For some men, feeling embarrassed about erectile dysfunction (ED) is a strong deterrent to seeking medical attention. However, this attitude often delays diagnosis of serious underlying conditions, including coronary disease. Men should not be embarrassed to discuss erectile dysfunction with their doctors, because it is often a warning sign of other health problems. Whether it is a problem with sexual function, a medical condition or an underlying mental health condition, the doctor should ask about ED.
Lab tests may be needed to determine whether the cause of ED is neurological, endocrine, or vascular. Liver enzymes and blood counts are often measured as part of the diagnostic process. In some cases, a man may be suffering from a lipid profile problem or an aneurysm, a vascular issue that could impair blood flow to the penis. A doctor may also recommend a psychological exam, in which your partner is interviewed regarding the condition. Blood hormone studies may reveal abnormalities in the production and secretion of certain sex hormones in the body.
Another treatment option for men suffering from erectile dysfunction is surgery. While the surgery can lead to permanent damage to the penis, which is also a common downside of constriction rings for that matter, it is still relatively easy to recover and may even be effective for some patients. A doctor may recommend penile implants as a last resort, but they are not recommended for men with underlying cardiovascular disease or severe heart problems. Even though penile implants have a high success rate, they do carry some risks, including infection. However, overall, penile implants are a good choice for many patients who are able to undergo a procedure.
Other causes of erectile dysfunction include vascular disease and neurological disorders. Diabetes and stroke can damage nerves that send impulses to the penis. Psychological states such as anxiety and depression can contribute to erectile dysfunction. In addition, a man may be suffering from erectile dysfunction as a side effect of certain medicines. Therefore, a man should seek medical advice if he feels nervous about sex.
While some erectile dysfunction tests only give limited information, they can help your doctor choose further tests. ED affects approximately 20 million men in the United States. ED can be caused by physical or psychological factors, and a doctor will determine what course of treatment is best. If the symptoms persist, the physician may recommend prescription medication or surgical intervention. The symptoms of erectile dysfunction may vary, but an appropriate treatment will provide you with the reassurance and peace of mind you need to enjoy the intimacy of sexual intercourse.
Organic ED is a common cause of erectile dysfunction in older men. It is usually caused by clogged blood vessels, which are a symptom of an underlying condition. It is often caused by atherosclerosis, which is a clogged blood vessel in the penis. However, arteriosclerosis can also be caused by trauma to the penile arteries. Obesity, high cholesterol and cigarette smoking are common risk factors of organic ED, but these causes can be controlled.
Your doctor may use questionnaires to help diagnose ED. Often, doctors will ask about your medication use, any pelvic surgeries, and urinary problems. They may also ask questions about your climax and sexual desire. A doctor may prescribe an oral medication or refer you to a urologist for a more invasive treatment. For some men, specialized testing may be necessary. However, ED treatment typically begins with heart and vascular health. It may also include treatment of emotional problems, which may arise from past ED or from life stressors.
Penile vascular surgery is not recommended for older men. Vacuum constriction devices are a surgical option for some men, but penile vascular surgery is not an option for this age group. These devices are best suited for older males who have tried PDE5 inhibitors, ICI, or IU therapies and have failed. Several studies have shown that these implants improve the erectile function of older men, increasing sexual satisfaction and enhancing intimacy.
While the principles underlying ED treatment are the same for all men, the treatment regimens and outcomes vary by patient. The goal of treatment is to restore sexual function, improve overall health, and optimize the quality of life (QoL) of the man and his partner. The guidelines, however, recognize that every patient presents with a unique set of symptoms and underlying medical conditions. Hence, it is important to approach each patient from an ED perspective.
If a man experiences the same symptoms of ED, he may also be suffering from a condition known as anemia. Anemia is a condition where the red blood cell count is low, which affects erections. Symptoms of anemia include tiredness and an increased tendency to have erection problems. The doctor may prescribe a blood transfusion or a pill that contains a medication.
Some risk factors for erectile dysfunction include diabetes mellitus, increased age, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and use of psychotropic medications. Erectile dysfunction should be evaluated thoroughly to determine the root cause. If it is an underlying cause, behavioral modification including nutritional counseling and medication optimization should be considered first. The use of oral PDE5 inhibitors is successful for many patients and has the added benefit of not causing side effects.
While ED is more common in older men, it can strike at any age. As men age, erectile function decreases and the ability to achieve an erection is diminished. Erectile Dysfunction can cause decreased orgasms, and increase recovery time. While it is normal for a man to experience some symptoms of aging, persistent erectile dysfunction is not considered normal. It’s always important to see a doctor as soon as possible to determine the source of the problem.
Although a vascular disease can cause erectile dysfunction, a neurological disorder can lead to it. Diabetic nerves that transmit impulses to the penis can become damaged. Psychological states such as stress and trauma can also contribute to erectile dysfunction. A physician may also notice bruits in the femoral and abdominal region, or a weakened bulbocavernosus reflex. It is important to consider your patient’s medical history as it may reveal other underlying causes of the condition.
