A varicocele is an enlarged vein in the testicles. It is common in men after puberty and usually occurs on the left side.
When a varicocele occurs, it can be quite painful to the affected guy. This pain can range from a dull, heavy sensation to a sharp, recurring pain that may worsen with sitting or standing or during physical activity.
The pain often resolves when the person is lying down. If the pain is severe, the doctor may prescribe ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help relieve it. The doctor will also likely recommend a scrotal support.
Most people with varicoceles have no symptoms at all, but they can become more pronounced over time and eventually cause discomfort or infertility issues. This is why a varicocele is diagnosed through a physical examination of the scrotum by a physician who specializes in the male reproductive system and urinary tract.
Symptoms of a varicocele include lumps in the scrotum, enlarged or twisted veins that can be noticeable and a heavy feeling or pain in the testicle area. This pain typically increases with sitting or standing and is most noticeable after a heavy activity.
If the scrotal mass is large enough, it can look like a “bag of worms” that is visible over the testicle. This is an indication that treatment is needed to prevent the varicocele from getting bigger and causing serious health problems.
Some guys will experience fertility problems, including a low sperm count and decreased sperm motility (movement) in the testicles. These problems can be very dangerous for a man trying to conceive and are often treated with surgery.
In addition, a varicocele can make it difficult for a man to produce testosterone and may lead to erectile dysfunction or reduced sexual virility. This can be extremely frustrating and debilitating for a man.
Other symptoms of a varicocele are a difference in the size and shape of one testicle compared to the other, a scrotal swelling, and sometimes even a change in the color or texture of the skin in the scrotum. This is called a “bag of worms” appearance and can be a warning sign that a varicocele is occurring.
A man with a varicocele should have annual wellness visits to monitor the development of his testicles. This will allow the doctor to check for any other problems that may be present.
Surgical procedures to treat a varicocele involve tying off the enlarged vein in the testicle and redirecting blood into normal veins. The procedure is usually done under local or general anesthesia.
It can take several weeks for the scrotal area to return to its normal appearance and function. After the procedure, a man will need to wear a scrotal support and use cold packs on the scrotum to reduce any swelling.
There are many different treatment options for varicoceles. Depending on the severity of the problem, a doctor can prescribe medication to manage any associated pain or discomfort and recommend scrotal support. Some patients will not need surgery at all and will recover from a varicocele through a minimally invasive technique called embolisation. This method involves using tiny metal coils to block the veins that are causing a varicocele. The procedure is safe, quick and effective in about 90 percent of cases.
