Why are my testicular veins swollen?
A varicocele (VAR-ih-koe-seel) is an enlargement of the veins within the loose bag of skin that holds the testicles (scrotum). These veins transport oxygen-depleted blood from the testicles. A varicocele occurs when blood pools in the veins rather than circulating efficiently out of the scrotum.
Can you feel varicocele in abdomen?
If your varicocele is severe, you may have limited blood flow to the testicles. (ii) Reduced blood flow may trigger chronic or recurring pain in the scrotum and abdomen.
Why do my testicular veins hurt?
Varicoceles are similar to varicose veins, a common condition that causes veins in the leg to swell and lose their shape. Varicoceles are usually painless but can sometimes cause aching testicles or pain that may come and go. In some people, a varicocele can affect fertility.
How do I know if my varicocele is serious?
Are varicoceles dangerous? Varicoceles are not life threatening, but rarely they can be associated with dangerous conditions. For example, if a varicocele forms on the right side and not the left, it is important to make sure there is no mass or other abnormality in the abdomen that might be causing it.
What happens if a varicocele goes untreated?
Left untreated, they can cause testicular atrophy (shrinkage of the testicles). There is also a strong association between varicoceles and male infertility. Varicoceles have been linked with decreases in sperm count and motility and increases in the number of deformed and ineffective sperm.
Is a varicocele life threatening?
Varicoceles are not life threatening, but rarely they can be associated with dangerous conditions. For example, if a varicocele forms on the right side and not the left, it is important to make sure there is no mass or other abnormality in the abdomen that might be causing it.