What is a varicocele and should I worry about it?
Varicoceles are similar to varicose veins, but they occur around the testicles rather than the legs. They do not usually cause any serious problems, but they can impact male fertility. They happen when certain veins in the scrotum become enlarged, due to a malfunction in some of the valves involved in pumping the blood. They affect around 15 percent of males, and they tend to form between the ages of 15 and 25 years. Varicoceles normally affect just one side, usually the left. This article will look at the causes, symptoms and treatments of varicoceles. Fast facts on varicoceles: Varicoceles are similar to varicose veins but they affect the testicular area in men. They are thought to affect 15 percent of men, usually between the age of 15 and 25 years. The exact cause is unknown, but it may be similar to that of varicose veins. They are not usually painful. Varicoceles are not usually serious, but complications include fertility problems....