What are the symptoms of varicocele?

Written by Wang Shuai
Urology
Updated on September 19, 2024
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If the patient has mild varicocele, they often have no symptoms and it is not easily detected; in such cases, no special treatment is needed. However, with moderate or severe varicocele, the patient may experience a dragging pain in the testicles, especially after intense physical activity, prolonged sitting, or standing, which makes the pain more pronounced. During a physical examination, twisted, worm-like clusters of veins can be felt within the scrotum.

Patients with varicocele should undergo further routine semen analysis to assess if the semen quality is affected. If sperm quality is impacted, it could lead to a decline in male fertility, and surgical treatment should be considered when necessary.

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Written by Zhang Xue Min
Vascular Surgery
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Can varicose veins be detected by ultrasound B?

Ultrasound is currently the main examination method for varicose veins. It is non-invasive, safe, and affordable, making it one of the standard methods for assessing varicose veins. Besides viewing the superficial veins, it also allows visualization of the deformed deep veins within the muscles, enabling a basic assessment of the causes of varicose veins. Ultrasound now plays a crucial role in the treatment of varicose veins. Many new treatment methods, such as blood flow modulation techniques like wrist flexing, require high precision in ultrasound use. It is essential to locate the reflux points using ultrasound, and then specifically target these points for ligation.

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Written by Zhang Xue Min
Vascular Surgery
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Does Grade II varicose veins require surgery?

In our clinical staging, Grade 2 varicose veins are the most common type of varicose veins. Often, these do not have complications and are relatively early-stage. The decision to undergo surgery depends on the patient's personal treatment preference. Some individuals might be motivated by cosmetic reasons, such as wanting to wear skirts or shorts in the summer to show off their legs. In such cases, their desire for treatment might be stronger. For some older individuals, they might not care as much, so the choice of undergoing surgery or opting for conservative treatment for Grade 2 varicose veins really depends on the patient's own wishes.

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Written by Zhang Xue Min
Vascular Surgery
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How should young people deal with varicose veins in the lower legs?

Firstly, for young people with varicose veins in the lower leg, it is recommended to go to the hospital for an ultrasound examination to check the condition of the deep veins. Additionally, consult a professional vascular surgeon to assess the severity. If the deep veins are unobstructed and the superficial varicose veins in the lower leg are not too severe, the doctor will suggest the patient wear medical compression stockings and continue with normal life activities. If the condition is more serious or there are certain issues with the deep veins, the doctor might recommend surgery. For such patients, it is important in daily life to avoid standing or sitting for long periods, and to avoid letting the legs dangle for too long. If standing, one can also step in place appropriately, which helps alleviate varicose veins. Also, when resting, take any opportunity to elevate the legs and avoid soaking feet in hot water.

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Written by Zhang Xue Min
Vascular Surgery
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Can people with varicose veins in the lower extremities drink alcohol?

The majority of patients with varicose veins in the lower limbs can drink alcohol in moderation, but should not drink excessively. However, there is one circumstance where it is advisable to check carefully before deciding whether to drink alcohol. This is the case if there are severe varicose veins in both lower limbs and even some clearly visible dilated veins on the abdomen. In such cases, it's recommended to check the liver first. This is because the veins from the lower limbs join to form a vein called the inferior vena cava, which passes through the liver to return to the heart. If there is a problem with the liver, it may compress the inferior vena cava, causing varicose veins on both sides. In this situation, drinking alcohol could further damage the liver, potentially worsening the varicose veins.

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Written by Wang Shuai
Urology
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What are the symptoms of varicocele?

If the patient has mild varicocele, they often have no symptoms and it is not easily detected; in such cases, no special treatment is needed. However, with moderate or severe varicocele, the patient may experience a dragging pain in the testicles, especially after intense physical activity, prolonged sitting, or standing, which makes the pain more pronounced. During a physical examination, twisted, worm-like clusters of veins can be felt within the scrotum. Patients with varicocele should undergo further routine semen analysis to assess if the semen quality is affected. If sperm quality is impacted, it could lead to a decline in male fertility, and surgical treatment should be considered when necessary.