Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction, Impotence or as it is becoming commonly
known ED is a common sexual disorder for many men. ED's
clinical definition is the inability to obtain or maintain an
erection sufficient for sexual intercourse at least 75% of the time.
Or in every day language is when you have the desire for sex but you
can't get or keep a hard enough erection. Several conditions
cause or worsen ED, including tobacco use, diabetes, hypertension,
alcohol use and even depression.
ED can be diagnosed after a thorough medical history and physical exam
with some specific lab testing. Some important questions
regarding the history are:
- Did the ED develop slowly over time or rather sudden?
- Do you still have erections at night or when you first wake up in
the morning?
- Are you having any new or significant stress with your spouse or
sexual partner?
- Do you have any medical conditions that commonly cause ED, such as
high blood pressure, frequent alcohol use, diabetes on so on?
The physical exam will focus on the reproductive system. Some lab
blood tests may be needed.
If there is no underling disorders then the ED may be treated with
medications such as
Viagra,
Levitra
or
Cialis
. If these are not successful then treatments like a vacuum pump
device, injections or a implant may be needed.
The physicians at ARFP can help diagnose ED and also any contributing
disorders. Call 227-6363 for an
appointment
.