DragonRider
Active member
I doubt it. I've had mine for at least 37 years.
VARICOCELE...can it effect testosterone?
- Thread starter Hyde12
- Start date
I doubt it. I've had mine for at least 37 years.
Cordell
Guest
No you'll be fine. If doctors are there like they are here you'll be waiting a while though. They prescibe pills, then you see a specialist, then get the surgery. Thats why it's good to get "cough cough............................. the ball rolling".
fokker
New member
First of all I must say that you guys really have an excellent discussion here about varicoceles and you seem to know very much about them.
I am pretty young guy, 19 years old, and I think I have a varicocele on my both balls. I know that it can be fixed but what bothers me most is the size of my testicles. I mean they're smaller than they should be and obviously my varicocele has something to do with this. I want to have a surgery but does the surgery help me with this size problem? I would so much to have little bigger testicles because small testicles lower my self-esteem and I feel pretty scared about having a sex someday. I don’t know what to do if a woman starts to laugh to my small balls in bed. I have no problems with my libido or stuff like that but I’m so concerned about the testicular size. I would be so glad if my testicles could grow at least a little after surgery. What are my chances to have more normal-sized testicles?
I am pretty young guy, 19 years old, and I think I have a varicocele on my both balls. I know that it can be fixed but what bothers me most is the size of my testicles. I mean they're smaller than they should be and obviously my varicocele has something to do with this. I want to have a surgery but does the surgery help me with this size problem? I would so much to have little bigger testicles because small testicles lower my self-esteem and I feel pretty scared about having a sex someday. I don’t know what to do if a woman starts to laugh to my small balls in bed. I have no problems with my libido or stuff like that but I’m so concerned about the testicular size. I would be so glad if my testicles could grow at least a little after surgery. What are my chances to have more normal-sized testicles?
wildfox
Member
You need to see a urologist about this and get a diagnosis. If you want children, you definitely need to get this taken care of.
As far as a woman laughing at you, such a woman would be a complete waste of your time, because she'd have other issues too if she's going to sleep with you and not love you for who you are. Of course, if you only bed women to get yourself off and pretend to be a man, then you'd deserve the laughter. But hopefully you're more mature than that scene.
Please, go see a doctor.
fokker
New member
Yep, I'm definetely gonna do that. But oh f*ck how I'm scared what my parents will think about my problems.
wildfox
Member
You're 19. You're an adult man. It's up to you to get what you need and take care of yourself.
Good luck!
JJE
New member
Hi,
I'm so happy to find this thread.
I've had varicocele since I was about 17-18. I went to the doctors then and he basically said to me it's ok don't worry about it. So I waited a year or so until I was 19 and went to another doctor because I was worried about it again. I got the same result.
So I'm here now, 23, it's still there and it's still uncomfortable. I've also got libido problems and find it increasingly difficult to get an erection. I'm about to book an appointment with a specialised doctor. But, the main reason for me going there is because of my libido problem, and I was wondering if varicocele could be a cause of this? It would make so much sense.
Thanks for any help.
*Megazoid, I can assist with the website if you like. I'm a web designer*
I'm so happy to find this thread.
I've had varicocele since I was about 17-18. I went to the doctors then and he basically said to me it's ok don't worry about it. So I waited a year or so until I was 19 and went to another doctor because I was worried about it again. I got the same result.
So I'm here now, 23, it's still there and it's still uncomfortable. I've also got libido problems and find it increasingly difficult to get an erection. I'm about to book an appointment with a specialised doctor. But, the main reason for me going there is because of my libido problem, and I was wondering if varicocele could be a cause of this? It would make so much sense.
Thanks for any help.
*Megazoid, I can assist with the website if you like. I'm a web designer*
beckerj
Member
I would go to another urologist .... Explain that you are in pain .... Phib a little .... Let them know that after sex you are very sore in that area .... When you stand for long periods it feels as if there is a weight that is pulling your boys down .... When you lie down is the only time there is relief ....
I had my varicocele for no more than a year and has put me through hell .... I had the Micro-Surgery in December to correct it .... It has been a slow go and many brick walls .... I am still not 100% .... 293 on TT (241-827) And I am Normal ? What the F**K Ever !!!!
I have gone back on the Wellbutrin just to appease the stupid Endo .... Been on it for 5 days and my head is much clearer .... May want to ask your Doc to put you on it to help you through the Muck of DR.s that don't take the syptoms AND labs into account ....
I would love to work on a Site with you in some way .... It would be cool to put a site together and maybe do a mailing to Urologists and Endos to make them aware of what we all have gone through .... Just a thought ....
I had my varicocele for no more than a year and has put me through hell .... I had the Micro-Surgery in December to correct it .... It has been a slow go and many brick walls .... I am still not 100% .... 293 on TT (241-827) And I am Normal ? What the F**K Ever !!!!
I have gone back on the Wellbutrin just to appease the stupid Endo .... Been on it for 5 days and my head is much clearer .... May want to ask your Doc to put you on it to help you through the Muck of DR.s that don't take the syptoms AND labs into account ....
I would love to work on a Site with you in some way .... It would be cool to put a site together and maybe do a mailing to Urologists and Endos to make them aware of what we all have gone through .... Just a thought ....
JJE
New member
Thanks for the reply mate. Sorry for being naive, but I'm not sure what how to measure TT and don't know what Wellbutrin and Endo are?
I'd really like to get a proper site up about this. It is more rampant than i originally thought, and a lot of doctors know little about it.
Did you have any problems with your libido? I guess it may be different because I've had varicocele for so long.
I'd really like to get a proper site up about this. It is more rampant than i originally thought, and a lot of doctors know little about it.
