WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW:
- A varicocele (VAR-i-ko-sel) is a condition where the veins (blood vessels) in the scrotum are dilated (widened). The scrotum is the sac that holds the testicles, which produce sperm and hormones. A varicocele is the most common cause of infertility in men as it affects how sperm are produced. It is usually found more on the left testicle than on the right testicle. A varicocele occurs when the valves (door-like stoppers) within the veins in the scrotum do not work properly. The abnormal valves prevent normal blood flow and cause blood to backup, which dilates and enlarges the veins.
- Signs and symptoms include a mass or swelling on the scrotum that usually feels like a bag of worms. Enlarged and twisted veins may also be present. .A physical examination may determine if you have a varicocele. Diagnostic tests may include a scrotal ultrasound, semen analysis, and spermatic venography. Treatment includes surgery to repair the varicocele or a percutaneous embolization. With treatment, a varicocele may be cured, and its symptoms relieved.
AFTER YOU LEAVE:
- Keep a current list of your medicines: Include the amounts, and when, how, and why you take them. Take the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency. Throw away old medicine lists. Use vitamins, herbs, or food supplements only as directed.
- Take your medicine as directed: Call your primary healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not working as expected. Tell him about any medicine allergies, and if you want to quit taking or change your medicine.
Ask for information about where and when to go for follow-up visits:
For continuing care, treatments, or home services, ask for more information.
Bathing with stitches:
Follow your primary healthcare provider's instructions on when you can bathe. Gently wash the part of your body that has the stitches. Do not rub on the stitches to dry your skin. Pat the area gently with a towel. When the area is dry, put on a clean, new bandage as directed.
Eat healthy foods:
Choose healthy foods from all the food groups every day. Include whole-grain bread, cereal, rice, and pasta. Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables, including dark green and orange vegetables. Include dairy products such as low-fat milk, yogurt, and cheese. Choose protein sources, such as lean beef and chicken, fish, beans, eggs, and nuts. Ask how many servings of fats, oils, and sweets you should have each day, and if you need to be on a special diet.
For more information:
Contact any of the following:
- American Academy of Family Physicians
11400 Tomahawk Creek Parkway
Leawood , KS 66211-2680
Phone: 1- 913 - 906-6000
Phone: 1- 800 - 274-2237
Web Address: http://www.aafp.org
- American Society for Reproductive Medicine
1209 Montgomery Highway
Birmingham , AL 35216-2809
Phone: 1- 205 - 978-5000
Web Address: http://www.asrm.org
CONTACT A CAREGIVER IF:
- You have a fever.
- You have chills or feel weak and achy.
- You have pain in the groin area that does not go away.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition, treatment, or care.
SEEK CARE IMMEDIATELY IF:
- Your bandage becomes soaked with blood.
- You feel very full and cannot burp or vomit (throw up).
- You have pus or a foul-smelling odor coming from your incision.
- You have severe (bad) chest or shoulder pain and trouble breathing all of a sudden.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.