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Questions posted in the
The Urology Forum have been answered by urologists from Henry Ford Health System and by Dr. Kevin Pho.
Question Title: chronic marijuana use and varicoceleForum: The Urology Forum
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my boyfriend has been diagnosed with a left side varicocele. I'm not sure what causes these; maybe they just happen. I was wondering however if years of daily marijuana use could promote a varicocele, since marijuana constricts the blood vessels. Is it possible the two could be linked? If not, what are the most common causes of varicoceles? = Dear Worried Thanks for your questions. Varicoceles are believed to be congenital ( born with) but very few can be acquired ( obtained during life). The most common by far is the congenital and are usually on the left side. Like varicose veins in the legs, the valves of the veins become inoperable, the flow becomes sluggish or reverses and this causes the veins to swell. It has been estimated that about 10 percent of males have a varicocele, although most are not noticeable. Marijuana has not been associated directly with varicoceles but both are well known a risk factors for male infertility, i.e. low sperm counts/ motility/ abnormal sperm morphology . More individualized care is available at the Henry Ford Hospital and its urban campuses by calling (1 800 653 6568). We can also arrange local accommodations through this number if this is your need. Please bring any physicians’ notes and lab test results that you may be able to obtain. These will help us greatly. This information is provided for general medical education purposes only. Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options pertaining to your specific medical condition.
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