Did you have any problems with your libido? I guess it may be different because I've had varicocele for so long.
beckerj
Member
Sorry .... I've had time to learn this lingo ....
TT = Total Testosterone
Wellbutrin = This is an antidepressant
Endo = Endocronologist
They say that 15-20% of all men have them and are asymptomatic (Meaning they have no symptoms) .... I have been to 3 Urologists and none of them took the Testosterone into account for my Lack of Libido, Weakness in my arms and legs, Erection problems, anxiety problems, waking in the night to go pee, prolonged orgasm (Which was not an issue for me or my other half), slow growth of pubic and body hair, headaches, and not to mention the pain in the groin.
I am not an expert in the matter by no stretch, but I have a good story to tell, and tell it whenever I encounter someone that is in my shoes .... I hate what we all have been put through .... In my mind it is like giving a man PMS .... No known cure .... Except for the knife ....
TT = Total Testosterone
Wellbutrin = This is an antidepressant
Endo = Endocronologist
They say that 15-20% of all men have them and are asymptomatic (Meaning they have no symptoms) .... I have been to 3 Urologists and none of them took the Testosterone into account for my Lack of Libido, Weakness in my arms and legs, Erection problems, anxiety problems, waking in the night to go pee, prolonged orgasm (Which was not an issue for me or my other half), slow growth of pubic and body hair, headaches, and not to mention the pain in the groin.
I am not an expert in the matter by no stretch, but I have a good story to tell, and tell it whenever I encounter someone that is in my shoes .... I hate what we all have been put through .... In my mind it is like giving a man PMS .... No known cure .... Except for the knife ....
beckerj
Member
Since the surgery I have seen a gradual fixing of these symptoms .... I still have all the symptoms I mentioned but they are diminshing slowly .... The Wellbutrin, I think, as much as I don't want to admit it, has helped in the last few days .... I am not as fogged in the head .... I am still having the physical symptoms I mentioned, but the head is clearer .... and not as focused on those symptoms ....
The LIBIDO .... For me it comes and goes .... In the morning I am pretty much normal, but that is just what they say, Your Testosterone = T is its highest then .... Through the day I don't even think much about it, then in the evening about 7 or so I start getting a little "Randy" .... In my relationship this is the biggest issue .... I'm ready and the other half is not .... Other half is ready and I am not .... So ....
One other thing that I have found is my dreams seem more vivid and alive .... IT seems like with the pain and issues of Testosterone my dreams, if I even remembered them, were dull and lifeless ....
The LIBIDO .... For me it comes and goes .... In the morning I am pretty much normal, but that is just what they say, Your Testosterone = T is its highest then .... Through the day I don't even think much about it, then in the evening about 7 or so I start getting a little "Randy" .... In my relationship this is the biggest issue .... I'm ready and the other half is not .... Other half is ready and I am not .... So ....
One other thing that I have found is my dreams seem more vivid and alive .... IT seems like with the pain and issues of Testosterone my dreams, if I even remembered them, were dull and lifeless ....
JJE
New member
Good to hear your getting over it. I have the exact same problem with being randy in the morning and the other half is not. I'm rarely into it of a night. I'm lucky I have a very understanding other half.
Have you taken any libido enhancing stuff? I've heard of a nasal spray that's effective. Kind of like an alternative to viagra.
Come to think of it, I barely have vivid dreams anymore...
Have you taken any libido enhancing stuff? I've heard of a nasal spray that's effective. Kind of like an alternative to viagra.
Come to think of it, I barely have vivid dreams anymore...
beckerj
Member
See the dream thing I think is a good indicator of how the Varicocele is affecting a person .... If you are not remembering your dreams or the parts you do remember are not like what you may have had remebered I think that is a good point to prove something is not right ....
I have tried various Libido things, but to be honest nothing really worked for me .... I do take Pycogynol and L-Arginine (100MG) every morning .... The Pycogynol is supposed to help strengthen your veins .... The L-Arginine is supposed to help with Nitric Oxide which is essential for erections ....
Another little test I used was the viagra test .... I used to be able to take a 1/4 of a 25MG viagra and it would work as if I had taken a whole 25MG .... IT now takes 1/3 of a 100MG to give me wood .... Before the surgery I tried a 25MG of Viagra and did nothing .... So in this little test, as Un-Scientific as it is, shows a bit of an improvement, and helps the head and its anxiety a little bit ....
You are very lucky to have an understanding other half .... Mine tries but .... it is hard to go from a man ready at the drop of a towel to being afraid it isn't going to work ....
I have tried various Libido things, but to be honest nothing really worked for me .... I do take Pycogynol and L-Arginine (100MG) every morning .... The Pycogynol is supposed to help strengthen your veins .... The L-Arginine is supposed to help with Nitric Oxide which is essential for erections ....
Another little test I used was the viagra test .... I used to be able to take a 1/4 of a 25MG viagra and it would work as if I had taken a whole 25MG .... IT now takes 1/3 of a 100MG to give me wood .... Before the surgery I tried a 25MG of Viagra and did nothing .... So in this little test, as Un-Scientific as it is, shows a bit of an improvement, and helps the head and its anxiety a little bit ....
You are very lucky to have an understanding other half .... Mine tries but .... it is hard to go from a man ready at the drop of a towel to being afraid it isn't going to work ....
JJE
New member
Yeah, it becomes so psychological after the first few times it happends. I may try out this nasal spray and see how effective it is.
The strange thing is, I've had this for over 5 years and less than a year a go I was having sex 4 times a day. Now in the past couple months its becoming really difficult.
Anyway, I really need to get an appointment with someone. Is it a urologist I'm looking for?
The strange thing is, I've had this for over 5 years and less than a year a go I was having sex 4 times a day. Now in the past couple months its becoming really difficult.
Anyway, I really need to get an appointment with someone. Is it a urologist I'm looking for?
beckerj
Member
That was the weird thing for me as well .... I had my appendix out November 06 .... 07, showed a decline in libido and erection issues, not to mention all the other symptoms I've mentioned ....
I would look for a urologist and tell them all that I and others have said in order for them to take it seriously enough to take action .... JanSZ is going to tell ya to get testing .... He is pretty knowledgable about what tests we should get .... So look to him for testing support ....
The nasal spray may work, although in my mind, you need a "normal" level of Testosterone ....
I would look for a urologist ....
Let me know how the nasal spray works .....
Don't forget to let the urologist know HOW BAD it hurts .... SMILE
I would look for a urologist and tell them all that I and others have said in order for them to take it seriously enough to take action .... JanSZ is going to tell ya to get testing .... He is pretty knowledgable about what tests we should get .... So look to him for testing support ....
The nasal spray may work, although in my mind, you need a "normal" level of Testosterone ....
I would look for a urologist ....
Let me know how the nasal spray works .....
Don't forget to let the urologist know HOW BAD it hurts .... SMILE
JanSz
Well-known member
The tests I am doing for my self at Quest Diagnostics are on post #44:
http://anabolicminds.com/forum/male-anti-aging/66268-jan-s-bloodtest-2.html
Arc1
New member
Hi, I seem to have the same issues as most of you. I'm 20, healthy, very active, and I've had a large varicocele since I was 12 or 13. My doc diagnosed me around then and said I could have it taken care of if I wanted but it wasn't a big deal either way. Well, since then I've seen my sex-drive wither to about nothing and I've had increasingly-worse erectile issues. I've read through this thread and understood some of it, I'm not familiar with all the hormone levels and testing and whatnot. My question is, what should I tell my doc when I see him next? Should I just tell him I want my varicocele fixed and see if that resolves my other issues? Should I tell him about my libido and erectile issues and see what he has to say about that? I'd like to stay away from any pharmaceuticals as much as possible. Anyway, thanks for all the great info, guys!
beckerj
Member
Well if you have read through my posts you know that I will advocate getting the surgery done as it seems to have helped me .... Although I am not way done healing .... The DR told me it can take upwards of 6 months to heal fully .... I am trying to be patient, but to tell you the truth the wellbutrin is a help because for me I was real bad off .... I would make sure you have it because with all the brick walls we all have run into .....
JJE
New member
Hey, I'm going to see a doctor within the next few days and I'm going to tell him everything. Basically that the vaicocele hurts and I've got a constant dull ache.. but because I've had it for so long it feels normal (I have had it for around 5 years). I'm going to let him know that my libido is dwindling and that I believe it's related. Even if I'm put on some kind of libido enhancing treatment while it recovers.
By the way beckerj, how long did it take for swelling to go?
Also, thanks for the info JanSz
JJE
New member
After surgery?
bballpenguin1
New member
hey there I am 19 and realized about 3 months ago that I have verecocele. So I went to the doc and she said that I should be fine without doing anything. Anyone have any advice for me on what I should do?
bballpenguin1
New member
ya so would this wouldn't just die down or anything like that ? If not then why would my doc tell me to not worry about it ..... O well, i did look at some of your other posts and they were helpful as well. I forget which surgery you suggested and what are the pros and cons of it? Also would I have ED after the surgery even with my semi young age ? If I am at college would you suggest get it done as soon as possible or wait until May 2nd when I get out ? I also lift 3 days a week and play bball everyday, I only have slight discomfort every once and a while however I find it more in my right boy than my left ... the vc is in my left which confuses me a bit. Anyways thanks for your input.
bballpenguin1
New member
so are there any long term effects if i were not to get the surgery ?
beckerj
Member
Well that is where the train separates .... One school of thought says no .... The one I beleive is yes .... And the evidence is there in the various posts from those of us that have had Varicocele .... I am glad that I had the surgery, but wish the Docs would see that 293 is low for me .... (241-827) .... And the symptoms are there .... But I am due back to the urologist on April 3 and he is gonna do another ultra sound and I am gonna speak a little more focibly on the T levels ....
LeanGuy
Active member
Isn't that crazy... my docs say the same, except for my ND. I feel low-T symptoms anything under 600.
beckerj
Member
Well That is what I have tried to get the Endo to see but he is an old fart .... And he was supposedly the Endo that Endo's in the area go to .... Yeah Right ! .... I went and saw another GP that was an Osteo and she said the same thing that every Doc has said .... Diet and excercise .... I agree I need to change my eating habits and loose some weight .... But I was fine and dandy before the varicocele .... And my weight has been the same for YEARS ! .... IT's not like i have put 20 pounds on in the past year .... I am a thick guy .... And I wear it well ....
BTW .... I haven't tried Clomid .... I read in another post you thought I had tried it .... I am a wuss about trying the Nolvadex .... I am afraid it could do more damage than it woudl do good .... But hearing that the Clomid is working well for you is prompting me to think about the Nolva a lot more .... I'm just afraid of stopping it and then going back or worse .... But you say that the Clomid is making a big difference for you .... ???? Are you doing anything Else but the Clomid ? I know you have suggested several things that you have been trying ....
BTW .... I haven't tried Clomid .... I read in another post you thought I had tried it .... I am a wuss about trying the Nolvadex .... I am afraid it could do more damage than it woudl do good .... But hearing that the Clomid is working well for you is prompting me to think about the Nolva a lot more .... I'm just afraid of stopping it and then going back or worse .... But you say that the Clomid is making a big difference for you .... ???? Are you doing anything Else but the Clomid ? I know you have suggested several things that you have been trying ....
Lore
New member
Hi guys. I'm new here, and I have a story to tell.
