Varicocele is a common urological and male reproductive health condition. But, not many males are comfortable talking and seeking treatment for the condition. There are many others who are not aware of the condition. This piece of content is intended to educate you about the condition, its causes and symptoms, and the risks of complications that may occur if its treatment is delayed or compromised.
Varicocele is a common urological and male reproductive health condition. But, not many males are comfortable talking and seeking treatment for the condition. There ... Read More
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Varicocele is a condition of venous insufficiency where the veins in the scrotum (a skin-covered sac that holds the testicles) get enlarged due to poor functioning of the valves located in the veins. It is a common condition in males between 15-25 years of age and is prevalent among 15-20% of the male population, being the most common cause of infertility.
Varicoceles are caused due to vein abnormalities in the scrotum. The valves within the veins regulate blood flow to and from the testicles. Due to the abnormalities caused by a defective valve in the vein, blood circulation becomes irregular, causing the blood to pool. This results in an enlargement or inflammation of the veins in the scrotum.
This condition most commonly takes place during puberty, when the testicles are experiencing rapid growth. In about 85% of the cases, varicoceles are found on the left side of the scrotum. In rare cases, it can also exist on both sides of the scrotum.
Varicocele is a fairly common condition among males. In most cases, people might have no symptoms at all, which also serves as a reason for it to be left untreated.
There are certain cases where people are even unaware that they are suffering from a varicocele. But, it can be a matter of concern, usually after performing a strenuous activity/heavy exercise or after prolonged standing and sitting hours.
The signs that might indicate that you may need a treatment are as follows:
If you consult a urologist to get rid of your varicocele, he/she will carry out a physical examination of your condition, which might help the doctor to feel the non-tender mass above your testicle. If it is still not diagnosed, the urologist might use a procedure called of Valsalva maneuver, where you might be asked to stand, take a deep breath, and hold it while you bear down. Test
In this stage, the varicocele is not visible and can only be felt when the patient is straining, which is why the physician uses a Valsalva maneuver.
At this stage, the varicocele can be felt at rest. Although it is not visible, it can be detected without using a Valsalva maneuver.
If a condition of varicocele is left untreated, it can worsen over time, leading to an aggravation of the symptoms that can make it more difficult for you to carry on with your daily activities. Untreated varicoceles can lead to a variety of complications that can include the following:
A condition of varicocele does not lead to life-threatening complications and might not be an immediate medical emergency. However, it can possibly lead to a number of complications that include infertility and reduced testosterone production that can lead to problems like metabolic syndrome, osteoporosis, and diabetes.
If you are experiencing any of the signs and symptoms of varicocele and are aware that it is affecting your fertility or sperm production, you should right away consult a urologist without delay.
The cost of a varicocele treatment in India may range anywhere from ₹40,000 to ₹70,000. However, this cost should not be considered an absolute as it may vary from person to person depending on multiple factors such as doctor’s fee, type and location of the hospital chosen to undergo the treatment, cost of medications, and amount to be paid for diagnostic or other laboratory tests.
Most of the surgeries at Pristyn Care are covered under insurance. But insurance coverage also depends on the type of insurance you choose and the place you opt it from. An insurance team from Pristyn Care will check all your insurance papers and will let you know whether the treatment for varicocele can be covered under insurance or not.
Myth 1: Varicocele is caused by taking cold showers.
Fact: No, taking cold showers does not lead to varicocele. However, in certain cases, it might cause the scrotum to contract.
Myth 2: A varicocele is a rare condition.
Fact: Varicocele is a common condition. Between 10-15 percent of all men develop varicocele at some point in their life.
Myth 3: Decreased fertility is the only complication that can arise from a varicocele.
Fact: While infertility is the prime concern, varicoceles can cause other complications as well. They can be the cause of reduced testosterone production, which can lead to complications like metabolic syndrome, osteoporosis, and diabetes.
Myth 4: Lifestyle changes do not affect fertility.
Fact: Certainly not. Leading a sedentary lifestyle and smoking may have a significant impact on the semen parameters and sperm health of a man and can worsen the condition of a varicocele.
Myth 5: Varicocele is not dangerous and can be left untreated.
Fact: A varicocele is not usually life-threatening and might not even require immediate treatment. However, given the complications it can cause, it is always a wise choice to consult a urologist and seek proper treatment.
The fact is, there is no way to prevent a varicocele. However, you might be able to restrict the condition from getting worse by taking certain measures that include- maintaining good health, following a healthy diet, drinking enough water, and avoiding smoking. In order to make sure that your condition does not escalate any further, you should also avoid wearing tight-fitted clothes. Improving and maintaining the health of your veins can help you deal with the pain and discomfort.
You should consult a urologist to diagnose and treat your varicocele.
After surgery, the veins will no longer be connected to the rest of the body and will no longer cause pain or harm to sperm production.
Varicoceles in certain conditions might never require treatment. But, if it causes pain, swelling and discomfort, infertility or testicular atrophy, it would require medical attention.
Medications, home remedies, and other tips may be successful in providing temporary relief. But without proper treatment, it is highly unlikely that the varicocele will go away on its own.
Exercise is always the right approach to treat most of the diseases. However, in the case of varicoceles, it can actually worsen the scenario and inflict more pain and swelling. Performing yoga and kegel exercises can improve muscle tone, restore blood flow, and help alleviate the symptoms of varicocele.
Varicoceles are more common on the left side because of the anatomy of the body. The male body is designed in such a manner that blood flow to the left side is greater as compared to the right side. This increases the chances of left-sided varicoceles.
Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables, and including food like whole-grain bread, cereal, rice, pasta, low-fat milk, yogurt, cheese, and adding an adequate amount of protein into the diet can help in dealing with a varicocele.
