Alert! Varicocele Symptoms Men Rarely Know!

Varicocele is an enlargement of the veins in the loose sac of skin that holds the testicles (scrotum). Varicocele is similar to varicose veins which may be commonly seen on the legs or calves. Varicocele in men is a common cause of low sperm production and decreased sperm quality which can lead to infertility. However, not all varicoceles affect sperm production. Varicocele can also cause the testicles to fail to develop normally or to shrink.

Please note, under normal conditions, the blood vessels in the scrotum (scrotum) cannot be felt. However, in people with varicocele, the scrotum will appear to contain many streaks due to enlarged blood vessels. Let's look at the full explanation in the following article:

Causes of Varicocele

Varicocele is a condition that occurs when the venous valves in the scrotum cannot close optimally and causes blood to settle behind the damaged valve. However, it is not known exactly what causes the venous valves in the scrotum to not close properly. In some cases, the cause of a varicocele is a blockage in the veins in the abdomen. Blood that is blocked in these vessels can put back pressure on the small veins in the scrotum and a varicocele results. In addition, this condition can also be caused by a kidney tumor pressing on the veins in the scrotum.

Varicocele Symptoms

Varicocele generally does not cause certain symptoms. In fact, this condition is often not realized by sufferers. Even so, some of the complaints that are usually felt by varicocele sufferers are as follows:

The appearance of a small lump that can be felt above the testicles.
Swelling or enlargement of the scrotum.
Pain that comes and goes and recurs.
Enlargement of the veins can be felt and many worm-like streaks appear.
Discomfort in the scrotum
Pain in the testicles that may worsen when standing or doing physical activity for a long time.

Varicocele Diagnosis

Some of the recommended supporting examinations in varicocele patients are as follows:

Ultrasound of the scrotum, to see the size of the blood vessels more clearly.
Measurement of testicular volume, to see the size of the testicular volume using an orchidometer.
Sperm examination, to detect fertility problems in patients.

Varicocele complications

Some of the complications that can occur due to varicocele are as follows:

Shrinkage of the testicles caused by a buildup of toxins in the blood.
Infertility or infertility which can cause a person to have difficulty having children.

How to Prevent Varicocele

Testicular self-examination is carried out in the following steps:

Feel the shape of the testes. However, Friends of Hermina need to remember the normal shape of the testicles so they can find out if there are changes.
Check the testicles after a warm bath. In this condition, the scrotum and testicles are relaxed and soft.
Make circular motions. Make circular motions using your thumb and other fingers to feel for lumps or swelling in the testicles.
Notice if there are any strange sensations, such as itching, heaviness, tingling, or pain.
Run your hand over the scrotum to feel for a scaly sensation, discoloration, or other abnormal condition. The reason is, changes in the scrotum can be one of the symptoms of a varicocele.

Apart from carrying out an independent check, Friends of Hermina are also advised to pay attention to the following:

Maintain health regularly by checking the condition of vital organs.
Avoid continuous exposure to chemicals, radiation or electricity.
Reduce the habit of soaking in hot water.
Avoid wearing pants that are too tight.
Increase consumption of foods rich in antioxidants, especially vegetables and fruits that contain various vitamins and zinc.
If Hermina's friend experiences a number of symptoms resembling varicocele, immediately visit Hermina Pandanaran Hospital to get the right diagnosis and treatment from our doctor.