WHAT IS ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION?

Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is the inability to achieve or maintain an erection. It is more prevalent in men over 50 and in those that have high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, cardiovascular disease, are obese or smoke. It may have a physical or emotional cause or both.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?

Symptoms include loss of sexual desire and difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection.

HOW IS IT DIAGNOSED?

Your Esse Health Urologist will help you determine the underlying cause of your ED. Physical causes can be related to blood flow, nerve signaling, medications or other existing health conditions. Emotional causes may include depression, anxiety or stress from home, work or social situations. Your doctor will ask your medical history, including all chronic conditions, surgeries, lifestyle habits and changes in your relationships at home and work.

WHAT ARE THE TREATMENT OPTIONS?

If you have an underlying untreated medical condition, your doctor may wish to pursue treatment for that first as that may also resolve the ED. If your ED is a result of vascular or nerve issues that are part of a pre-existing chronic disease, your doctor may look at other treatment options for that disease. If no condition is interfering, then lifestyle changes may be recommended including weight loss, healthy eating and increased physical activity. Your doctor may also prescribe PDE5 inhibitors like Viagra© or Cialis©. There are additional treatment options, including testosterone therapy, self-injection therapy, vacuum erection devices or surgery. Your Esse Health Urologist will discuss which option may be right for you.