Why is the baby's testicles swollen?

Testicular enlargement in babies may be caused by testicular hydrocele, inguinal hernia, testicular torsion, epididymitis, trauma, etc. It can be diagnosed through physical examination, ultrasound examination, blood test, etc. It is recommended that parents take their babies to the doctor promptly to avoid delays in treatment.

1. Testicular hydrocele

Testicular hydrocele is swelling caused by excess fluid accumulation in the tunica vaginalis surrounding the testicles. It may be related to congenital unclosure of the sheath process or local lymphatic drainage disorder, which manifests as unilateral or bilateral painless swelling of the scrotum and a positive light transmission test. Mild effusion may be absorbed by itself, but in severe cases, a sheath inversion operation may be required. Parents should avoid letting their babies cry violently or sit for long periods of time, and observe changes in swelling regularly.

2. Indirect inguinal hernia

Indirect inguinal hernia is caused by the entry of abdominal contents into the scrotum through an unclosed sheath. The mass increases when crying or coughing and shrinks when lying down. It may be accompanied by symptoms of intestinal obstruction. It needs to be treated by manual reduction or high ligation of the hernia sac. When parents discover a reversible mass in their baby's scrotum, they should immediately avoid strenuous activities and seek medical attention.

3. Testicular torsion

Testicular torsion is an emergency in which the blood supply is interrupted due to the rotation of the spermatic cord. Sudden severe pain, swelling, and elevated position of the testicle on the affected side, which may be accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Surgical reduction within 6 hours of onset of disease can save the testicles, but if it exceeds 24 hours, the probability of necrosis is high. Parents must send their baby to the hospital urgently if they find that their baby is crying abnormally and has a red and swollen scrotum.

4. Epididymitis

Epididymitis is mostly caused by bacterial infection and is common in children with urinary system abnormalities. It manifests as scrotal redness, swelling, heat and pain, abnormal urination, and may be accompanied by fever. Antibiotic treatment such as cefixime granules and amoxicillin-clavulanate potassium dry suspension is required. Parents should keep their baby's perineum clean and change diapers in time.

5. Trauma

Scrotal trauma may lead to testicular hematoma or rupture, often with a clear history of impact. Local bruising and swelling may occur. In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove the hematoma or repair the testicular albuginea. Parents need to prevent babies from climbing high places and pay attention to protecting the perineum when playing.

In daily care, parents should choose loose and breathable cotton underwear for their babies to avoid local friction. Pay attention to the symmetry of the scrotum when bathing. Do not apply hot compress if abnormal swelling or color change is found. The diet needs to be nutritionally balanced and proper vitamin C supplementation is required to enhance resistance. During the postoperative recovery period, ultrasound should be reviewed regularly as directed by the doctor, and strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least 1 month.