The enlarged blood vessels give the appearance and feel of a bag of worms in the upper region of the scrotum. Varicocele can usually be diagnosed on physical examination of the scrotum while the male is standing. It becomes significantly reduced when the male lies down. Varicoceles are almost always seen on the left side of the scrotum. Right-sided varicocele is rare and is a cause for concern for more serious abdominal problems.
Varicoceles are the leading cause of irreversible infertility in men.
When a varicocele is discovered, the male should be followed yearly for any further signs of left testicular problems. A decrease in testis size when compared to the normal right testis indicates surgical correction of the varicocele. Rebound testis growth occurs in most men treated surgically for varicocele. A semen analysis also helps determine the varicocele's effect on fertility, but adolescents are often reluctant to provide specimens for analysis. Hernia Hernia is a weakness in the lower abdominal wall.