What is varicocele?
A varicocele pronounced as VAR-ih-Koe-seel is the enlargement of veins in the scrotum (a loose bag that holds the testicles) in males. A varicocele is similar to varicose veins that arise in the legs.
Varicoceles are a common root for low sperm production and decreased sperm quality, which can lead to infertility. About 15 percent of adult males and 20 percent of adolescent males are diagnosed with this condition.
It is most commonly diagnosed in the age group of males aged 15-25. Not all varicoceles lead to low production of sperms by the testicles. Varicoceles can also be the reason for the underdeveloped testicles or be responsible for their shrinkage.
What are the causes of varicocele?
The exact cause/s of varicoceles has not been identified. Varicoceles are formed in the veins housed in the spermatic cord that carries blood vessels and nerves to and from the testicles.
Although, the apparent reason for the formation of varicoceles seems to be because of the disruption of blood flow in the veins carrying blood from the testis to the heart.
The one-way valves in the veins, which carry this blood, malfunction and this leads to the pooling of blood in them, causing the veins to enlarge. This accumulation of blood over a period of time leads to the formation of a varicocele.
Varicoceles usually form on the left side. This could be because of the position of the left testicular vein.
What are the symptoms of varicocele?
Varicoceles generally do not produce any symptoms. In cases where the pain is reported, the pain:
- Varies from sharp to dull recurring pain in the scrotum.
- Can intensify during the course of the day.
- May increase with physical exertion over an extended period of time
- Relieves when lying on the back.
- May even impair fertility.
Some of the physical symptoms include:
- A lump in either side of the testicles.
- Swelling in the scrotal sac.
- Large twisted visible veins of the scrotum also described as a "bag of worms" appearance.
What happens if varicocele is left untreated?
Varicoceles when left untreated can lead to complications such as shrinking of the testicles, also called atrophy, and also infertility.
Varicoceles might keep the local temperature in or around the testicle too high, affecting sperm formation, movement (motility), and function.
How is varicocele diagnosed?
The doctor will perform a physical examination of the varicocele by evaluating the scrotum. The doctor may ask the patient to stand to ascertain the varicocele, should it not be easily diagnosed.
Further ultrasound or CT scan may be recommended to measure the size and shape of the testicles. If there is any apparent anomaly, the patient will then further be evaluated for varicocele.
What are the treatment options for varicocele?
Treatment may not be necessary at all. However, if varicoceles cause pain, swelling, testicular atrophy, or infertility then treatment is required. There are no medications that can treat varicocele. Given below are some of the treatments available:
