Varicoceles are enlarged veins in the scrotum in which blood does not flow properly. They are similar to the varicose veins that can be found on the leg. Varicoceles most commonly occur on the left side of the scrotum in men between ages 15 and 25.

Varicocele Causes

While varicoceles are quite common, the cause is unknown. According to “Varicocele,” a Mayo Clinic article, “Many experts believe a varicocele forms when the valves inside the veins in the cord prevent your blood from flowing properly. The resulting backup causes the veins to widen (dilate).”


Symptoms of Varicocele

Varicoceles often produce no symptoms. Some men experience pain with certain types of movement such as lifting. Varicoceles may cause varying degrees of pain, from a dull throb to a sharp pain. The pain may increase over the course of the day and may worsen with sitting or standing.

Diagnosing Varicoceles

Ultrasound is the preferred method of diagnosing varicoceles. It has no known harmful effects and will not impact fertility. Varicoceles appear as large, black holes or tubes on the ultrasound image. The Valsalva maneuver is performed when the patient closes his mouth and nose and attempts to blow out air. During Valsalva, blood rushes into the veins and causes the ultrasound image to “light up” with lots of color. This confirms the presence of a varicocele.

Varicocele Treatment

Varicoceles are only treated when they cause pain, infertility, or testicular atrophy. Surgery is performed to close the affected vein in an attempt to reroute blood into the normal veins. According to the Mayo Clinic, varicocele repair could cause fluid to build up around the testicles, damage an artery, or increase the risk of future varicoceles.

Varicoceles are not serious, although they may be aggravating. Testing for varicocele is easy and painless, and repair can be a relatively simple procedure.

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