If you experience problems with becoming erect on a regular basis, you aren’t alone. The National Institutes of Health estimates that nearly 30 million American men have erectile dysfunction (ED). Erectile dysfunction can affect your self-esteem and intimate relationships and could be a sign of a serious illness. Arturo Portales, DO, FAARFM, at OC Medical Tustin in Tustin, California, is a compassionate expert who can give you a confidential evaluation and provide effective treatment options. To learn more, call the office or schedule an appointment online.
Most men experience difficulty becoming erect or maintaining an erection at times, but if it happens frequently, you may have a condition known as erectile dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction can undermine your self-confidence and cause difficulty in intimate relationships. It can also be a sign of an underlying health condition.
A variety of factors can contribute to ED, and these include physical and psychological conditions. You’re more likely to experience ED if you’re over age 50, but many younger men have ED as well. Some conditions that can contribute to ED include:
You should talk with your doctor if you think you have ED because it can be a sign of a severe medical condition.
Dr. Portales will perform a comprehensive medical evaluation to determine the root cause of your erectile dysfunction. He’ll conduct a full physical examination and take a detailed health history. He’ll also order blood and urine tests. In some cases, Dr. Portales may request that you see a specialist for an ultrasound or a counselor for a psychological evaluation.
Dr. Portales has the expertise to determine the cause of your ED, and he can provide treatment options that won’t just improve your sexual health but your overall health as well.
Once your evaluation is complete, Dr. Portales will create your customized treatment plan, which may include:
If you have a medical condition that is causing your ED, Dr. Portales will first address that condition himself or refer you to a specialist if needed. He may recommend alternative treatments, such as massage, acupuncture or meditation, to help relieve stress and promote wellness. He may also recommend individual or couple’s therapy to help identify and treat emotional issues that might be contributing to your ED.
If you think you may be experiencing erectile dysfunction, don’t hesitate to seek treatment. You can schedule a confidential consultation with Dr. Portales by calling OC Medical Tustin or by scheduling an appointment online.