What is a varicocele?
A varicocele is a medical disorder that describes a collection of dilated or enlarged veins in the scrotum. There are many small veins that drain blood away from the scrotum into the blood circulation. Sometimes these veins get blocked and congestion of blood results. Over time, these veins become engorged and are known as Varicoceles. Varicoceles are the same thing as varicose veins on the legs. When Varicoceles become large, one may be able to feel them – this sensation is often described as a “bag of worms”
Which scrotum is most affected with Varicoceles?
Varicoceles can occur in both scrotums. but generally are more common on the left side.
Why does a varicocele develop?
Blood flow in veins occurs only in one direction. To prevent back flow, veins have tiny valves. When these valves become defective or fail to close properly, blood starts to pool and collect downstream. This leads to congestion of veins leading to Varicoceles. It is believed that defective valves are the most common cause of Varicocele in young males.
The small veins from the scrotum drain into larger veins of the body. Often, if there is a cancer or a mass, which compresses the large veins, this can lead to engorgement of small veins downstream. In the left scrotum, cancers of kidney can often cause development of Varicoceles. This is more common in middle-aged males.
No comments:
Post a Comment