A varicocele is a mass of swollen veins in the male
scrotum. The scrotum is the sack around the testicles. It
not only protects the testicles, but also keeps the
testicles slightly cooler than the rest of the body for
optimum sperm development.
Varicoceles develop during puberty in some men, usually appearing
between the ages of 13 and 20.
Sometimes the valves that keep the blood flowing
through the testicles in one direction become defective.
When this occurs, the blood builds up and the veins swell.
What
are the symptoms?
A varicocele usually produces no symptoms, but can
cause a feeling of heaviness or discomfort in the affected
testicle. In some, however, the varicocele prevents blood
from draining properly from the testicles. When this
occurs, the temperature in that area increases, which can
interfere with sperm production and cause problems with
male fertility. Varicoceles are most often found in the
left testicle, but can also occur in the right, or both. A
varicocele can retard the growth of the affected testicle,
causing it to be slightly smaller than the other.difficult
to get to the bathroom at a reasonable pace. There is no
problem with the urinary system.
How
is it diagnosed?
A varicocele feels like a bag of worms, and can be felt
during a testicular exam.
What
is the treatment?
A varicocele usually requires no treatment. If you have
some discomfort, your doctor may prescribe some type of
anti-inflammatory medication to relieve the pain and
swelling. It may also help to wear an athletic support
garment. However, if the varicocele is extremely
uncomfortable or accompanied by fertility problems, your
doctor may recommend surgery. During the surgery, a
specialist called a urologist will tie off the swollen
veins, which will redirect the blood flow to other veins
and allow the varicocele to shrink. You will be able to go
home the same day. You can relieve swelling after surgery
with ice packs and by wearing an athletic support garment.
Self-care
tips
There is no known way to prevent a varicocele. It is
important to have regular physical examinations, which
include a testicular exam, so your doctor can discover and
monitor this condition.
This information has been designed as a comprehensive and quick reference
guide written by our health care reviewers. The health information written
by our authors is intended to be a supplement to the care provided by your
physician. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for
professional medical advice.
