Is Your Partner Experiencing Erectile Dysfunction? Talk to Your Doctor

These days, it's difficult to avoid television commercials about drugs to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). The ads may make some people squirm, but they've increased awareness of a problem that many men may have felt uncomfortable discussing, even with their doctors.

Erectile dysfunction is the inability to get or maintain an erection. It's estimated that between 15 million and 30 million American men are affected. It is most common in men age 65 and older, but may also affect younger men.

ED is often triggered by a physical cause, and may result from conditions such as diabetes, vascular disease or stroke, an injury or as a side effect of medication. Alcohol and tobacco use, obesity, low testosterone levels, depression and stress may also contribute to ED.

Treatment Options
Fortunately, ED often can be treated successfully. The most important step anyone experiencing ED can take is to consult his doctor, who can take a medical history, conduct an exam and, if necessary, order laboratory tests to determine the
underlying cause.

Once the cause is determined, a course of treatment can begin. Options may include lifestyle changes, counseling or drug therapy.

Coping with ED
If you're worried about how ED is affecting your relationship, your partner probably is too. Whether you experience ED occasionally or on a more regular basis, being open about the condition can help your partner understand that there’s a physical and psychological side to the issue. Women can help ED sufferers by encouraging them to seek treatment and by offering their support and love.

For more information about ED, please contact the Methodist Center for Restorative Pelvic Medicine at (713) 441-5800.