What Is E.D.?
Erectile dysfunction, or E.D., is the inability to achieve or sustain an erection suitable for sexual intercourse. Problems with erections may stem from medications, chronic illnesses, poor blood flow to the penis, drinking too much alcohol, or being too tired. Lifestyle changes, medications, and other treatments are often used to treat ED. A urologist is trained to treat this condition.
Causes of E.D.
An occasional problem achieving an erection is nothing to worry about. But failure to do so more than half of the time at any age possibly indicates a condition that needs treatment. The following causes are possible ones:
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Hypertension
- Hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol or lipids)
- Tobacco, alcohol, and recreational drugs
- Stress and anxiety
- Medications – blood pressure, pain, and antianxiety medications, as well as antidepressants
- Low testosterone
- Vascular disease
What Can I Do to Treat My E.D.?
- Start exercising
- Lose weight
- Stop smoking
- Drink less alcohol
- Eat a healthy diet
- Make an appointment to see the PeeDocs
Questions to Ask the PeeDocs About E.D.
- Does my erectile dysfunction stem from an underlying illness?
- Could any of my medications be causing this problem or making it worse?
- Could stress or a psychological problem be to blame for my erection difficulties?
- Are there other medications I can take?
E.D. Myths and Facts
Myths:
- E.D. (also called impotence) includes the notion that it is an unavoidable consequence of aging. E.D. is not considered normal at any age, nor is it normal for a man to completely lose erectile function as a result of being older.
- Tight underwear causes E.D. While physical and psychological conditions can lead toED, tight underwear? Not to blame. However, tight underwear may be a factor in producing a low sperm count.
Facts:
- E.D. can be treated with oral drugs, penile injections, or surgery (such as, penile implants).
- Intercavernosal injection therapy is a medication injected directly into the penis to treat ED and is successful in most cases, even when oral medications don’t work.
- Intraurethral therapy is a suppository medication that is inserted into the urethra to treat ED. (The trade name is MUSE.)
- Urologists are doctors specially trained to treat problems of the male and female urinary systems and the male sex organs.
Diagnosing E.D.
Because there are a variety of causes of erectile dysfunction, there are several different tests the PeeDocs may use to diagnose the condition and determine its cause. Only after the cause of E.D. is determined can it be effectively treated.
“Before ordering any tests, we’ll review your medical history and perform a thorough physical exam. I may ask you questions about your personal and sexual histories, which will be very personal and may feel intrusive. However, please answer these questions honestly. It’s important that you do.”
As for treating E.D., you may be surprised at all the options available. The PeeDocs will be sensitive and helpful in determining the best and proper course of treatment for you.
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