I'm 18 years old.
Last August, I went to the doctor complaining of dull testicular pain. Very achey and uncomfortable feelings in the scrotum.
The doctor referred me to a urologist where I went and got a physical exam. He told me that there was nothing physically wrong with my testicles (i.e.; bumps), and he suggest I get a sonogram.
I got the sonogram and they didn't find anything, but he did say that it was a varicocele, and that it's pretty normal. He suggested I wear briefs to ease the pain.
I started wearing briefs, and for a time, it helped. I didn't feel any pain or discomfort again until recently, when I began to weight lift. The doctor warned me that weight lifting can aggravate the vericocele, so I figure that's the reason for my new, sudden testicular discomfort.
While examining myself recently, I came upon something very strange.
When I stand up and feel my testicular cords, they feel rather dilated or thick.
When I lay down, especially on my side, they go BACK TO NORMAL SIZE! Why is that? Is this normal??
I mean, I think it is a lot better than having a varicocele 24/7, because when I go to bed and lay down, my varicocele is apparently gone until the morning, when I get up. So at night my testicles get the proper blood flow I guess.
I've been thinking about testosterone a lot lately too. Even though I have a bunch of body hair, a pretty deep voice, and scattered/patchy facial hair, I'm scared that the varicocele won't let me develop a full beard, chest hair, back hair, etc. Can this happen?
By the way, it's been a week since I weight lifted and I still have discomfort in my scrotum. Should I go back to the doctor? I've been exploring my options about surgery, and I'm quite scared about that sort of thing.
Please give me some advice, guys.
EDIT: I would also like to mention that I get up every single night to urinate.
I'm 18 years old.
Last August, I went to the doctor complaining of dull testicular pain. Very achey and uncomfortable feelings in the scrotum.
The doctor referred me to a urologist where I went and got a physical exam. He told me that there was nothing physically wrong with my testicles (i.e.; bumps), and he suggest I get a sonogram.
I got the sonogram and they didn't find anything, but he did say that it was a varicocele, and that it's pretty normal. He suggested I wear briefs to ease the pain.
I started wearing briefs, and for a time, it helped. I didn't feel any pain or discomfort again until recently, when I began to weight lift. The doctor warned me that weight lifting can aggravate the vericocele, so I figure that's the reason for my new, sudden testicular discomfort.
While examining myself recently, I came upon something very strange.
When I stand up and feel my testicular cords, they feel rather dilated or thick.
When I lay down, especially on my side, they go BACK TO NORMAL SIZE! Why is that? Is this normal??
I mean, I think it is a lot better than having a varicocele 24/7, because when I go to bed and lay down, my varicocele is apparently gone until the morning, when I get up. So at night my testicles get the proper blood flow I guess.
I've been thinking about testosterone a lot lately too. Even though I have a bunch of body hair, a pretty deep voice, and scattered/patchy facial hair, I'm scared that the varicocele won't let me develop a full beard, chest hair, back hair, etc. Can this happen?
By the way, it's been a week since I weight lifted and I still have discomfort in my scrotum. Should I go back to the doctor? I've been exploring my options about surgery, and I'm quite scared about that sort of thing.
Please give me some advice, guys.
EDIT: I would also like to mention that I get up every single night to urinate.
beckerj
Member
Well, Lore .... If you follow my posts here you will see your story and mine are pretty much the same .... Personally I beleive the surgery route to be the best .... I had mine done in Dec. 07 and would suggest to ANY man that has a significant or painful varicocele to get the surgery done .... I would make sure the DR. is experienced in doing them, and from the sounds of how your current urologist is approaching the situation I would not want him to operate on me .... I would find an urologist that at least takes the pain you are experiencing seriously .... The T level issue with urologists will be a hit and most likely miss ....
I have been healing now for 3+ months and have seen little in the way of improvement in my T levels .... I recently started self medicating with Nolvadex 20MG on M-W-F and Since this past Friday I am feeling a bit more frisky and not at anxious .... So that tells me right there that the T levels I have/had are not right ....
Do not be scared of the surgery .... I had the Micro Surgery .... That is the one that I saw as most benificial .... I had a grade III on my left side and grade I on the right ....
I live in columbus Ohio .... The DR that did mine was Dr. Kevin Banks .... IF you are remotely close to Columbus Ohio I would come and have him do it .... HE is not good on the T issues, but the surgery was great for me .... The pain is gone for the most part .... unless I strain too much ....
Even though you are in bed for the 8 hours of sleep that does not mean that the blood flow is normal .... The valves that control the blood flow are still defective and not pumping the blood away from the testis properly ....
I have been healing now for 3+ months and have seen little in the way of improvement in my T levels .... I recently started self medicating with Nolvadex 20MG on M-W-F and Since this past Friday I am feeling a bit more frisky and not at anxious .... So that tells me right there that the T levels I have/had are not right ....
Do not be scared of the surgery .... I had the Micro Surgery .... That is the one that I saw as most benificial .... I had a grade III on my left side and grade I on the right ....
I live in columbus Ohio .... The DR that did mine was Dr. Kevin Banks .... IF you are remotely close to Columbus Ohio I would come and have him do it .... HE is not good on the T issues, but the surgery was great for me .... The pain is gone for the most part .... unless I strain too much ....
Even though you are in bed for the 8 hours of sleep that does not mean that the blood flow is normal .... The valves that control the blood flow are still defective and not pumping the blood away from the testis properly ....
Lore
New member
Yes Becker, I read this entire thread and I found it very informative and helpful. I don't know if my urologist will be willing to perform surgery because I am not in intense pain. In fact, I don't even want to really call it pain, just dull discomfort. I'm not sure if I want to lie about something like that, then he may perform a surgery and make things worse, you know?
