What is Erectile Dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to get or maintain an erection long enough to have sexual intercourse. There are many different causes, which may include conditions that affect your blood vessels, neurological conditions, mental health conditions and injuries.
While it’s not rare for a man to have some problems with erections from time to time, ED that is progressive or happens routinely with sex is not normal, and it should be treated.
Erectile dysfunction is the most common sex problem
that men report to their doctor, affecting more than
50% of men between the ages of 40 and 70.
Symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction
Being able to get an erection sometimes, but not every time you want to have sex
Being able to get an erection, but not having it last long enough for sex
Being unable to get an erection at any time
What causes Erectile Dysfunction
The causes of erectile dysfunction vary greatly. A leading erectile dysfunction clinic in Reno, like Urology Nevada, can get to the bottom of your causes. Although you are more likely to develop ED as you age, aging does not cause ED, and ED can be treated at any age. A man’s sexual function is impacted by his vascular system (blood vessels and circulation), nervous system and endocrine system (hormones).
Conditions & disease that can contribute to ED:
- Type 2 diabetes
- Heart disease
- Atherosclerosis
- High blood pressure
- Chronic kidney disease
- Multiple sclerosis
- Peyronie’s disease
- Injury from treatments for prostate cancer, including radiation therapy and prostate surgery
- Injury to the penis, spinal cord, prostate, bladder or pelvis
- Surgery for bladder cancer
Medications that can contribute to ED:
- Blood pressure medicine
- Antiandrogens—medicine used for prostate cancer therapy
- Antidepressants
- Tranquilizers or prescription sedatives
- Appetite suppressants
- Ulcer medicines
Psychological issues that can contribute to ED:
- Fear of sexual failure
- Anxiety
- Depression and low self-esteem
- Guilt about sex
- Stress—sexual or generalized
Lifestyle factors that can contribute to ED:
- Smoking
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Using illegal drugs
- Being overweight
- Not being physically active
Your Urology Nevada physician will work with you to determine the cause of your erectile dysfunction. To begin determining a treatment plan, your physician will conduct a thorough physical and mental health exam, including questions about your medical and sexual history. Your doctor may order blood work or other tests, as well.
Learn more about ED
Physician shares his experience with erectile dysfunction
Dr. Anderson discusses erectile dysfunction symptoms and treatments
Dr. Anderson Q&A on erectile dysfunction
See us today for a better sex life tomorrow
If you’re looking for erectile dysfunction doctors in Reno, look to Urology Nevada.
Appointments are typically available within ten days.