Symptoms of varicocele
The symptoms of varicocele may include:
1. Visible or palpable swollen veins: The most common symptom is the presence of enlarged veins in the scrotum. They may feel like a bag of worms and become more evident when standing or straining.
2. Pain or discomfort: Some individuals may experience dull or sharp pain in the scrotum, which can vary in intensity. The pain may increase with prolonged standing or physical exertion and decrease when lying down or using scrotal support.
3. Testicular shrinkage: In some cases, varicoceles can cause the affected testicle to shrink or develop a smaller size than the unaffected one.
4. Infertility: Varicoceles can disrupt the blood flow to the testicles, causing an increase in temperature and reducing sperm production and quality. This can lead to infertility or difficulties in reproducing.
5. Testicular atrophy: In rare cases, severe untreated varicoceles can lead to the shrinking or wasting away of the affected testicle due to decreased blood flow and oxygen supply.
It is important to note that not all individuals with varicoceles will experience symptoms. In some cases, varicoceles are only discovered during routine medical examinations or fertility evaluations. If you suspect you have a varicocele or are experiencing any discomfort or abnormalities in the scrotum, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and appropriate management.