My main concern regarding the varicocele is the testosterone. I don't want to wait for this thing to get worse, to the point of some testicular atrophy, which kills cells that produce the hormone. I'm located in New York City so I have a lot of options here. The guy I went to is located in a pretty prime location, and he gets a lot of patients. He looks very experienced with this type of thing. I think I can trust his word.
I think my T levels are pretty good at this point, because I see development in my secondary sexual characteristics. For instance, new facial hair has popped up in an area that was bare just months ago. Also, I feel the need to masturbate on a daily basis, if not twice a day. The amount of ejaculatory fluid is pretty high, but I'm not sure if that has anything to do with sperm count. Probably not.
I'm glad to hear you're recovering now. Hope everything goes smooth the functions go back to normal for you.
I'd be hesitant to take any hormones (if that's what you're taking) because I heard that hormonal supplements can halt your bodies natural abilities to produce "T", which can force to take the supplements for the rest of your life (or most of it). Any truth to this?
I'm not sure if the valves that control the blood flow are defective. I think the way my testicle naturally is positioned, it doesn't allow as much blood flow as possible when I'm standing, but when I'm lying down, its positioned in a way that does allow natural flow. I'm not an expert on this by any means though. It's just that when I'm standing and I have a dilated cord and when I'm lying down and my the cord size thins back to normal, tells me that it gets blocked and free'd depending on my body's positioning. Could it be?
P.S. Thanks for the reply.
My main concern regarding the varicocele is the testosterone. I don't want to wait for this thing to get worse, to the point of some testicular atrophy, which kills cells that produce the hormone. I'm located in New York City so I have a lot of options here. The guy I went to is located in a pretty prime location, and he gets a lot of patients. He looks very experienced with this type of thing. I think I can trust his word.
I think my T levels are pretty good at this point, because I see development in my secondary sexual characteristics. For instance, new facial hair has popped up in an area that was bare just months ago. Also, I feel the need to masturbate on a daily basis, if not twice a day. The amount of ejaculatory fluid is pretty high, but I'm not sure if that has anything to do with sperm count. Probably not.
I'm glad to hear you're recovering now. Hope everything goes smooth the functions go back to normal for you.
I'd be hesitant to take any hormones (if that's what you're taking) because I heard that hormonal supplements can halt your bodies natural abilities to produce "T", which can force to take the supplements for the rest of your life (or most of it). Any truth to this?
I'm not sure if the valves that control the blood flow are defective. I think the way my testicle naturally is positioned, it doesn't allow as much blood flow as possible when I'm standing, but when I'm lying down, its positioned in a way that does allow natural flow. I'm not an expert on this by any means though. It's just that when I'm standing and I have a dilated cord and when I'm lying down and my the cord size thins back to normal, tells me that it gets blocked and free'd depending on my body's positioning. Could it be?
P.S. Thanks for the reply.
beckerj
Member
For my situation I did not have to do much in the way of phibbing .... But I did a bit in the way of exageration ....
In my opinion I say that you should ask your DR what grade varicocele you have ? If it is a Grade I or smaller I would just wear jock straps and keep an eye on it .... If it gets worse I would say to get the micro surgery .... The same goes for if it is Grade II or III .... I would not worry about making things worse .... You have an issue with the central "MAN Center" .... If it is larger than Grade I the T levels as well as other things can be impacted, at least that is what I have gathered from everyone that has posted here and some of the medical reviews on the issue .... There is also evidence that having the surgery helps in these areas that are affected by the varicocele so if anything you are helping yourself now by getting the micro surgery ....
Varicocele does affect sperm making as well as T levels .... Although it sounds like you may have caught yours early on and may not have the issues myself and others have had to deal with as it sneaks up on most of us ....
Thanks for the support .... I am going to my follow-up this afternoon .... Doc's doing another ultrasound and meeting with me ....
The Nolvadex is not a hormone but something that anabolic users use to help in PCT .... It is supposed to raise your T levels by blocking estrogen and increase signals for LH production .... I too am not an expert, but I have to try something .... I am hessitant to try the HRT with Testim, but I may need to go that route as I can't see taking nolvadex forever .... If I were to go on Testim then I would need it for life .... that scares me too .... I am only 36 .... That is why I am trying the Nolvadex to see if that can get me through the hump of my own production drop .... We will see ....
The definition of varicocele say that there are defective valves that cause the varicocele to form .... So .... Yeah you do have some defective vavles ....
In my opinion I say that you should ask your DR what grade varicocele you have ? If it is a Grade I or smaller I would just wear jock straps and keep an eye on it .... If it gets worse I would say to get the micro surgery .... The same goes for if it is Grade II or III .... I would not worry about making things worse .... You have an issue with the central "MAN Center" .... If it is larger than Grade I the T levels as well as other things can be impacted, at least that is what I have gathered from everyone that has posted here and some of the medical reviews on the issue .... There is also evidence that having the surgery helps in these areas that are affected by the varicocele so if anything you are helping yourself now by getting the micro surgery ....
Varicocele does affect sperm making as well as T levels .... Although it sounds like you may have caught yours early on and may not have the issues myself and others have had to deal with as it sneaks up on most of us ....
Thanks for the support .... I am going to my follow-up this afternoon .... Doc's doing another ultrasound and meeting with me ....
The Nolvadex is not a hormone but something that anabolic users use to help in PCT .... It is supposed to raise your T levels by blocking estrogen and increase signals for LH production .... I too am not an expert, but I have to try something .... I am hessitant to try the HRT with Testim, but I may need to go that route as I can't see taking nolvadex forever .... If I were to go on Testim then I would need it for life .... that scares me too .... I am only 36 .... That is why I am trying the Nolvadex to see if that can get me through the hump of my own production drop .... We will see ....
