Men’s Health

Most health conditions don’t discriminate in favor of a specific sex or gender, but there are some notable exceptions. Board-certified internist Vincent Esparza, MD, at Persona Healthcare in Austin, Texas, offers dedicated services that diagnose and treat men’s health conditions. For expert help with issues like erectile dysfunction and prostate problems, call Persona Healthcare to schedule an in-person or telemedicine appointment. You can also request a men’s health checkup or symptom evaluation online at any time.

What is men’s health? 

Men’s health encompasses medical issues specific to men or conditions that more frequently affect men, even though women can occasionally experience them.

Many men’s health concerns relate to the male reproductive system, which includes the following:

• Penis
• Scrotum
• Testicles
• Urethra
• Prostate gland
• Seminal vesicles
• Bulbourethral glands
• Associated ducts like the epididymis and vas deferens

A significant number of men’s health conditions arise due to imbalances in testosterone, the primary male sex hormone. 

What are the most common men’s health conditions?

At Persona Healthcare, Dr. Esparza frequently treats several men’s health issues, including: 

Low testosterone

When testosterone levels drop too low, men may experience reduced muscle mass, chronic fatigue, and emotional changes, such as low mood or decreased motivation. Low testosterone is also a leading cause of sexual health problems, including low libido (loss of interest in sex) and erectile dysfunction. 

Erectile dysfunction (ED) 

ED refers to the inability to achieve or maintain an erection that is firm or long-lasting enough for sexual activity. 

Prostate problems

The prostate gland, which produces seminal fluid, is often affected by conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (noncancerous enlargement of the prostate) and prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate gland). 

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, often slow-growing but with some aggressive forms. Prostate cancer screening is a crucial part of men’s preventive healthcare — Dr. Esparza can guide you on the recommended frequency of exams. 

Prostate issues can cause urinary symptoms like urgency, incontinence, incomplete bladder emptying, or frequent nighttime urination. 

Testicular pain

Testicular pain can result from an injury or an internal problem. Even if you know the cause of your pain, it’s important to seek medical evaluation, as injuries can sometimes cause lasting damage. 

Testicular cancer, however, often doesn’t cause pain. To detect changes early, men should regularly self-check their testicles for lumps or abnormalities. Additionally, all men aged 20 to 54 should undergo yearly screenings at Persona Healthcare. 

What treatments are used for men’s health problems?

Dr. Esparza creates a personalized treatment plan for your men’s health problems after completing a physical exam and running appropriate tests.

One of the primary men’s health treatments is hormone therapy, specifically taking supplemental testosterone. You might also benefit from medications and lifestyle changes such as weight loss and quitting smoking.

If you experience reproductive or other men’s health problems, contact Persona Healthcare or book an in-person or telemedicine appointment online today.