A diagnosis of varicocele is necessary to determine an appropriate varicocele treatment option. The doctor will perform a physical check on the testicles to check for a mass that feels like varicocele. A semen analysis test might be recommended by your doctor to detect testosterone levels (made lower due to varicocele). The doctor might even recommend an imaging diagnostic test like a scrotal ultrasound to determine the presence of varicocele. Book your Varicocele surgery through PharmEasy SurgiCare. Our Care Expert will help you in getting your diagnostic tests done through PharmEasy.
The testicles contain a cord called the spermatic cord. It carries blood to and from the testicles. The veins are supposed to carry blood only in one direction. However, if the valves in the vein do not function properly, it can lead to a backflow of blood in the region and cause varicocele. although there are no other well-defined causes of varicocele, other than a disorder in the veins in the testicle. Puberty causes a sudden growth spurt in boys which leads to an increased blood flow in the testicles, this can lead to varicocele for some boys.
Varicocele causes the formation of lumps that can be felt on the scrotum. This is due to the enlargement and entanglement of veins.
A swollen scrotum is one of the major symptoms of varicocele. The overflow of blood in the scrotum causes the scrotum to swell and look larger than usual.
There might be a dull pain felt on the scrotum caused by varicocele. Pain can worsen on exertion.
The veins in the scrotum can get visibly large and appear to be bulging if you are affected by varicocele.
Varicocele can be a cause of low sperm count and infertility in some cases.
Varicocele affects men and boys of all ages but may be more common in boys entering their teens. Unfortunately, doctors and experts do not know why exactly these veins start to malfunction. Hence, there is no known way to stop varicoceles from forming.
In rare cases, some men may find that their varicocele resolves over time. Others may experience that it gets worse. In most cases, varicocele is not a serious medical issue and will typically not require medical intervention unless it is causing symptoms.
Your doctor may be able to advise you on things you can do to stop your varicocele from getting worse or reduce the symptoms associated with it.