The definition of varicocele say that there are defective valves that cause the varicocele to form .... So .... Yeah you do have some defective vavles ....
Lore
New member
That's a good idea. I should ask for my grade.
I keep putting the doctor visit off, but I'll definitely go either tomorrow or this weekend.
If I have a Grade I, I don't want to wait until it becomes a Grade II to get surgery, but that's probably what the doctor would prefer.
Do you think he would do the microsurgery if I ask him to? If not, what do you think I should do to make him do it? Exaggerate the pain?
Yes, I think I did catch mine early on. Probably because as soon as it developed, I had an onset of painful symptoms. From what I understand, most guys don't even feel anything until it goes to Grade III.
Good luck with the medication. Definitely do NOT take hormonal supplements. That can really mess you up.
Earlier in the thread, Mega(something) said that varicoceles never really go away. What did he mean by that? Any truth to it?
By the way, how'd the exam go?
I keep putting the doctor visit off, but I'll definitely go either tomorrow or this weekend.
If I have a Grade I, I don't want to wait until it becomes a Grade II to get surgery, but that's probably what the doctor would prefer.
Do you think he would do the microsurgery if I ask him to? If not, what do you think I should do to make him do it? Exaggerate the pain?
Yes, I think I did catch mine early on. Probably because as soon as it developed, I had an onset of painful symptoms. From what I understand, most guys don't even feel anything until it goes to Grade III.
Good luck with the medication. Definitely do NOT take hormonal supplements. That can really mess you up.
Earlier in the thread, Mega(something) said that varicoceles never really go away. What did he mean by that? Any truth to it?
By the way, how'd the exam go?
beckerj
Member
I went back for my three month follow up with the surgeon .... HE looked at my current labs and said I want to put you on Androgel for a month .... Then do another set of labs ....
I now and taking 20MG of nolvadex M-W-F and applying four pumps of androgel a day .... I will keep all appraised ....
My goal is to keep my boys in gear while doing the androgel ....
Anyone have any suggestions ?
Sorry for the late reply ....
I now and taking 20MG of nolvadex M-W-F and applying four pumps of androgel a day .... I will keep all appraised ....
My goal is to keep my boys in gear while doing the androgel ....
Anyone have any suggestions ?
Sorry for the late reply ....
darkblue1
Member
I am 34 years old. I am having bilateral varicocele for three months. I am having no erections. Just weak erection in early morning hours in deep sleep. Left testicle has larger varicocele than right one. I also have headache, pain and burning sensation feeling in right side of lower abdomen and tightness at the centre. I went to emergency two times becos of pain.They said everything is fine (took CT blood and urine test). Second time they did ultra sound for testices and diagnosed as bilateral varicoceles, but they did not say anything about pain in lower abdomen. I have smaller testicles on left side (3.9 cm) and on right side (4.5cm). My primary care physician (dumb guy) refered to general surgen (for hernia) and gastro enterologist (for colonoscopy) . I asked him to do testosterone test. He did not know that I may have low testosterone. Total testosterone is 216 which is very low for me. He refered eurologist and I could not get appointment till May 2nd,that’s too long. I went to another eurologist yesterday (somehow I got appointment soon). I told him I want to get rid of varicoceles becos serious discomfort and cannot sleep. He said removing varicocele is very easy, but it wont improbe testosterone,increase the size of testicle, or erection. He prescribed cipro to take for 2 weeks and come back, mean while he will do tests for prolactin,LH,FSH etc.(next week), He also said varicocele cannot appear all of a sudden. You had varicocele for long. When I said I don’t have this 4 months back he is not believing. Usually for me, testicles hung high , they don’t hang low,Now they hang very low and cause serious discomfort and scary for me. I don’t know why I got varicocele, may be because of lifting heavy weights or improper blood valves. It’s ruining my life. My primry care physician prescribed to used testim. I used for 15 days. I didn’t get any gain from that. When I went to endo he said how can the doctor prescribe testime without knowing why you have low testosterone and told me to stop it so that he can do more tests.
I think varicoceles in middle aged men 25-40 is caused because of some type infection caused by the food we take, otherwise why it will happen all of a sudden.
I don’t understand why doctors don’t know that bilateral varicocele cause erectile dys****ion because of hormonal imbalance caused by varicocele
Invalid Link Removed
A varicocele is an enlarged (varicose) vein in the cord that connects to the testicle. Varicoceles are found in 15 - 20% of all men and in 25 - 40% of infertile men. When varicoceles occur in both testicles, they may contribute to hormone imbalances that cause erectile dysfunction.
What do you guys suggest?micro surgery.Will it improve my condition?I used to have very hgh sex drive 3 months back and good erections during sleeping.Now I lost evrything, i m very much depressed,I dont want to live .
I think varicoceles in middle aged men 25-40 is caused because of some type infection caused by the food we take, otherwise why it will happen all of a sudden.
I don’t understand why doctors don’t know that bilateral varicocele cause erectile dys****ion because of hormonal imbalance caused by varicocele
Invalid Link Removed
A varicocele is an enlarged (varicose) vein in the cord that connects to the testicle. Varicoceles are found in 15 - 20% of all men and in 25 - 40% of infertile men. When varicoceles occur in both testicles, they may contribute to hormone imbalances that cause erectile dysfunction.
What do you guys suggest?micro surgery.Will it improve my condition?I used to have very hgh sex drive 3 months back and good erections during sleeping.Now I lost evrything, i m very much depressed,I dont want to live .
DragonRider
Active member
I'm 50 and have had mine for at least 36 years. I can assure you that you will not get atrophy or kill cells, however you may have low T levels all of your life.
