ED

What is erectile dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction occurs when you’re unable to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for intercourse. While it’s normal to have the occasional issue with an erection or sexual performance, if you have prolonged symptoms that disrupt your well-being or relationship, you should seek medical assessment and treatment from the experts at Pacific Northwest Urology Specialists.

What causes erectile dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction has a wide range of potential physical and psychological causes. For example, some of the physical issues that contribute to erectile dysfunction include:

• Heart disease
• Clogged blood vessels
• Hypertension
• High cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Prostate cancer

You may also have erectile dysfunction if you have a mental health condition such as depression or anxiety. Stress and relationship problems can also interfere with your ability to have an erection.

Some of the risk factors for erectile dysfunction include:

• Tobacco use
• Excessive alcohol use
• Certain medical conditions, especially heart disease and diabetes
• Medications such as antidepressants, antihistamines, or blood pressure medicines

If you have concerns about erectile dysfunction and have a medical condition like diabetes or heart disease, you should schedule an appointment for diagnosis and treatment right away.

How is the cause of erectile dysfunction diagnosed?

The team at Pacific Northwest Urology Specialists provides comprehensive exams and consultations to identify the condition causing your erectile dysfunction. In addition to a physical exam, they order blood and urine tests. Your provider may also suggest an ultrasound to examine the blood vessels leading to your penis.

During your consultation, your provider asks about your symptoms as well as your overall health and wellness. You may be asked some questions to screen for psychological issues like depression.

How is erectile dysfunction treated?

The physicians at Pacific Northwest Urology Specialists offer customized treatments to resolve your ED. They often begin with conservative treatments including prescription medications to increase blood flow to your penis by stimulating a specific neurotransmitter.

If medication isn’t effective, your provider may suggest a vacuum erection device, intracavernosal injections, or intraurethral suppositories. If these procedures still don’t resolve your ED, your provider can implant a penile prosthesis, a permanent ED solution.

Call Pacific Northwest Urology Specialists or schedule a consultation online today for expert diagnosis and treatment for erectile dysfunction.

Coloplast Webinar: Erectile Dysfunction Treatment Options
Presented by Dr. Daniel Reznicek

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