Diagnosing Swollen Scrotum: Don’t Guess Randomly
If you experience a swollen or painful scrotum, it could be a sign of varicocele. Learn the complete varicocele guide below.
Varicocele can be dangerous if not properly addressed. There are several causes that can lead to varicocele or enlargement of blood vessels inside the scrotum.
You can observe varicocele symptoms at home in several ways. Varicocele treatment depends on the severity of the symptoms you experience. For those seeking a complete varicocele guide, check out the following review.
Causes and Symptoms of Varicocele
Varicocele is a medical condition that can occur in men of any age. Varicocele usually affects the left side of the scrotum and can affect blood flow to the testicles. It is important for you to know that the cause of varicocele is not fully understood, but there are several factors that may contribute to this condition.
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One possible cause of varicocele is dysfunction of the valves in the spermatic cord, which is a group of tissues that support and provide nutrition to the testicles. When these valves do not function properly, blood can accumulate in the testicular blood vessels, leading to swelling over time.
Although some people with varicocele may not experience any symptoms, others may notice certain signs indicating the presence of this condition. Common varicocele symptoms include:
Pain or discomfort. Varicocele can cause mild pain or discomfort in the scrotal area. The severity of pain may vary from person to person.
Swelling. Enlarged blood vessels can cause swelling in the testicles or scrotum. This swelling may be more noticeable when you stand or sit for long periods. You may also feel a sensation of heat in the affected area.
Changes in testicle size. In some cases, varicocele may cause changes in the size or shape of the testicles due to varicocele. The affected testicle may appear smaller or feel heavier.
Visible blood vessels. Dilated blood vessels may be palpable above the scrotum and resemble a cluster of twisted blood vessels.
Accurate Diagnosis of Varicocele
To diagnose varicocele, the doctor will perform several physical examinations and a series of tests to confirm the presence of this condition and determine its severity. The diagnostic process may involve:
Medical History
In the initial examination, the doctor will inquire about your medical history, including symptoms experienced and factors that may affect reproductive health.
Physical Examination
Next, the doctor will perform a physical examination of your scrotum and testicles to check for signs of varicocele. This examination may include palpation in various positions, such as during the Valsalva maneuver.
Pelvic Ultrasound
Ultrasonography (USG) may be performed in the pelvic area, which is a non-invasive imaging test that provides detailed visualization of blood vessels around the scrotum and testicles. This helps the doctor confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of varicocele.
Semen Analysis
If varicocele raises concerns about fertility, a semen analysis may be performed. This test evaluates the quantity, shape, and movement of sperm produced, providing insight into the impact of varicocele on reproductive function.
Blood Tests
Blood tests may be conducted to measure hormone levels, including follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and testosterone. These tests help evaluate the effects of varicocele on reproductive hormone function. Once the diagnosis is confirmed, the doctor will discuss treatment options for you based on the severity of varicocele and associated symptoms or fertility concerns.
Treatment Options for Varicocele
The treatment for the varicocele you are experiencing will depend on the severity of the condition and whether it causes significant symptoms or affects fertility. Available varicocele treatment options include:
No Treatment Needed
If the varicocele does not cause troublesome symptoms or affect fertility, the doctor may recommend a conservative approach with regular monitoring to ensure no progression or complications.
Lifestyle Changes
You may be asked to make lifestyle changes to help alleviate symptoms associated with varicocele. Avoiding activities that worsen discomfort, such as wearing tight underwear or standing for long periods.
Ice Compression
Applying ice or an ice pack to your scrotum can help reduce pain or discomfort. It’s important to wrap the ice pack in cloth to protect the skin from direct contact.
Pain Medication
The doctor may prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or naproxen to help reduce pain and inflammation in your scrotum. However, it is advisable to consult with a doctor before taking any medication.
Surgical Intervention (Varicocelectomy)
If the varicocele causes significant symptoms or affects your fertility, surgical treatment known as varicocelectomy may be recommended. During this procedure, the affected blood vessels of the varicocele will be tied off or surgically removed to redirect blood flow to healthy vessels.
Non-Surgical Procedures
In some cases, varicocele can be managed through non-surgical procedures performed by interventional radiologists. One such procedure is embolization, which involves closing off the affected blood vessels using coils or a liquid agent.
Remember that you cannot determine your own treatment options; treatment depends on various factors, including the severity of the varicocele, the presence of symptoms, and its impact on fertility.
Seeking Prompt Medical Assistance
If you experience symptoms such as pain, discomfort, swelling, changes in testicle size, or if you have concerns about fertility, it is advisable to consult a doctor promptly. Additionally, if you have a family history of varicocele or fertility issues, seeking medical evaluation is crucial.
Regular physical examinations and careful observation of any changes in the scrotum are key to detecting varicocele early. Early detection allows for more effective management and prevents potential complications associated with this condition.
If you have noticed worrisome symptoms, promptly schedule an appointment with a specialist andrologist. Remember not to ignore any changes or symptoms in your scrotum.
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This article has been medically reviewed by Dr. Chitra Fatimah.
Source:
- Paick, S., & Choi, W. (2019). Varicocele and Testicular Pain: A Review. The World Journal of Men’s Health, 37(1), pp. 4–11. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6305863/
- Chung, J., & Lee, S. (2018). Current Issues in Adolescent Varicocele: Pediatric Urological Perspectives. The World Journal of Men’s Health, 36(2), pp. 123–31. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5924953/
- American Urological Association (2020). Urology A–Z. Varicocele.
- Johns Hopkins Medicine (2020). Conditions and Diseases. Varicocele.
- Cleveland Clinic (2020). Disease & Conditions. Varicocele.
- Mayo Clinic (2020). Diseases & Conditions. Varicocele.
