Burnett AL. Evaluation and management of erectile dysfunction. In: Wein AJ, Kavoussi LR, Partin AW, Peters CA, eds. Campbell-Walsh Urology. 11th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2016:chap 27.
Like many health conditions, erectile dysfunction can cause a lot of stress or shame, which doesn't help and can often exacerbate the problem further. So, there are two important things to keep in mind:
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Worries about self-image and performance can sometimes lead to erection problems, too. Instead of letting go and feeling excited, a man may focus on whether he will be able to function, and fear of failure might make it happen. He may blame the resulting problem on his medical condition, even though he might be able to have an erection if he were able to relax.
When your question is: do I have erectile dysfunction? We can answer it by examining the risk factors of ED:
Inadequate production of testosterone is not a common cause of erectile dysfunction. But, when ED does occur due to decreased testosterone production, testosterone replacement therapy may improve the problem.
ED is not a life-threatening disorder, but it can have a negative impact on your quality of life and that of your partner.
Burnett AL. Evaluation and management of erectile dysfunction. In: Wein AJ, Kavoussi LR, Partin AW, Peters CA, eds. Campbell-Walsh Urology. 11th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2016:chap 27.
Erectile dysfunction (E.D.) is often caused by blood vessel damage or suboptimal hormone levels; however, it can also be caused by stress or poor lifestyle choices such as smoking, an unhealthy diet, or not making time for physical activity.
Alprostadil should not be used in men with urethral stricture (scarring and narrowing of the tube that urine and the ejaculate pass through), balanitis (inflammation/infection of the glans [tip] of the penis, severe hypospadias (a condition where the opening of the urethra is not at the tip of the penis, rather on the underside of the penis), penile curvature (abnormal bend to the penis), and urethritis (inflammation/infection of the urethra).
National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN). Clinical practice guidelines in oncology: Survivorship [Version 2.2019]. Accessed at https://www.nccn.org/professionals/physician_gls/pdf/survivorship.pdf on January 31, 2020.
As is true in so many medical conditions, lifestyle modifications, considered first-line therapy, can have a salutary effect in ED management, and men should be encouraged to make the necessary changes to the benefit of their sexual function and to their overall health as well. Despite the benefits of behaviour modification, men presenting with ED want the physician to help with measures that can have an immediate impact.
Another potential new treatment consists of penile low-intensity shock wave lithotripsy. This consists of 1500 shocks twice a week for 3–6 weeks. The purpose is to stimulate neovascularisation to the corporal bodies with improvement in penile blood flow and endothelial function. The use of low-intensity shock wave lithotripsy may convert PDE5 inhibitor non-responders to responders.47
Erectile dysfunction is a potential complication following prostate cancer treatments. The nerves that control an erection lie very close to the prostate and may be injured during treatment. However, some men may regain their previous level of erectile function with nerve-sparing procedures. But it may take up to a year while some men may never recover their ability to have a natural erection.
Some herbal products and supplements can cause side effects or interact with other medicines. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before you try an alternative treatment for erectile dysfunction, especially if you're taking medications or you have a chronic health problem such as heart disease or diabetes.
ED is an extremely common issue and it doesn't have to be the end of your sex life. It can be treated, and even reversed, with a little help.
Oakwood Health doesn't just provide acoustic wave therapy, we offer 7 other treatment options for ED and Peyronies as well. Our strategies can also help with Premature Ejaculation and Low Testosterone. Our doctors, nurses and therapists know your sexual health is one of the most important things in your life and we take you seriously. Services Acoustic Shockwave Therapy Injectables Hormone Testing Supplements Pharmaceuticals Penis Pump Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Psychologist Financing
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