Can Exercise Cure Severe Varicocele?
Exercise can be done to help improve blood circulation in individuals with mild varicocele.
For men, varicocele is a health condition that affects the testicles. This condition occurs when blood vessels in the testicles become swollen. Varicocele is characterized by symptoms such as swelling, itching, and discomfort.
Typically, varicocele will cause symptoms like pain. Therefore, doctors may prescribe pain relievers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol. However, if the pain is excessive and leads to testicular shrinkage, embolization or surgery may be necessary.
But can exercise cure varicocele naturally as a method of varicocele treatment?
Can Exercise Cure Varicocele?
In cases of mild varicocele, treatment can be done by consuming symptom-relief medications or pain relievers. In certain conditions, wearing a testicle support garment may be necessary to minimize pressure on the scrotum.
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Exercise may not directly cure varicocele, but it can help improve blood circulation through activities such as walking, leg stretching, and swimming. Swimming is believed to help cool the testis temperature, reducing swelling. Additionally, swimming can strengthen leg muscles and improve blood flow. Ensure not to engage in overly strenuous exercises as they can worsen varicocele.
If the varicocele condition does not improve, it is recommended for men to consult a doctor for proper treatment.
According to Dr. Tiara Kirana, Sp.And, a specialist in andrology at Bocah Indonesia, not all varicocele cases require surgery. This depends on the underlying causes and symptoms.
“Indeed, not all varicoceles need to be treated. If, for example, it causes problems with sperm or severe pain, then it can be operated on. So, if there’s a varicocele but the sperm looks fine, there’s no need to worry too much,” said Dr. Tiara.
Can Varicocele Affect Fertility?
Another fact revealed by Dr. Tiara Kirana, Sp.And, is that varicocele can cause an increase in the temperature of the testicles. This condition can potentially disrupt the process of sperm formation.
“Varicocele is an enlargement of blood vessels, leading to heat in the testicular area and the presence of free radicals, ultimately interfering with the sperm formation process in the testicles,” Dr. Tiara explained.
Based on Dr. Tiara’s statement, varicocele can affect fertility if not promptly addressed. However, if sperm analysis results indicate that sperm quality is fine, there is no need to worry about the treatment procedure.
However, if varicocele causes pain and disrupts the sperm formation process, it should be treated promptly. If left untreated, this condition can make it difficult for couples to conceive.
How to Prevent Varicocele
To date, there is no way to prevent varicocele but this condition can be detected early through self-testicular examinations. Here are some self-examination methods:
Examine the shape of the testicles
The first method is to check the shape of the testicles. Healthy testicles should feel soft, with no lumps or masses. Testicles should be firm but not too hard. Typically, this condition can be assessed by gripping the back of the testicles.
Check the testicles after a shower
After taking a shower, normal testicles should be more relaxed and soft. Therefore, you can check them after showering.
Palpate with circular motions
One way to palpate the testicles is to use the thumb and fingers of both hands. Then, make circular motions on one testicle to check for lumps or swelling that feel like grains of rice on the testicle.
Examine the scrotum
Another examination method is to run your fingers over the scrotum to check for any rough sensations, changes in color, rashes, or other unusual conditions.
Be vigilant if there are unusual symptoms
If you experience pain, itching, or discomfort in the testicles, especially during intercourse, be cautious. These symptoms could be signs of an underlying medical condition.
That’s the explanation regarding the relationship between exercise and the treatment of varicocele. However, if you experience any of the above symptoms, it is advisable to consult a doctor for the right treatment and care. Never give up on your fertility program because there is always hope for success.
This article has been medically reviewed by Dr. Chitra Fatimah.
Source:
- Romeo, C., Santoro, G. (2009). Varicocele and infertility: Why a prevention? Journal of Endocrinological Investigation, Volume 32, pages 559–561, (2009).
- Hariri, A., et al. (2019). Prevalence and awareness of varicocele among athletes in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Res Rep Urol. 2019; 11: 21–27.
- Luigi, L.D., et al. (2001). Physical activity as a possible aggravating factor for athletes with varicocele: impact on the semen profile. Human Reproduction, Volume 16, Issue 6, June 2001, Pages 1180–1184.