Varicocele

Men who suffer from low fertility, poor quality sperm, and pain in the scrotum may wonder what the source of their discomfort and frustration could be. For many men, the culprit for these problems and more could be a varicocele, or swollen veins on their scrotum.

• Varicocele is a condition in which men experience swelling of veins on their scrotums.
• Varicoceles can be easily remedied in most patients.

In many ways, a varicocele is similar to varicose veins found on people’s legs. However, while varicose veins mainly result in cosmetic issues, varicoceles can lead to infertility, pain, and poor sperm quality.

Because of how detrimental this condition can be to men who suffer from it, doctors may advise patients to undergo treatment. Proper treatment can eliminate pain and discomfort and help men regain their fertility and higher quality sperm.

Symptoms of Varicocele

Varicoceles presents with a number of symptoms that may interrupt one’s ability to live a normal and happy life. The most common symptoms of a varicocele include:

• Sharp or dull pain in the scrotum
• Scrotum pain that gets worse when the man lies down
• Scrotum pain that worsens as the day progresses
• Swelling of the scrotum
• A lump in the testicles
• Lowered fertility
• Veins in the scrotum that are swollen or twisted in appearance

If you suffer from any of these symptoms, you can see your doctor to be diagnosed with and treated for a varicocele promptly.

How is a Varicocele Treated?

A varicocele can be easily treated in many cases. The treatment involves a minimally invasive surgery that is performed on an outpatient basis under local or general anesthesia. Your doctor may perform it in his or her office, in a single day surgery clinic, or in a hospital.

During the surgery, your doctor will make a small incision in your lower abdomen. He or she will then locate the veins in the stomach that lead to the varicocele in the scrotum. Once those veins are found, the surgeon will cut off the blood flow to them. The varicocele will then shrink and disappear on their own.

The surgery takes less than an hour to complete. You may spend around four hours in the hospital or clinic recovering from the operation. After you are deemed stable enough to return home, you will be discharged.

Your doctor may tell you to spend the next day or two resting and avoiding heavy lifting and strenuous exercises. You also may be told to avoid driving. You can resume your normal activities and go back to work after one week after the operation.