Help is here for men struggling with erectile dysfunction, or ED

Erectile dysfunction, or ED, is defined as difficulty getting or maintaining an erection that is firm enough for sex. It is the most commonly reported sex problem in men. The men who come to see our Austin urologists with this problem include those who cannot produce an erection at any time; those who sometimes, but do not always, achieve an erection; and those with difficulty keeping an erection during sex.

Throughout adulthood, it is common for a man to have difficulty with getting or keeping an erection. But, if it becomes worse or occurs over an extended period, it should be addressed with a urologist.

What causes erectile dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction is not a disease, but rather the result of something else going on with a man physically, mentally or emotionally.

Often ED results from one or more of these causes.

• Existing diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease or high blood pressure
• Existing conditions, such as nerve damage or trauma to the penis, spinal cord, pelvis, bladder or prostate
• Side effects of medication
• Stress, anxiety or depression
• Lifestyle choices, such as smoking, illegal drug use, excessive alcohol intake or being overweight

How do our Austin urologists treat ED?

When a patient is experiencing erectile dysfunction, our Austin urologists’ first step is to find the root cause and begin to address that problem. Resolving the underlying issue improves your overall health, which can improve your sexual health.

To identify the cause of ED, we start by documenting a man’s medical history, and typically also perform a physical exam and a stress and emotional evaluation. We may also order lab tests.

Based on the results of this evaluation, your urologist will determine the next steps for treating the underlying cause of your ED. You may be advised to start with making lifestyle changes to improve your overall wellbeing and sexual health.

• Improve your heart and vascular health, which may include a referral to a cardiovascular specialist
• Eat a healthier diet, stop smoking or eliminate alcohol
• Care for your mental and emotional health, which may include a referral for professional support

To directly address erectile dysfunction, a variety of treatment options are available. Oral medications or testosterone therapy might be beneficial. Other options include injectable treatment and vacuum erectile devices.

Surgical procedures to correct this disorder include penile implants or vascular surgery for men with pelvic trauma.

Erectile dysfunction does not have to end your sex life. Contact North Austin Urology to make an appointment to be evaluated by one of our Austin urologists.