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What Is Varicocele? And What Problems Can It Cause! Everything About Varicocele

Dr. Yogesh Kaje, a consultant urologist and andrologist at Sahyadri Hospital, Pune, discusses varicocele, a common issue faced by men.

Dr. Yogesh Kaje, a consultant urologist and andrologist at Sahyadri Hospital, Pune, discusses varicocele, a common issue faced by men.

Varicocele refers to the enlargement of the veins in the scrotum, which supply blood to the testes. Generally, the testes receive blood from one or two arteries, while four to six veins carry impure blood back to the body. In varicocele, the diameter of these veins increases, leading to their dilation.

The testes are located outside the body for a specific reason: their temperature needs to be approximately two degrees Celsius lower than the body’s temperature to facilitate optimal sperm production. However, if the veins become dilated, the temperature of the testes can match that of the body, leading to increased heat, which is known as varicocele.

If a man has a significant varicocele, he may experience various problems, including:

• Testicular Pain: Discomfort or pain in the affected testis.
• Size Discrepancy: The affected testis may become smaller compared to the other.
• Decreased Semen Quality: Increased temperature can lead to a reduction in sperm parameters, potentially resulting in infertility.
• Hormonal Issues: Elevated temperatures may decrease testosterone levels, leading to a reduced libido and impaired sexual performance.

If there is swelling in the testes, it is advisable to consult a nearby urologist. The urologist will perform a physical examination and may refer the patient for an ultrasound to diagnose varicocele accurately. They may also recommend a semen analysis.

Not every case of varicocele requires surgery. In mild cases, rest, wearing a scrotal support, and applying ice may be sufficient. However, if the varicocele is severe, a microsurgical varicocelectomy is a common procedure. This is a minimally invasive operation that allows for same-day or next-day discharge.

Varicocele can result from various factors, including prolonged standing, excessive cycling, heavy lifting, and prolonged sitting.

Dr. Yogesh Kaje encourages those experiencing symptoms of varicocele to consult a nearby urologist. Sharing this information can help others who may benefit from understanding this condition.