Erectile Dysfunction
Overview
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to get or keep an erection firm enough for sexual activity. It can be caused by physical factors like poor blood flow, nerve problems, or side effects of certain medications. Psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, or depression can also play a role. While it is more common in older men, ED can affect men of all ages.
Our approach
Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance. It can be a persistent condition or occur occasionally and can affect men of all ages, although it becomes more common with advancing age. Erectile dysfunction may be caused by physical, psychological, or lifestyle factors, often in combination.
Symptoms
The primary symptom of erectile dysfunction is difficulty achieving or sustaining an erection. Other related symptoms may include:
- Reduced sexual desire or libido
- Inconsistent ability to get an erection, even when aroused
- Difficulty maintaining an erection during sexual activity
- Premature or delayed ejaculation
Diagnosis
Healthcare professionals diagnose erectile dysfunction through a combination of assessments:
- Medical and Sexual History: Discussing the onset, severity, and frequency of symptoms, along with any underlying health conditions, medications, or lifestyle factors.
- Physical Examination: Assessing the penis and testes for any structural abnormalities, as well as checking blood pressure and other health indicators.
- Laboratory Tests: Blood tests to check for conditions like diabetes, low testosterone, thyroid problems, or other hormonal imbalances.
- Psychological Evaluation: Screening for stress, anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues that may contribute to ED.
- Other Tests:
- Penile Doppler Ultrasound: Evaluates blood flow to the penis to detect circulatory problems.
- Nocturnal Penile Tumescence Test: Assesses whether nighttime erections are occurring.
- Injection Test: Involves injecting medication into the penis to see if an erection occurs, indicating vascular function.
Prevention and Management
- Managing underlying health conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or heart disease.
- Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise.
- Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
- Seeking counseling for mental health issues or relationship problems.
- Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider to monitor and manage risk factors.
A multidisciplinary approach involving urologists, primary care physicians, mental health professionals, and lifestyle interventions is often necessary for effectively treating and managing erectile dysfunction.
Providers for Erectile Dysfunction
View All ProvidersLocations for Erectile Dysfunction
M Health Fairview Clinics and Specialty Center - Maplewood
M Health Fairview Urology Clinic - Burnsville
M Health Fairview Clinics and Specialty Center - Fridley
M Health Fairview Cancer Center - Burnsville
M Health Fairview Clinics and Surgery Center - Maple Grove
M Health Fairview Clinics and Specialty Center - Princeton
M Health Fairview Clinics and Surgery Center - Minneapolis
Treatments for Erectile Dysfunction
Treatment plans for erectile dysfunction are tailored to the individual and may involve a combination of the following:
- Medications:
- Oral Medications: Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors such as sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), vardenafil (Levitra), or avanafil (Stendra) to improve blood flow to the penis.
- Testosterone Therapy: For men with low testosterone levels.
- Intracavernosal Injections: Medications such as alprostadil injected directly into the penis to induce an erection.
- Urethral Suppositories: Alprostadil inserted into the urethra as a pellet to stimulate an erection.
- Lifestyle Changes:
- Quitting smoking to improve vascular health.
- Engaging in regular physical activity to improve blood flow.
- Maintaining a healthy diet and weight to reduce risk factors such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
- Reducing alcohol consumption and avoiding recreational drugs.
- Psychotherapy:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): For addressing anxiety, stress, or relationship issues that may be contributing to ED.
- Sex Therapy: Focuses on improving communication and intimacy with a partner.
- Vacuum Erection Devices: A pump used to create a vacuum around the penis, drawing blood into the shaft and creating an erection, maintained by a constrition ring.
- Surgical Options:
- Penile Implants: Insertion of inflatable or malleable rods into the penis to allow control over the timing and duration of an erection.
- Vascular Surgery: Rarely performed, but may be an option for men with specific vascular issues.
- Alternative Therapies:
- Acupuncture: Some individuals find relief with alternative treatments, though evidence is mixed.
- Herbal Supplements: Products like ginseng or L-arginine may help, but they should be used with caution and under professional guidance.
Services for Erectile Dysfunction
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