Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

What Is ED?

Erectile dysfunction, or ED, 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, hormonal issues, 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 ED

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:

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 ED?

Start exercising
Lose weight
Stop smoking
Drink less alcohol
Eat a healthy diet
Make an appointment to see the PeeDoc

Questions to Ask Your Doctor about ED

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?
Are my hormones normal?
Can this be fixed?

What are My Treatment Options?

Diet, Exercise, Hormone Optimization

Medications: Viagra, Cialis, Levitra, Stendra (There are low cost options available now!)

Penile Pump: We can prescribe a pump, this is a vacuum device that brings venous blood into the penis.

Injection Therapy: Sounds painful but you only feel a little prick (Sorry, couldn't resist). This is a very low-cost option and works well when medications don't.

Penile Ultrasonic Sound Wave Therapy: Much advertised but not covered by insurance. This treatment sends sound waves into the penis which stimulate improved blood flow.

Penile Prosthesis: This is a surgical option and is a great choice for sexually active men when medications don't work or are inconvenient.