Can Varicose Veins develop into Varicocele?

Can Varicose Veins develop into Varicocele?

Varicose veins are large and dilated superficial veins in the legs that can cause pain, fatigue, itching, and swelling and might develop into more sinister venous ulcers. Varicocele is a condition in which the veins surrounding the testicles are dilated and enlarged, causing aching pain and possibly related to decreased fertility.


But are these related? And can one lead to another?
Many of my male patients ask me: are varicose veins and varicocele related? Am I going to get varicocele since I have varicose veins?


The straight answer is no; one of these conditions won’t lead to the other. However, they might develop together due to a unique condition. The central vein that drains these areas gets compressed.


The Iliac vein compression in the pelvis might simultaneously lead to varicocele and varicose veins. This is a congenital condition in which the Iliac veins and arteries compress each other, mainly affecting the veins. When veins are compressed, pressure will be built up within the veins, which will help the blood flow through collateral veins and back to the central veins, bypassing the compressed areas. This pressure build-up will result in the veins’ enlargement. As a result, blood will accumulate in the veins, causing symptoms such as pain, fatigue, burning, and itching.


When do we suspect this condition?
If the patient complains of both diseases or when there is recurrence after treatment. Also, if there is a history of previous venous thrombosis in the legs, especially in the iliac veins.


How to diagnose this condition?
The doctor will suspect this condition after the patient's thorough history and physical exam. Then, we confirm the diagnosis by obtaining a CT scan or MRI dedicated to viewing the veins.


What’s the treatment?
After confirming the presence of iliac vein compression, your doctor might recommend venous angioplasty with a stent. This safe procedure involves accessing the veins with a small needle. Then, a venous metal stent is placed in the vein undergoing the compression. Again, this is done as an outpatient procedure, with no need for an overnight stay in the hospital.
For more questions, contact Dr. Omar Hamdallah via phone or WhatsApp at +96265626538