what causes hydrocele in adults

Hydrocele is a condition where fluid accumulates in the scrotum, causing one of the testicles to look larger than the other. In newborns, hydroceles are common and often go away without treatment by age 1. However, older children, teenagers, and adults can also develop hydroceles due to an injury or inflammatory infection within the scrotum. Inflammation may be caused by an infection in the testicle or in the small, coiled tube at the back of each testicle. Other causes of hydrocele in adults include swelling or injury of the testicle or epididymis. In most cases, the cause of hydrocele is unknown. Hydroceles are usually harmless and may not require treatment if they do not cause any symptoms. However, if the hydrocele causes discomfort or pain, surgery may be needed to remove the fluid-filled sac.