Top 5 Varicocele Symptoms: Not to Be Ignored

A varicocele (VAR-ih-koe-seel) is an enlargement of one’s veins within the loose bag of skin that holds the testicles (scrotum). These veins tend to transport oxygen-depleted blood from the testicles. A varicocele does occur when blood pools in the veins rather than circulating efficiently out of the scrotum.

Varicoceles are usually painless but can also sometimes cause testicular pain, which can come and go. In a few people, a varicocele can cause infertility. If a varicocele doesn’t bother you, you may not need treatment.

A varicocele can indeed cause poor development of a testicle, low sperm production, or even other problems that can lead to infertility. Surgery meant to treat varicocele can be recommended to address these sorts of complications.

Often, they cause no symptoms at all. Yet, if the person does have any varicocele symptoms, they will fall into one of three groups.

Varicoceles are not life-threatening. Yet, a varicocele can be very serious if the affected person is trying to have a biological child.

Varicoceles can indeed affect fertility. Varicoceles can no doubt contribute to about 40% of all cases of male infertility. Yet, several people with varicoceles have no problems, like achieving pregnancy.

Medical experts do not understand what role varicoceles play in infertility. The temperature inside one’s scrotum may increase due to the buildup of blood in the person’s veins. The higher temperature affecting both testicles can affect sperm count or production.

Talking to a healthcare provider if you suspect having infertility helps. Fertility is the top reason why people receive varicocele treatment.

Larger varicoceles can feel or look like a bag of worms or spaghetti. They can cause mild discomfort, aches, or pains. Smaller varicoceles can be too small to see or feel.

A varicocele (VAIR-ick-oh-seal) is a common disorder that enlarges one’s veins in the scrotum. The scrotum is the pouch of skin behind one’s penis that typically contains one’s testes (testicles). Varicoceles are similar to varicose veins. Varicose veins do cause veins in one’s legs to swell and also lose their shape.

Varicoceles are usually painless but can also at times cause testicular pain, which can come and go. In many people, a varicocele can cause infertility. If a varicocele does not bother the person, then he may not require treatment.

Varicoceles are not life-threatening. Yet, a varicocele can be very serious if the person is trying to have a biological child.

Symptoms

A varicocele usually tends to occur on the left side of the scrotum and does often produce no signs or symptoms. Possible signs and symptoms can include:

• Pain: A dull, aching pain or even discomfort is more likely when standing or late in the day. Lying down does often relieve pain.
• A mass in the scrotum:  If a varicocele is considered to be large enough, a mass such as a “bag of worms” can be visible above the testicle. A smaller varicocele can perhaps be too small to see but is undoubtedly noticeable by touch.
• Differently sized testicles: The affected testicle can be noticeably smaller than the other testicle.
• Infertility: A varicocele can, of course, lead to difficulty fathering a child, but not all varicoceles tend to cause infertility.
• Systemic problems: such as male factor infertility, and also low testosterone levels.

When to see a doctor?

Annual wellness visits for varicocele symptoms in boys are important for monitoring the development and also the health of the testicles. It is important to schedule and also keep these appointments.

Several conditions could contribute to pain, swelling, or a mass in the scrotum. If you experience any of these, see your healthcare provider to get a timely and accurate diagnosis.

Conclusion

Varicocele symptoms can indeed affect fertility. Varicoceles can rather contribute to about 40% of all cases of male infertility. However, many people with varicoceles have no problems achieving pregnancy.