What is Erectile Dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a condition in men where it is difficult to get or maintain an erection that is firm enough for sex. This condition is very common, and is actually the most frequent sexual health complaint from men of all ages.
If you’re experiencing erectile dysfunction, know that you’re not alone, and effective solutions are available. At South Texas Urology Group, our experienced team is dedicated to diagnosing and treating ED with a range of personalized options. Reach out to us today at (210) 267-1709 to schedule an appointment in San Antonio, TX and take the first step towards reclaiming your sexual health and well-being.
ED Symptoms
Generally all symptoms of erectile dysfunction will contribute to an inability to develop or sustain an erection.
These signs may include:
- Reduced sexual desire or a lowered libido
- A decrease in interest or motivation for sexual activity
- Difficulty achieving an erection
- Inability to initiate or sustain an erection during sexual arousal
- Ejaculating sooner than desired during sexual activity
- Difficulty reaching orgasm or prolonged time to achieve ejaculation
We Can Help
If you are concerned about erectile dysfunction and how much it is impacting your daily life, we encourage you to schedule an appointment at our urology clinic in San Antonio, TX.
Causes of Erectile Dysfunction
ED normally stems from two separate categories of physical and mental health issues.
Most often, erectile dysfunction is the result of a physical problem. These can include a variety of different situations, but they typically relate to:
- Not having enough blood flow to the penis
- Problems with the nerve endings due to cancer or injury
- Side effects of medication
Other cases of erectile dysfunction may be caused by emotional or psychological issues, such as:
- Stress
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Relationship problems
- Worry about poor sexual performance
It is certainly possible for both physical and mental factors to contribute toward a single patient’s erectile dysfunction. Many people with ED discover that a physical issue will lead to stress in a relationship or about sexual performance, which can make their erectile dysfunction even more difficult to deal with.
How is Erectile Dysfunction Diagnosed?
The potentially endless circle of erectile dysfunction can be broken by speaking with a urologist about your erectile dysfunction and getting a diagnosis to understand what could be causing it to occur.
We assess erectile dysfunction by:
- Conducting a thorough review of your medical and sexual history
- A comprehensive mental health and physical examination
- Urine tests or blood tests
- Physical exam of the penis and testicles is common to be sure they look normal
- Discussion about hormones or medications
Conversations about ED with a healthcare professional may be challenging, but it’s important to keep in mind that a fulfilling sex life is integral to overall well-being. Providing your doctor with detailed information enables them to better understand your situation and increases the likelihood of successful treatment.
ED Treatment
There are multiple treatments for ED and options for each cause. Sometimes it can be as simple as changing your medications.
Treatment for ED may include:
- Medications – Prescription medications such as sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), and vardenafil (Levitra) can enhance blood flow to the penis
- Vacuum Erection Devices – Mechanical devices that create a vacuum to draw blood into the penis, facilitating an erection
- Penile Injections – Medications injected directly into the penis to induce an erection
- Penile Implants – Surgical implants that provide an artificial erection
- Lifestyle Modifications – Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding excessive alcohol and tobacco use
- Psychological Counseling -Addressing underlying psychological factors through therapy or counseling
- Intraurethral suppository– Medication inserted through the urethra to increase blood flow to the penis
Schedule an ED Appointment in San Antonio, TX Today
ED can be challenging for both individuals and their partners. Open communication, emotional support, and a willingness to explore treatment options together can contribute to a healthier and more satisfying sexual relationship. Contact South Texas Urology Group at (210) 267-1709 to schedule an appointment at our urology clinic in San Antonio, TX and find out your options to help treat ED.
