Masturbation generally does not cause varicocele. Patients with varicocele may have abnormal venous valve function in the spermatic cord, leading to reflux of venous blood; or it may be caused by the renal vein being compressed when entering the abdominal aorta, resulting in poor blood drainage in the spermatic vein. When varicocele occurs, some patients may not exhibit noticeable symptoms and only discover the condition during a physical examination. However, other patients may experience significant symptoms, typically presenting as discomfort or a dragging sensation in the scrotum on the affected side, especially after long periods of walking or standing. The pain usually becomes more pronounced in these situations, but symptoms tend to alleviate when lying flat.