Believe it or not, none of the points you made are good indicators of test levels. My test levels were at 230 to 240ng/dl since I was about 14 years old and I have always had an extremely high sex drive and could grow a full beard when I was 16. I also know from a gyno exam my wife had when we were in our 20's that my sperm count was extremely high.
Even though my varicocele is large, I also only experienced a dull ache, not extreme pain.
The biggest thing I noticed about the low test levels was my inability to develop any appreciable amount of muscle even after 20 years of nonstop working out, low energy levels, depression and a general lack of the normal male drive to achieve.
All of those things self corrected with TRT.
darkblue1
Member
DragonRider,
How long are you on TRT? Do you know the reason why you have low testosterone?
Can you read my post above and give your thoughts. I have bilateral varicocele and I don't get erections now. My total test is 216. Since you said you are on TRT, Did it cause shrinkage to your testicles?
How long are you on TRT? Do you know the reason why you have low testosterone?
Can you read my post above and give your thoughts. I have bilateral varicocele and I don't get erections now. My total test is 216. Since you said you are on TRT, Did it cause shrinkage to your testicles?
DragonRider
Active member
A little over 12 years.
No. I can only speculate that it is because of the varicocele.
Yes it does, but you can keep them normal by using HCG if it is a concern. I don't use anything, cuz it doesn't bother me.
But, here is the thing you need to keep in mind. Too many idiots suggest that they shrink to the size of raisens and nothing can be further from the truth. They shrink to 2/3 or maybe 1/2 of their original size and the shrinkage does not affect performance in any way, shape or form.
If you don't want to go the TRT route, cialis will do the trick. As a matter of fact, even with TRT you may still need the viagra.
beckerj
Member
Darkblue1 - I have just read your first post here .... I think you may want to ask your urologist to perform a CT scan or MRI to rule out any issues with your kidneys and other internals .... When I went to the 2nd urologist he was concerned that I may have something going on internally and the Varicocele was a symptom of this .... I am fine there were no internal issues with my Bi-Lateral varicocele ....
I am 36, so not much older than you ....
I too had pain in my lower abdomen, depression, erectile dysfunction, pain after sex, headaches, weakness, fatigue, and a general sense of not being well ....
First I would definitely get the endocronologist into the mix and verify you do not have anything going on in the pituatary gland .... Headache can be a sign of this ....
You T level is very low .... But until you get the surgery to fix your varicocele the Testim will not help much because of the fact that all your body is in imbalance because of the varicocele ....
It is my opinion that when one has varicocele, bilateral or singular, it causes a disruption in the body .... Until the varicocele is removed the body remains in imbalance ....
I had my surgery Dec. 14 2007 for bilateral varicocele .... I felt better immediately after the surgery and was hopeful that I was going to make a full recovery .... not a month later I was feeling close, but not totally, the way I did before the suregery .... My depression came back, but not as severe and the ED issues were there but nothing that Viagra or Cialis would not resolve .... I still did not feel like myself .... I started taking nolvadex 20MG M-W-F and after 2 does of this I was feeling much better .... I went in for my 3 month follow-up and the Urologist that did the Micro-Surgery for me looked at my recent labs and said that my T were on the low side and wanted to put me on Androgel for a month and see how I get along .... I started the Androgel on April 3 2008 and 4 days later of being on it feel much better .... Still not 100% but MUCH better in my mind and sexually .... I even woke this morning with wood .... First time in a while ....
I would take this course of action ....
#1 - Talk to your GP and see if she will give you a script for Welbutrin .... I took 150MG a day for about three months as I was waiting to get into surgery to have it repaired .... It was a real life saver .... YOU NEED TO REALIZE THE WAY YOU FEEL IS NOT YOU .... IT IS THE VARICOCELE "REGARDLESS OF WHAT THE DOCTORS TELL YOU !"
#2 - Get the tests that the urologist and endocronologist want you to. ASK the urologist to verify that you have nothing going on internally that could have caused the varicocele.
#3 - Once any issues internally have been ruled in or out schedule the surgery .... I personally recomend the Micro-Surgery route as it was the one I was more comfortable with .... But there are other routes .... It is all about the way you want to recover .... I will say that from my reading the Micro-Surgery was the one that I thought had the best chance of success .... Although there are a few guys on here that have had the other surgery routes for them ....
#4 - Wait three months after you have the surgery and get your T level checks again .... If you are on the low side of normal do battle with the urologists or endos to get on HRT ....
You will want to make sure you have plenty of the welbutrin on hand as it was a real life saver for me .... I hated to take it because I hated to add yet another pill to my body but I had to do something because the varicocele was destroying me ....
I totally sympathize with you ....
PS the welbutrin is the one antidepressant that has little or no effect on libido and sexual side effects .... It had none for me .... but did make me feel so much better ....
I am 36, so not much older than you ....
I too had pain in my lower abdomen, depression, erectile dysfunction, pain after sex, headaches, weakness, fatigue, and a general sense of not being well ....
First I would definitely get the endocronologist into the mix and verify you do not have anything going on in the pituatary gland .... Headache can be a sign of this ....
You T level is very low .... But until you get the surgery to fix your varicocele the Testim will not help much because of the fact that all your body is in imbalance because of the varicocele ....
It is my opinion that when one has varicocele, bilateral or singular, it causes a disruption in the body .... Until the varicocele is removed the body remains in imbalance ....
I had my surgery Dec. 14 2007 for bilateral varicocele .... I felt better immediately after the surgery and was hopeful that I was going to make a full recovery .... not a month later I was feeling close, but not totally, the way I did before the suregery .... My depression came back, but not as severe and the ED issues were there but nothing that Viagra or Cialis would not resolve .... I still did not feel like myself .... I started taking nolvadex 20MG M-W-F and after 2 does of this I was feeling much better .... I went in for my 3 month follow-up and the Urologist that did the Micro-Surgery for me looked at my recent labs and said that my T were on the low side and wanted to put me on Androgel for a month and see how I get along .... I started the Androgel on April 3 2008 and 4 days later of being on it feel much better .... Still not 100% but MUCH better in my mind and sexually .... I even woke this morning with wood .... First time in a while ....
