Ondoc Blog
Welcome to Ondoc’s medical info center – a trusted medical source of expert-reviewed articles, health tips, updates, and more. Stay informed and get the latest from top online doctors.
Men's Health
8 February 2025
Discover everything you need to know about men’s health, including erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, low testosterone, prostatitis, and orchitis.
Learn about causes, symptoms, cardiovascular risks, diagnosis, and treatment options to improve your overall well-being.
Understanding Erectile Dysfunction, Premature Ejaculation, Low Testosterone, Prostatitis, and Orchitis
Introduction
Men’s health is a critical yet often overlooked aspect of overall well-being. Conditions such as erectile dysfunction (ED), premature ejaculation (PE), low testosterone (Low-T), prostatitis, and orchitis can significantly impact quality of life. Understanding these conditions, their causes, symptoms, potential cardiovascular risks, and available treatments is essential for maintaining optimal health.
- Definition
Erectile dysfunction is the inability to achieve or maintain an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. It is one of the most common sexual health issues in men, particularly as they age.
- Causes
– Cardiovascular disease
– Diabetes
– Hypertension
– Obesity
– Smoking and alcohol use
– Psychological factors such as stress and anxiety
– Neurological disorders
– Hormonal imbalances (low testosterone)
- Symptoms
– Difficulty achieving an erection
– Trouble maintaining an erection
– Reduced sexual desire
- Cardiovascular Risk
ED is often an early warning sign of cardiovascular disease. Poor blood flow due to atherosclerosis (narrowed arteries) can contribute to both ED and an increased risk of heart attack or stroke.
- Diagnosis
– Physical examination
– Blood tests to check testosterone levels, cholesterol, and blood sugar
– Ultrasound to assess blood flow to the penis
– Psychological evaluation if stress or anxiety is suspected
- Treatment Options
– Medications: PDE5 inhibitors (Viagra, Cialis, Levitra)
– Lifestyle changes: Exercise, diet, smoking cessation
– Psychotherapy: For psychological causes
– Hormone therapy: If low testosterone is detected
– Medical devices: Vacuum erection devices
– Surgical options: Penile implants in severe cases
- Definition
PE is the inability to control ejaculation, occurring too quickly during sexual activity, often within one minute of penetration.
- Causes
– Psychological factors (stress, anxiety, depression)
– Hormonal imbalances
– Inflammation or infection of the prostate or urethra
– Genetic predisposition
- Symptoms
– Ejaculation with minimal stimulation
– Distress and frustration related to early ejaculation
– Decreased sexual satisfaction
- Diagnosis
– Medical history assessment
– Physical examination
– Psychological evaluation
- Treatment Options
– Behavioral therapy: Techniques like the stop-start method
– Medications: SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) such as paroxetine, dapoxetine. Clomipramine as needed
– Topical anesthetics: Numbing creams or sprays
– Psychotherapy: Addressing underlying anxiety or relationship issues
- Definition
Low testosterone, or hypogonadism, occurs when the body produces insufficient testosterone, leading to various physical and emotional changes.
- Causes
– Aging
– Obesity
– Chronic illnesses (diabetes, kidney disease)
– Hormonal disorders
– Testicular injuries
– Certain medications
- Symptoms
– Low sex drive
– Fatigue
– Loss of muscle mass
– Depression or irritability
– Erectile dysfunction
- Diagnosis
– Blood tests to measure testosterone levels
– Physical examination
– Medical history review
- Treatment Options
– Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT): Gels, injections, patches
– Lifestyle changes: Weight loss, exercise
– Medication adjustments: If current medications are affecting testosterone levels
Definition
Prostatitis is the inflammation of the prostate gland, which can cause pain and urinary issues.
- Causes
– Bacterial infections
– Autoimmune disorders
– Pelvic muscle dysfunction
- Symptoms
– Pain in the groin, pelvic area, or lower back
– Painful urination
– Frequent urination
– Fever and chills (in bacterial prostatitis)
- Diagnosis
– Urinalysis and urine culture
– Prostate fluid tests
– Imaging studies (MRI, ultrasound)
- Treatment Options
– Antibiotics: For bacterial prostatitis
– Pain relievers: NSAIDs
– Alpha-blockers: To relax the prostate muscles
– Physical therapy: For chronic pelvic pain syndrome
- Definition
Orchitis is the inflammation of one or both testicles, often caused by viral or bacterial infections.
- Causes
– Mumps virus
– Bacterial infections, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
– Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Symptoms
– Swelling and pain in one or both testicles
– Fever
– Nausea
– Painful urination
- Diagnosis
– Physical examination
– Urine and blood tests
– Ultrasound to assess testicular inflammation
- Treatment Options
– Antibiotics: If caused by a bacterial infection
– Pain relievers: NSAIDs
– Supportive care: Rest, ice packs, scrotal support
Conclusion
Men’s health conditions such as erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, low testosterone, prostatitis, and orchitis can impact quality of life and overall well-being. Early diagnosis and proper treatment can help manage symptoms and improve long-term health. If you’re experiencing any symptoms, consult a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action.
For more information or to book an online consultation, visit Ondoc.com
Sign up for blog updates!
Join my email list to receive updates and information.