What is Varicocele?
Varicocele refers to the abnormal dilation and enlargement of veins inside the scrotum, a skin pouch holding testicles. The left side of the scrotum is where varicoceles typically appear, though they can occasionally develop on either side. It is known to be the most common reason for poor sperm morphology, low sperm count, abnormal sperm morphology, and decreased sperm motility.
How is Varicocele Infertility Caused?
Testicles’ Temperature
The temperature of the testicles rises as a result of this problem, which has an impact on sperm development. Every degree the testicles warm up, the number of sperm drops by an estimated 40%. A low sperm count most frequently causes male infertility.
Sperm DNA Damage
This condition may harm sperm DNA. Men with this problem are more likely to experience DNA damage in their sperm than men without. Testicular infection, enlarged (varicose) veins in the scrotum, and improperly formed testicles can all result in defective sperm.
Lowered Testosterone Levels
Lower testosterone levels are associated with varicocele problem, which may cause a variety of long-term health issues and have an impact on sex drive. Lower semen quality is a result of this problem which prevents the development of high-quality sperm.
Reduced Semen Quality
When there is an imbalance between “free radicals” and antioxidants, the quality of the semen is reduced. Men with this problem frequently have this imbalance of elevated free radicals and low antioxidants. In such a case, semen quality will be typically impacted.
Varicocele Symptoms
Painless testicular lump
A painless lump in the testicle may indicate varicocele, a condition characterized by swollen veins in the scrotum.
Reduced sperm count
Varicocele can lower sperm production, potentially affecting fertility by decreasing the number of sperm in semen.
Reduced sperm motility
Varicocele can impair sperm movement, reducing their ability to reach and fertilize an egg.
Persistent pain in the testicles
Varicocele-related discomfort often presents as a dull, lingering ache in the testicles.
Testicle discomfort on a particular side
Varicoceles typically affect one testicle, leading to discomfort or a sense of fullness on that side.
Dilated veins that can be felt in the scrotum
Enlarged, twisted veins (varicose veins) are tangible beneath the scrotal skin in varicocele cases.
Heaviness or dragging sensation in the scrotum
Many with varicoceles describe a weighted or pulling feeling in the scrotum due to enlarged blood vessels.
Types of Varicocele Disease
Grade 1
It’s a mild form and can only be detected through a Valsalva maneuver. It occurs when straining and coughing causes blood to flow back to the testis’s venous network (pampiniform plexus).
Grade 2
It is an intermediate form and can be felt and seen without the need for the Valsalva manoeuvre. When upright, it is more noticeable and easily palpable, but it may become smaller when one lies down.
Grade 3
Grade 3 is the most severe type of this problem. They are big and easily identifiable even without any maneuvres. Both when standing and while lying down, it is still visible and noticeable.
Complications Associated
1. Oligospermia
Varicocele-related venous congestion raises the temperature in the scrotum, which is thought to have an impact on spermatogenesis. Blood that has been reabsorbed from the renal vein contains powerful hormones that are synthesised by the adrenal glands, such as corticosteroids and adrenaline, which can inhibit spermatogenesis.
2. Hydrocele
A hydrocele is an accumulation of fluids inside the scrotum (testicle sac) in the fold of the mucous membrane that surrounds the testicle. It is the most prevalent complication of varicocele and results from the ligation of lymphatic vessels. Typically, one or both testicles will swell up without any pain.
Varicoceles are typically felt as a collection of dilated veins above the testicle, which are sometimes compared to feeling like a “bag of worms.” The above-mentioned are a few associated complications.
Tips for managing Varicocele Disease
Guard Your Well-Being With These Precautions
- Maintain a balanced diet
- Hold onto a healthy weight
- Prevent lifting heavy weights
- Don’t consume alcohol or smokev
- Put on the proper undergarments
- Maintain a healthy digestive system
- Minimise sitting time and bad posture