How to treat scrotal edema

Scrotal edema can be improved by elevating the scrotum, alternating cold and hot compresses, drug treatment, puncture and drainage, and surgical treatment. Scrotal edema may be related to orchitis, varicocele, trauma, lymphatic drainage disorder, heart failure and other factors. It usually manifests as tightness of the scrotal skin, swelling, pain and other symptoms.

1. Elevate the scrotum

Elevating the scrotum when lying on your back can help reduce local edema. You can use a folded towel to hold up the scrotum to avoid standing or walking for a long time. This method is suitable for mild edema or postoperative recovery period, and can be combined with wearing loose and breathable underwear to reduce friction.

2. Alternate cold and hot compresses

Ice packs can be used to relieve swelling and pain within 48 hours of the acute phase, for 10-15 minutes each time； In the chronic stage, use hot compresses to promote blood circulation. Be careful to avoid skin damage caused by too high a temperature or too long a time, and diabetic patients should operate with caution.

3. Drug treatment

For edema caused by bacterial orchitis, antibiotics such as levofloxacin tablets and cefixime dispersible tablets can be used as directed by the doctor.； For non-infectious edema, Maizhiling Tablets can be used to improve lymphatic drainage. Ibuprofen sustained-release capsules can be taken for a short period of time when there is pain, but a history of gastrointestinal diseases must be ruled out.

4. Puncture and fluid extraction

For hydroceles with high tension, doctors may perform puncture and drainage under sterile conditions to relieve compression. This operation needs to be coordinated with ultrasound positioning, and pressure bandage needs to be applied after the operation to prevent recurrence. If necessary, sclerosing agent such as lauromacrogol injection can be injected.

5. Surgical treatment

For refractory hydrocele or varicocele, hydrocele inversion, high spermatic vein ligation, etc. can be selected. Surgery usually uses spinal anesthesia or local anesthesia. The wound needs to be kept dry after the operation, and regular reviews are performed to eliminate the risk of infection or recurrence.

In daily life, strenuous exercise or heavy physical labor should be avoided, and activities that put pressure on the perineum such as long-term cycling should be reduced. Salt intake in the diet needs to be controlled to prevent water and sodium retention from aggravating edema, and high-quality protein such as fish and chicken breast should be appropriately supplemented to promote tissue repair. If the edema lasts for more than 1 week or is accompanied by symptoms such as fever and difficulty urinating, you must promptly go to the urology department for scrotal ultrasound and other examinations.