Receiving Treatment For Erectile Dysfunction

Accepting the fact that there is a problem that needs to be addressed by a medical professional is often times difficult for men to do. Especially when the problem involves a sexual nature. The first step of accepting that there is a problem is often the most difficult part of receiving treatment.

Making the appointment and actually showing up is a big thing for men. Often times it requires that the man reach a point of frustration that he is motivated to get answers. Sometimes it is a concerned and loving wife/partner who helps him to take this important step.

Once at the medical office, there will be forms to fill out concerning any medical history which will include a history of sexual activity and associated problems. These forms are necessary as the doctor will gather important clues. It is important that the doctor have full disclosure of any drugs prescription or otherwise that has been taken by the male involved.

After the paperwork is complete and evaluated a physical examination will take place so that the doctor can gather any physical clues concerning your issue.

There may be laboratory tests that need to be done in order to get a better picture of what is going on in your body.

After all of the paperwork, physical exam results and test results are evaluated the doctor will give you a diagnosis. If it is erectile dysfunction a treatment plan will be discussed.

Treatment plans are usually from the least invasive to the most invasive and your doctor will explain each treatment option in detail before starting any treatment.

Treatment will be a combination of lifestyle changes, like quitting smoking if you are a smoker, losing weight if you are overweight, and increasing your physical activity level if need be. Sometimes lifestyle changes is all that needs to be done to restore normal erectile function. Others may need to make these lifestyle changes and also cut back on any harmful medications that they have been taking or to change prescriptions.

Treatment may involve psychotherapy or behavior modifications.

Treatment may also include oral or locally injected drugs, vacuum devices or surgical implants. If vein or artery problems exist there may be surgery required to repair them.

Psychotherapy treatment for psychologically based ED, usually involves therapy that decreases the anxiety associated with intercourse. The male's sexual partner will usually be involved in learning techniques used to improve intimacy and stimulation. These same techniques can also be used when there are physical causes of ED to relieve tension concerning ED.

Medications used to treat ED can be either oral or injectible. If injectible they may be used directly on the penis or inserted into the urethra (tip of penis). One commonly used drug is Viagra, the first pill to be developed to treat ED. Other drugs used now are Cialis and Levitra. Men who have heart problems and take nitroglycerin should not take these ED medications because taking a PDE inhibitor along with an alpha-blocker at the same time can cause a severe drop in blood pressure.

Based on blood tests, oral testosterone may need to be taken for men who have low levels of natural testosterone. This should be used cautiously as it can cause liver damage.

There are other drugs that can be injected into the penis as well as a pellet that can be inserted into the penis to stimulate an erection. There are ongoing research for more drugs to aid in the treatment of ED.

Vacuum devices are mechanical devices that cause an erection by drawing blood into the penis.

Recommended Reading:

1. Taking Charge Of Your Erectile Dysfunction Treatment - Men report greater positive results to erectile dysfunction (ED) treatment when they are given the chance to have input and...
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