Erectile Dysfunction Specialist

What causes erectile dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction, also known as ED or impotence, can be caused by a number of physical and mental influences. Any combination of issues with the brain, muscles, blood vessels, or nerves can result in erectile dysfunction. In most cases, ED follows a number of common physical and psychological conditions.

Some of the physical conditions known to cause ED include:

• Heart disease
• High cholesterol
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Parkinson's disease
• Alcoholism
• Smoking
• Drug abuse
• Trauma to the pelvic area (like surgery)
• Diabetes
• Obesity

Erectile dysfunction can also be caused by psychological conditions. Stress, depression, and anxiety can all lead to ED. Issues with intimate relationships can also impede on sexual function.

What treatments are available for erectile dysfunction?

The first step in treating your ED is to receive an evaluation of your condition. Your urologist at the Urology Specialist Group works with you to uncover the underlying cause of your ED so you can get on the right path to treatment. Aside from discussing your symptoms, your urologist can diagnose your condition through a physical exam, blood test, or urinalysis to check for underlying health conditions.

Some of the most common methods of treating erectile dysfunction include:

Medication

Oral medications are an effective way of treating erectile dysfunction. Most ED medications work by relaxing the muscles in your penis and increasing blood flow, allowing you to achieve an erection more easily.

Hormone therapy

Hormone therapy is an excellent option for men experiencing erectile dysfunction because of imbalanced hormones. Issues like low testosterone levels can result in reduced sex drive and ED. Hormone therapy works by balancing your hormones, allowing sexual function to resume. Your provider can administer hormone therapy in the form of a topical cream or gel, pellet, or injection.  

Penis pumps

A penis pump, or vacuum erection device, is a battery-powered instrument used to pull blood into your penis, inducing an erection. Once an erection is achieved, a tension ring can be applied around the base of the penis to keep it firm.

Lifestyle changes

Certain lifestyle factors, such as smoking and lack of physical activity, can cause or worsen erectile dysfunction. In many cases, simple lifestyle changes can result in the restoration of sexual functions.

What is a penile implant?

If other methods of ED treatment prove ineffective, penile implants are an effective way to restore sexual functions. Penile implants are surgical inserts that allow you to manually inflate your penis to achieve an erection. They are safe, easy to operate, and require minimal downtime.

If you’d like to discuss your options for treating erectile dysfunction or other men’s health concerns, call the Urology Specialist Group or schedule a consultation online today.