I would take this course of action ....
#1 - Talk to your GP and see if she will give you a script for Welbutrin .... I took 150MG a day for about three months as I was waiting to get into surgery to have it repaired .... It was a real life saver .... YOU NEED TO REALIZE THE WAY YOU FEEL IS NOT YOU .... IT IS THE VARICOCELE "REGARDLESS OF WHAT THE DOCTORS TELL YOU !"
#2 - Get the tests that the urologist and endocronologist want you to. ASK the urologist to verify that you have nothing going on internally that could have caused the varicocele.
#3 - Once any issues internally have been ruled in or out schedule the surgery .... I personally recomend the Micro-Surgery route as it was the one I was more comfortable with .... But there are other routes .... It is all about the way you want to recover .... I will say that from my reading the Micro-Surgery was the one that I thought had the best chance of success .... Although there are a few guys on here that have had the other surgery routes for them ....
#4 - Wait three months after you have the surgery and get your T level checks again .... If you are on the low side of normal do battle with the urologists or endos to get on HRT ....
You will want to make sure you have plenty of the welbutrin on hand as it was a real life saver for me .... I hated to take it because I hated to add yet another pill to my body but I had to do something because the varicocele was destroying me ....
I totally sympathize with you ....
PS the welbutrin is the one antidepressant that has little or no effect on libido and sexual side effects .... It had none for me .... but did make me feel so much better ....
darkblue1
Member
Beckerj,
They did CT scan upto pelvic region,They found nothing wrong with kidneys,gall bladder etc.,I told to eurologist that I dont feel anything down there at genitals during night time. I dont feel blood flow to that region. He said you cant see blood flow.How can i explain to him.Night time when i am asleep my testicles goes downwards, I dont feel varicoceles.and my penis becomes small and no erections. Legs become week.I think varicocele is the cause for this.Thats scares me like hell and I get up and go to rest room. But day time I had sex two times (after 2 months) with good erections. Does it mean anything? And other time, penis becomes very small. There is no random erection.
I have appointment with eurlogist this thrusday for other tests such as prolactin, FSH,LH levels. I have appointment with Endo also this week, but not sure which one to go.
Do you still feel lower abdominal pain? is it because of the pressure by varicoceles.When i lie down i dont feel pain.
There must be something wrong with pituitary i am having head ache constantly, not able to concentare at work.
They did CT scan upto pelvic region,They found nothing wrong with kidneys,gall bladder etc.,I told to eurologist that I dont feel anything down there at genitals during night time. I dont feel blood flow to that region. He said you cant see blood flow.How can i explain to him.Night time when i am asleep my testicles goes downwards, I dont feel varicoceles.and my penis becomes small and no erections. Legs become week.I think varicocele is the cause for this.Thats scares me like hell and I get up and go to rest room. But day time I had sex two times (after 2 months) with good erections. Does it mean anything? And other time, penis becomes very small. There is no random erection.
I have appointment with eurlogist this thrusday for other tests such as prolactin, FSH,LH levels. I have appointment with Endo also this week, but not sure which one to go.
Do you still feel lower abdominal pain? is it because of the pressure by varicoceles.When i lie down i dont feel pain.
There must be something wrong with pituitary i am having head ache constantly, not able to concentare at work.
angelina
New member
Hi guys,
First off, I don't want you to think I'm invading your space. I think this place is fantastic, and it's just wonderful that you can all share your stories and support each other. You really don't know how special that makes you! Having said that, I am here on a mission. My bf has bilateral varicoceles, and is having them removed on Thursday. He's only 20, but the size of the varicocele is so dramatic, that it's causing a lot of issues. It's not something we've talked about much in detail, even though I'm medically trained, because it's really none of my business. It's his body, and I respect his privacy, but honestly, that doesn't stop me from being mighty worried. He has severe pain, right into his lower abdomen, every second day at least. He's very private, and never complains when he's in pain... I don't know how he does it.
His surgery is coming up, and I'm taking time off to be with him for the op and the day after, and all weekend. I really feel for him, and I want to look after him and make him as comfy as possible during his recovery... which he thinks will only take a day or so(!) I came here to get some information to know what to expect for the surgery itself, and also to try and prepare for how to look after him. Any thoughts/ideas/suggestions? Tales of recovery? What helped what didn't?
Thanks guys.
Angelina xx
First off, I don't want you to think I'm invading your space. I think this place is fantastic, and it's just wonderful that you can all share your stories and support each other. You really don't know how special that makes you! Having said that, I am here on a mission. My bf has bilateral varicoceles, and is having them removed on Thursday. He's only 20, but the size of the varicocele is so dramatic, that it's causing a lot of issues. It's not something we've talked about much in detail, even though I'm medically trained, because it's really none of my business. It's his body, and I respect his privacy, but honestly, that doesn't stop me from being mighty worried. He has severe pain, right into his lower abdomen, every second day at least. He's very private, and never complains when he's in pain... I don't know how he does it.
His surgery is coming up, and I'm taking time off to be with him for the op and the day after, and all weekend. I really feel for him, and I want to look after him and make him as comfy as possible during his recovery... which he thinks will only take a day or so(!) I came here to get some information to know what to expect for the surgery itself, and also to try and prepare for how to look after him. Any thoughts/ideas/suggestions? Tales of recovery? What helped what didn't?
Thanks guys.
Angelina xx