Erectile Dysfunction Medications

Recognizing the Symptoms of ED

Recognizing the symptoms of ED can be accomplished by paying attention to changes in sexual performance and considering factors such as difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection.

Erectile dysfunction symptoms may include a consistent inability to get or keep an erection, reduced sexual desire, and trouble with ejaculation.

It is important to note that occasional difficulties in achieving or maintaining an erection do not necessarily indicate erectile dysfunction. However, if these issues persist over time and start affecting one's overall sexual satisfaction and quality of life, seeking medical advice is advisable. 

Recognizing symptoms early on allows for prompt diagnosis and treatment. By understanding the signs, individuals can take a proactive approach to addressing their ailment. 

Now that we have a better understanding of ED and some of the causes which may lead to the condition, let’s explore some of the tests and procedures doctor's use to identify ED, and some of the available treatments.

Common Tests and Procedures

Although tests may vary depending on the health care provider, approaches to diagnosing male erectile dysfunction have some procedural commonalities.

Physical exam: a physical examination assists the doctor to identify any physical anomalies or deformities that may be contributing to the patient's condition.

Hormone testing: this test permits the doctor to measure levels of male hormones. Blood tests involve sending a sample of blood to a lab where the patient's testosterone and cortisol levels are checked. Testing may also include a complete blood count to check for heart disease, diabetes or infection which may be causing or contributing to the condition.

Blood tests may also detect digestive and kidney diseases which may have an effect on hormone levels, circulation, and nerve function. Kidney problems can also lead to a toxic buildup of waste, which may also affect sexual function.

Urine test: used primary to check for diabetes, infections, or other co-morbidities which may be contributing factors to the patient's ailment. The urine and blood tests can also detect whether the patient has consumed illegal drugs or other substances which may be contributing to their erectile dysfunction.

Medical history: a recent Genome-wide Assocation (GAW) study found that the ED sufferers within the study group possessed a genetic defect in their DNA makeup involving a gene called SIM1. People with this genetic defect showed a nearly 26% higher risk of ED. A medical history work-up by the doctor can help to identify historical evidence which may suggest the patient's condition is hereditary. Any past conditions, surgeries or injuries in the patient's history, which may also be contributing factors to their ED condition, may also be identified during the medical history work-up.

Digital rectal examination: examining the prostate gland in older men is important for the early detection of prostate cancer, but some forms of prostate disease could be a contributing factor to erectile dysfunction.

Psychological examination: these tests are used to assess and identify psychological factors including excessive stress and depression which may be interfering with the patient's normal sexual desires and function.

Nocturnal penile tumescence: this procedure involves using a monitoring device to assess the quality of erections during sleep.

Ultrasound testing: this highly accurate procedure is a non-invasive imaging test that assesses blood flow in the penis. Underlying factors including arterial insufficiency or venous leakage - which may cause or contribute to erectile dysfunction - are often diagnosed using Doppler ultrasound testing.

Treatment Options for Erectile Dysfunction

1. Oral medications: prescription drugs including Viagra and Cialis, enhance the effects of nitric oxide, a natural chemical in the body that relaxes muscles in the penis. They help increase blood flow to the organ, facilitating an erection.

2. Lifestyle changes: Incorporating healthy habits like regular exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, reducing stress levels, and avoiding smoking can significantly improve symptoms of ED.

3. Vacuum erection devices: Also known as penis pumps, these devices create a vacuum around the penis to draw blood into it and form an erection. A constriction ring is then placed at the base of the penis to maintain it.

4. Penile implants: In severe cases where other treatments have failed or are not suitable, surgical insertion of penile prosthesis may be considered. These implants allow for manual control over erections and offer long-term effectiveness.

Newer Medicinal Treatments for Erectile Dysfunction

Eroxon Stimgel - sometimes referred to as Med3000 - is a relatively new product manufactured by Futura Medical. It is unique in that it is, according to its manufacturer, the first over-the-counter product (which means a doctor’s prescription is not required to purchase it). The product is purported to be a fast acting, topical ED medication. The drug is FDA approved and is in its early stages of distribution in America. Because the product is new, patients contemplating its use are strongly advised to consult their doctor or pharmacist prior to use.

How to Manage Psychological Impediments

If the doctor cannot find any significant physical or hereditary causes for a patient's ED, it may be safe to assume the condition is primarily psychological in nature. Consequently, it's important to identify and address any psychological factors which may be present.

Seeking Help from a Therapist

Working with a licensed therapist may help a patient to address any non-physical, psychological factors that are contributing to their ED. Depending on the condition, a therapist can help the patient to develop strategies for managing anxiety and reducing stress that aren't related to sex. Cognitive behavioral sexual therapy may also be employed to help patients develop new thoughts and behaviors related to sexual activity.