Varicocele

[stereobus]

I was diagnosed with a varicocele about 4 years ago. I wish I had done more research back then, but I went to two different doctors and they told me everything was fine, that this happens all the time, just wear supportive underwear, and don't worry about it. So that's exactly what I did... I wore supportive underwear and I didn't worry about it.

Now that I am in constant pain, I wish I'd worried about it. Now I can't hardly keep an erection, because it hurts so badly to have sex. My girlfriend is frustrated because we can't be adventurous because any tap on my scrotum will send me into agony. Not to mention my sex drive is in the toilet.

So what do I do now? Obviously nothing I have heard about this condition is true, so what can I do?

I have been doing the naturopathic treatment option mentioned on this site. Things have gotten a little better, but I mean a little. Now I can work longer with less pain. I can go to bed without supportive underwear most nights, but that's it.

I guess this post just sounds like complaining, but I really just want some answers. Since I have no insurance, I am getting tired of shelling out $300 per doctor visit to get worthless advice.

I would really like to know if this problem can be fixed, and if so how?

[redxiii]

may be find a urologist that would help you
or just go for the opeation but not to mention of the chances of reoccurance

[stereobus]

The two doctors I was referring to were both Urologists. I will go for surgery when I have some money. The problem is I have been lied to about everything having to do with this condition so far, so why am I to believe that surgery is what I should really do? How am I to believe they will give me the proper knowledge to care for the condition after the procedure?

[haymen]

Dude - you need an testicular ultrasound ASAP. How can you fix anything unless you know what is wrong? You are most likely going to need surgery, so get some health insurance and take care of yourself.

[haymen]

You also need sperm analysis, since this condition could effect your fertility. A local pharmacy should carry an at-home sperm test.

[stereobus]

I had an ultrasound already. The results seemed OK. The doctor wasn't concerned. It was fairly advanced on the left side and starting on the right. I now realize what a warning sign that should have been, but as it didn't seem to alarm my doctor, so it didn't alarm me. I am 30 and probably not going to have kids, so sperm count itself doesn't concern me, just general testicular health. I am convinced that Urologists will not tell me the truth about this condition, or they don't know the facts. That is pretty sad. Since this is such a common affliction, you'd think there would be more emphasis on preventative strategies like proper diet, exercise, and general well being. Also, I found out that a blow to the testes can cause / worsen this condition. Did any Urologist I paid CASH money to bother even mention that possibility? NO!

[beckerj]

I had the surgery and am very happy .... The pain is gone .... Ed is fading .... Depression is gone ....

Get it fixed ....

Micro Surgery here ....

[stereobus]

Finally someone with something positive to say! Thank you.

[beckerj]

Very Welcome .... I jus wish more Docs would acknowledge the problem ....

[Badgerfan]

I just had the surgery to correct infertility. One thing you need to do is find a urologist that specializes in male infertility. My wifes gyno. (sp) recommended me to a urologist over an hour away from where I live. I told her I'd to see someone in town but the doc. insisted that if the doctor doesn't specialize in male infertilty, he probably will he act like he can help you, but in reality, he doesn't know what he is doing. I followed her advice and am thankful that I did. The doctor she referred me to has been doing corrective surgeries for Varicocele for over 17 years. A week later, my testes feel great and I can see a huge difference.

I know your problem isn't for male infertility, but since varicocele is a problem most associated with male infertility, you need to find a doctor that specializes in it.

Also, I don't know how much surgery will cost you, but my wife and I checked out the price just in case insurance wouldn't pick it, it came out to be about $3500 for everything. Not cheap, but doable. The are businesses that specialize in medical loans if you can't pay up front. I suggest googling "medical loans" and see where this gets you.

Hope this helps.