Varicocele one of the most common health problems among the causes of infertility in menis a vascular disease that occurs when the veins in the testicles dilate. This condition, which usually progresses painlessly, can negatively affect sperm quality and production in the long term. Therefore, early diagnosis and treatment is very important.
So what exactly is varicocele, why does it occur and what symptoms does it present itself with? If you have recently been experiencing discomfort in the testicular area and are having difficulty having children, this article is for you. We aim to answer all your questions by discussing the causes, symptoms and current treatment methods of varicocele in detail.
In addition, we will explain step by step what you should pay attention to in order to be armed with the right information and take control of your health.m will share. Let’s take a closer look at what varicocele is.
What is Varicocele?
Varicoceleis a vascular disease that occurs when the veins that feed the testicles become dilated and tortuous. This condition is seen in the scrotum, similar to varicose veins in the legs. Although it is more common in the left testicle, it can also occur in both testicles.
Normally, these vessels are responsible for carrying dirty blood from the testicles to the heart. However, due to deterioration in the valves of the veins, the blood escapes back and accumulates in the veins, causing them to dilate. This causes an increase in temperature in the testicles, lack of oxygen and, over time, impaired sperm production.
Varicocele is often asymptomatic and is discovered by chance during an examination. However, in progressive cases, pain, swelling in the testicles or infertility can be seen. Varicocele is one of the most common problems especially in men who cannot have children.
What are the Symptoms of Varicocele?
Varicocele is usually asymptomatic in the initial stage and is often discovered incidentally during routine urological examinations. However, as the disease progresses, some uncomfortable symptoms may appear. Although these symptoms vary from person to person, they may become more pronounced, especially after prolonged standing or physical activity.
Here are the most common symptoms of varicocele:
- Pain or discomfort in the testicles: It is usually a mild but constant pain. It may increase, especially at the end of the day, after standing for a long time or after exercise.
- Swelling or Veins in the scrotum: “Worm ball”-like vascular structures in the scrotum may be visible or palpable.
- Reduction in Testicle Size: Long-term varicocele can lead to shrinkage, especially of the left testicle.
- Infertility Problems: Varicocele negatively affects sperm count and quality, making it one of the most common causes of male infertility.
- Sensation of Heat Rise: There may be an abnormal feeling of warmth around the testicle. This is one of the factors that negatively affect sperm production.
What Causes Varicocele?
Varicocele is caused by structural disorders of the veins in the testicles. The valves in the veins are responsible for preventing blood from escaping backwards. However, when these valves do not function properly, blood pools around the testicle and the veins dilate. varicocele develops.
Why does this condition occur? Here are the main factors that trigger the formation of varicocele:
- Vascular Valve Failure: One of the most common causes. If the valves fail, gravity causes blood to pool around the testicle.
- Vascular Structure to the Left Testicle: The anatomical structure of the left testicle is different than the right. Since the vein on the left side is longer and connected to the kidney vein at a right angle, blood flow becomes difficult and therefore varicocele is more common in the left testicle.
- Genetic Predisposition: Individuals with a family history of varicocele or vascular structure disorder are more at risk of developing this condition.
- Physical Strain and Excessive Exercise: Prolonged standing, heavy lifting or frequent increases in intra-abdominal pressure can also trigger varicocele development.
- Hormonal Imbalances: In rare cases, imbalances in the hormones that control the blood vessels can cause vasodilation.
How to recognize varicocele?
Varicocele is usually asymptomatic in the early stages and can often progress unnoticed. However, varicocele can be clearly diagnosed with some physical symptoms and a specialist examination. A detailed evaluation is especially important for male patients who complain of inability to have children.
Assoc. Dr. Ömer Bayrak ‘s diagnosis, both the patient’s observations and detailed examinations by the urologist are very effective in the diagnosis of varicocele.
How is Varicocele Diagnosed?
1. Personal Observations and Symptoms
Patients usually present with the following symptoms:
- Swelling or prominent vasculature in the scrotum
- Increased testicular pain after exercise
- Feeling of shrinkage in the left testicle
- Infertility or reduced sperm quality
2. Physical Examination
Assoc. Dr. Ömer Bayrak usually performs the physical examination with the patient standing up. This position makes it easier to feel the enlarged veins. In some cases, the Valsalva maneuver, which increases intra-abdominal pressure, can make the varicocele more obvious.
3. Color Doppler Ultrasonography
Color Doppler ultrasound is preferred for definitive diagnosis. With this imaging, details such as the width of the veins around the testicle, blood flow direction and reflux (backflow) are evaluated. At the same time, the degree of varicocele (grade 1 – mild, grade 3 – advanced) can also be determined with this method.
How is Varicocele Treatment Performed?
The most effective and permanent solution in varicocele treatment is surgical intervention. Surgical treatment is especially preferred to improve sperm quality, reduce pain and relieve infertility.
The most common and successful method is microscopic varicocelectomy technique. In this method, the dilated vessels are found precisely with the help of a microscope and deactivated by ligating them. The success rate is high and the recovery time is very short.
Assoc. Dr. Ömer Bayrak , with its experience in microscopic surgery, offers personalized and effective treatment to its patients. After the treatment, a significant improvement in sperm parameters is observed and the possibility of having a child increases.
Frequently Asked Questions About Varicocele
Does varicocele definitely cause infertility?
No, it is not the case that every varicocele patient will experience infertility. However, sperm quality may decrease if left untreated. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can greatly increase the chances of having a child.
Does the sperm count improve after varicocele treatment?
Yes, there is a significant improvement in sperm count and motility, especially after microscopic varicocelectomy. The positive effects are clearly visible within 3-6 months after treatment.
Will varicocele occur again after treatment?
The risk of recurrence is very low with microscopic surgery. Assoc. Dr. Ömer Bayrak The success rate is very high with methods applied by an experienced surgeon such as a surgeon.
Does the postoperative recovery take a long time?
No, after microscopic surgery, patients can usually return to their daily lives within a few days. Because the stitches are small, recovery is quick and comfortable.
Does varicocele always have to be treated?
Not all cases of varicocele require treatment. However, if there is pain, testicular shrinkage or inability to have children, treatment is recommended. Very successful results can be obtained with treatment in appropriate patients.