When to see a doctor

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Complications

Blood clots are a dangerous complication of atrial fibrillation (AFib). Blood clots can lead to stroke.

The risk of stroke from AFib increases as you grow older. Other health conditions also may increase the risk of a stroke due to AFib. These conditions include:

High blood pressure.
Diabetes.
Heart failure.
Some types of heart valve disease.

Blood thinners are commonly prescribed to prevent blood clots and strokes in people with atrial fibrillation.

Prevention

Healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of heart disease and may prevent atrial fibrillation (AFib). Here are some basic heart-healthy tips:

Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
Don't smoke or use tobacco.
Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Reduce and manage stress.

By Freedmans Health Clinic Staff

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