It may be embarrassing and uncomfortable to discuss, but let’s talk about testicles. More specifically, let’s get even more personal and talk about a medical condition that can affect testicles and cause testicle pain, discomfort and infertility: Varicocele.
If you or the man in your life have been experiencing any pain “down there”, you’re probably thinking “What the heck is varicocele and how do I know if I have it?” Let’s start with the basics:
- Varicocele is basically varicose veins in the scrotum. In other words, a bunch of veins in the scrotum dilate and cause some undesirable symptoms (we’ll get to those later).
- Some men describe the varicocele testicle pain as feeling like “a bag of worms”.
- Varicocele happens when the long testicular veins have faulty valves, and blood refluxes back to the scrotum instead of going back up to the level of the kidneys. The blood pools and builds up pressure in the veins, resulting in that “bag of worms.”
So why should you be concerned if you think you have varicocele? First of all, you may be experiencing testicle pain and discomfort, and, besides being no fun at all, it’s not necessary to suffer. Also, it can cause some shrinkage—not the kind referred to in that infamous Seinfeld episode (cold swimming pool), but actual shrinkage of the scrotum.
Finally, the increased temperature from the pooling blood, and the shrinkage, can cause decreased sperm production. Varicocele is the leading cause of male infertility.
Now let’s get back to the symptoms. If you are experiencing any of them, it’s worth making an appointment with one of the doctor specialists at Precision VIR to properly diagnose you. Call us at 214-382-3200 or complete the form below. One thing to keep in mind is that varicocele often happens more commonly on the left side, so you might only feel testicle pain or symptoms on one side of your scrotum.
Varicocele Symptoms Include:
- Enlarged veins in your scrotum
- Uneven testicles – one is larger than the other
- A lump in your testicle that doesn’t hurt. However, it’s important to realize that this can be a symptom of other conditions and you should make an appointment with a doctor as soon as possible.
- Pain is not necessarily a symptom, but if you experience testicle pain, it may take on these forms:
- A dull ache
- Worsening pain when standing a long time
- Worsening pain after exercise
- Worsening pain in warmer weather
- Infertility
- Low testosterone
What to Do if I Have a Varicocele and Testicle Pain?
The next question you’re probably thinking is “Now that I think I might have varicocele, what the heck do I do about it?”
- The first thing you want to do is make an appointment with a practice specializing in Interventional Radiology. Precision VIR has some of the best doctors in the Dallas area for the treatment of varicocele and testicle pain caused by varicocele, and we can diagnose you, too. Let’s face it, when you’re dealing with such important parts, you want to be sure that the doctors treating you have a stellar reputation. To schedule an appointment please call us at 214-382-3200 or complete the form below.
- If you are already seeing an urologist, that doctor can assess if you need treatment. But be sure to do your own research. Because often, if you do require treatment, urologists will recommend surgery—the kind that takes place in an operating room, using anesthesia, long recovery times, missing work, etc. However, and this is where that research comes in, there is also a treatment available that is minimally invasive, has a far shorter and easier recovery, and can be done at our office. It’s called Varicocele Embolization, and you should ask your doctor about it.
Varicocele Embolization is a Non-Surgical Way to Fix Varicocele and Reduce Testicle Pain
While the patient is under local anesthesia or light sedation, the doctor inserts a small catheter into the vein in the groin and directed to the testicular vein. The veins causing reflux are then blocked with coils and Fibroven foam.
You might be cringing a little, but it has minimal discomfort, and you’re back to your normal activities in just a few days. Also, the success rate is about 90%— the same as full blown surgery! Your sperm count and motility will hopefully go up about 75% as the blood flow is increased throughout your testicles, so if infertility was an issue, there’s a good chance it has been resolved.
The doctors at Precision VIR are specialists in Varicocele Embolization. We can help you with your testicle pain and infertility caused by varicocele. Our professional, experienced and compassionate specialists and staff will guide you through the entire process. Then you won’t need to be embarrassed or worried about varicocele anymore!
Meet Our Expert Doctors
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Our specialists will take the time to answer your questions about varicocele and our advanced procedures. At Precision VIR, we have expertise in minimally invasive techniques available with vascular and interventional radiology. We treat with patient comfort, safety and maximum effectiveness in mind. To schedule an appointment please call us at 214-382-3200 or complete the form below.
Precision VIR serves the DFW area including Dallas, Fort Worth, Carrollton, Richardson, Garland, Mesquite, Highland Park, University Park, Park Cities, Allen, Plano, Frisco, McKinney, Arlington, Irving, Grand Prairie, Farmers Branch, Denton, Lewisville and all of North Texas.
This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Prior to starting any new treatment or questions regarding a medical condition, always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider.