Erectile dysfunction (ED)

Description When a man has trou...

Description

When a man has trouble getting or keeping an erection. Erectile dysfunction (ED) is also called impotence. Occasional ED is not a cause for concern but when the problem is more consistent it could be a sign of a more serious disease and medical help should be sought. ED has many causes including psychological stress, heart disease, diabetes, previous pelvic surgery, obesity, high blood pressure, certain neurological diseases, hormonal imbalances, tobacco use, alcoholism, and medication side effects.

Symptoms

Symptoms include trouble getting an erection, problems keeping an erection, and decreased sexual drive.

Tests

Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment

Workup:
A history and physical exam will be done. The provider will look for causes of the ED and ensure it is not a sign of a more serious treatable disease.

Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Prostate specific antigen (PSA), Testosterone level

Other Specific Tests: EKG (electrocardiogram), urinalysis (UA)

Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Urology, Family Practice

Treatment

The provider will treat known causes of ED such as changing the patient's medications or correcting a hormonal imbalance. Medications that can be used include sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis) and vardenafil (Levitra). They all work the same way by increasing blood flow to the penis. They can be dangerous if taken along with medications called nitrates. Medications such as alprostadil can also be injected into the penis or inserted as a suppository. Some patients will benefit from psychological counseling as well. On occasion, surgical procedures can be helpful.