Table of Contents
VI. FAQ: How Do I Start Treating Erectile Dysfunction?
Many people assume erectile dysfunction (ED) only affects older men, but that is not always true. In fact, about one in four men under age 40 experience ED. [1] Even though many men feel uncomfortable talking about it, ED is common and worth discussing with a doctor.
Erectile dysfunction means having trouble getting or keeping an erection firm enough for sex. This can happen to almost every man from time to time, and occasional erection problems are not always a reason to worry. However, ED can have several causes, and some may point to more serious underlying health concerns. [2] If you want to learn more about common misconceptions about ED, click here. Erectile dysfunction is usually a marker for overall heart health, so it is important for your doctor to closely evaluate your specific case before prescribing ED drugs like Cialis or Viagra.
Common Symptoms
Erectile dysfunction symptoms include trouble getting an erection and reduced sexual desire. ED is common and can happen occasionally, but it is important to speak with a doctor if it becomes persistent. [2] You should see your doctor if:
- You are concerned about your erections or other sexual problems, like premature or delayed ejaculation.
- You have some pre-existing conditions like heart disease or diabetes, which can be risk factors for ED.
- You are experiencing other symptoms along with your erectile dysfunction. [2]
What Causes ED?
This is a tough question to answer because every man’s ED is unique and caused by different factors. Male sexual arousal is a complex process and involves several bodily and psychological components, including emotions, blood vessels, nerves, and muscles. Stress, anxiety, and depression can also play a large part in a man’s erectile dysfunction. [2]
The male anatomy is sensitive to various changes within the body, so there are several conditions that can result in erectile dysfunction. Obesity, heart disease, and high blood pressure can cause ED. [2] Visit here to learn more about the physical and psychological causes of ED.
Diagnosing ED
Before going to the doctor to discuss your ED problems, you should make sure that you are getting the proper treatment for any other pre-existing conditions. Your doctor may order several tests to help determine what is causing your erectile dysfunction. These tests may include:
- Physical exam: Your doctor may examine the penis and testicles to look for possible physical causes of ED. Depending on your age and health risks, they may also check your heart, blood pressure, and circulation. A rectal exam may be done if your age or family history suggests the prostate should be evaluated.
- Ultrasound: An ultrasound may be used to assess blood flow to the penis. During this test, a healthcare professional uses a small wand-like device over the area being examined.
- Blood tests: A blood sample may be taken to check hormone levels, including testosterone, as well as blood sugar levels, which may indicate diabetes.
- Psychological assessment: Since mental health can contribute to ED, your doctor may ask questions about stress, depression, anxiety, or other emotional factors.
- Pelvic imaging: Tests such as arteriography, MRI, CT scans, or pelvic X-rays are not usually needed for ED, but they may be considered if there is a history of injury, trauma, or cancer.
- Nocturnal penile tumescence test: This overnight test checks whether erections happen during sleep. [2]
Oral Medications
Once the cause of your ED is identified, your doctor may prescribe an oral medication if it is safe and appropriate for you. Common oral ED medications include:
- Sildenafil (Viagra)
- Tadalafil (Adcirca, Cialis)
- Vardenafil (Levitra, Staxyn)
- Avanafil (Stendra) [2]
These medications work by increasing blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation. They do not automatically cause an erection on their own. [2]
Sexual stimulation is still needed because these medications support the body’s natural erection response. They do not increase sexual desire, and they should only be used as directed by a doctor. [2]
Before taking an ED medication, tell your doctor if you use herbal remedies, take nitrate drugs for heart problems, have heart disease, or have very low blood pressure. [2] Click here to learn more about erectile dysfunction drugs.
Alternative Treatments
Pills for erectile dysfunction usually make a marked difference for men, but there are alternative treatments for more severe cases. Some other treatments can include:
- Alprostadil self-injection: This treatment uses a very fine needle to inject alprostadil into the base or side of the penis. Alprostadil is a vasodilator, which means it helps widen blood vessels and increase blood flow. It works by acting like a natural substance in the body that helps bring more blood into the penis. The injection usually starts working within 5 to 10 minutes [3] and can help produce an erection firm enough for sex in up to 85% of people who use it. [2]
- Alprostadil urethral suppository: This treatment involves placing a small, medicated pellet of alprostadil into the penile urethra. It usually begins working within 5 to 10 minutes and may last between 30 to 60 minutes. Possible side effects include minor urethral bleeding, penile pain, and urethral burning. [4]
- Testosterone replacement: In rare cases where ED is related to low sex drive and low testosterone levels, testosterone therapy may help restore erections or improve the response to ED medications, such as PDE5 inhibitors. [2]
- Vacuum erection device: If oral or injectable ED medications are not effective, your doctor may recommend a penis pump or penile implant. A vacuum erection device uses a tube placed over the penis, while the pump creates suction that draws blood into the penis to help produce an erection. [2]
- Penile implants: This treatment is more invasive and involves surgically placing bendable rods inside the penis to keep it firm but flexible. Penile implants are usually considered when other treatment options have not worked. [2] Visit here to learn more about the long-term prognosis for persistent erectile dysfunction.
FAQ: How Do I Start Treating Erectile Dysfunction?
The first step in treating erectile dysfunction is to talk to your doctor. ED is common, but it can also be a sign of another health issue, such as heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, low testosterone, stress, or anxiety.
Your doctor will usually start by asking about your symptoms, medical history, medications, mood, stress levels, and relationship factors. They may also recommend a physical exam, blood work, urine tests, or other tests to determine the cause of the problem. Once the cause is clearer, treatment may begin with oral medications such as sildenafil (Viagra) or tadalafil (Cialis), along with lifestyle changes or treatment for any underlying health condition. If pills are not the right fit or do not work well enough, your doctor may discuss other treatment options, including vacuum devices or penile implants.
To start treating erectile dysfunction, follow these steps:
- Make an appointment with your doctor.
- Be honest about your symptoms and when they started.
- Share any stress, mood changes, or relationship concerns.
- Tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you take.
- Mention any heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, or hormone concerns.
- Complete any recommended tests to help find the cause.
- Ask whether oral ED medications are safe for you.
- Discuss other treatment options if pills are not enough.
The content in this article is intended for informational purposes only. This website does not provide medical advice. In all circumstances, you should always seek the advice of your physician and/or other qualified health professionals(s) for drug, medical condition, or treatment advice. The content provided on this website is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.