Varicoceles are a common but non-life-threatening condition affecting about 15% of adult men, often going unnoticed or without complications. This condition occurs when valves in the veins within the scrotum fail to prevent blood backflow, causing blood to collect in the scrotum. While not inherently dangerous, varicoceles may contribute to low sperm production, reduced sperm quality, and infertility, as well as potentially decreased testosterone production and scrotal discomfort. Varicoceles are easily diagnosed and treated, usually only requiring attention when concern arises over these associated issues.
While numerous theories exist, medical experts agree that varicoceles cause the veins to carry warm blood from the abdomen down to the testis. Generally, the testis functions properly at around three degrees below the average body temperature. As such, warmblood can affect the testis’ ability to produce testosterone and sperm.
Most often, varicoceles have no symptoms or signs. However, the condition may rarely cause pain. When it does cause pain, common pain-related varicocele symptoms may appear including:
Over time, varicoceles may become more enlarged and become noticeable. Varicoceles are often
described as looking like a “bag of worms.” This condition may also cause a swollen testicle, most often on the left side.
While researchers have not found an exact cause for varicoceles, doctors agree that the condition forms when there is a problem with blood flow in the spermatic cord. The problem develops when the valves in the veins do not function properly and allow blood to flow back. As a result, blood pools in the veins causing them to dilate. While the condition is common in adults, it can also develop in teens during puberty. The testicles usually require more blood than usual during this growth cycle.
Common complications associated with varicoceles include:
Medical practitioners are not sure of the leading cause of varicoceles. However, doctors agree that the condition forms when there is a problem with blood flow in the spermatic cord. The problem develops when the valves in the veins do not function properly and allows blood to flow back. As a result, blood pools in the veins causing them to dilate. When the condition is common in adults, it can also develop in teens during puberty. The testicles usually require more blood than usual during this growth cycle. This condition can lead to problems in the veins, preventing the blood from flowing where it should.
Unfortunately, although the condition is not life-threatening, it can also lead to several unpleasant complications.
The testicles are made of sperm-producing tubules. Varicoceles damage these tubules, making the testicles soften and shrink.
The condition also causes the local temperature around or in the testicles to be too high, affecting sperm formation.
During your diagnostic process, one of our skilled doctors will likely employ two techniques:
A thorough physical examination may reveal a non-tender mass above the testicles. When the mass is
large enough, it feels like a bag of worms. When the varicocele is small, the doctor might request you to stand, take a deep breath and hold it while you bear down. This technique will help the doctor to detect any abnormal veins enlargement.
A scrotal ultrasound test uses high-frequency sound waves to create a precise image of the structure of the scrotum. The test is also helpful in helping the doctor rule out other reasons that could be causing the problem in the scrotum.
Pedes Orange County offers comprehensive treatment options for varicoceles. Our physicians work with you on an individual basis to ensure you receive the care you need for your specific condition. We encourage you to learn more about our varicocele treatment options below.
Take the first step toward a healthier and happier life today. Call Pedes Orange County in Irvine, CA, (949) 387-4724 to make an appointment with one of our skilled physicians or contact our friendly staff online at your convenience for more information about our varicocele treatments. We look forward to serving you.
The physicians at Pedes Orange County devote their lives to saving limbs and minimizing pain. Our conveniently located, state-of-the-art facility is designed for your comfort and utilizes cutting-edge technology to provide minimally invasive treatments. Our vascular surgeons and vascular specialists are board-certified and some of the best in Southern California. Personable staff members make every visit a positive experience, with short wait times and an efficient, streamlined process that ensures you leave feeling educated and confident that you are in good hands.
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Pedes Orange County offers quality care and treatment practices for varicoceles and benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH). Don’t suffer in silence any longer; visit our facilities and engage with some of the leading vascular surgeons and vascular specialists who take time to engage with you and curate the proper treatment, care, and management for all varicoceles and BPH.
Advanced ultrasound-guided examination techniques will be used to visualize the veins, arteries, or both, in your legs. This is often used in the diagnostic process to detect the presence and extent of disease.
Once we review the results of your diagnostic tests, our physicians will collaborate with you to develop a personalized treatment plan, ensuring the best course of treatment for your specific condition.
Your treatment plan will be personalized to you and your individual needs. At Pedes, we specialize in minimally invasive procedures and nonsurgical treatments, all of which are performed by our dedicated vascular physicians within the comfort of our state-of-the-art facility.
We ensure our patients receive continuous care and support with regular follow-up visits. Each follow-up visit is scheduled at the time of your in-office appointment. Should you have a concern between
appointments, we encourage you to call our office and get scheduled at any time.
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