Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the condition where a person is unable to get and keep an erection firm enough to have sex. This situation can cause a great deal of inconvenience in your sex life and affect your relationships with your partner. If you are experiencing ED symptoms repeatedly, it might be time to talk to your doctor about them. It can feel awkward and embarrassing to talk about; however, know that ED is a common condition.
To understand the severity and possible treatment options for your condition, it is important to talk to your doctor. You can take an active role in your care by expressing yourself completely and asking important questions.
Here are some of the tips that will make it easier to talk to your doctor:
- First thing to do is make an appointment. Write down all the questions so you don’t forget them before you ask.
- While preparing, you can make note of your symptoms a week before, such as
- How many times were you not able to hold an erection recently
- How long do the erections last, etc.
- Start your conversation in general so that you won’t feel pressure, like
- I would like to talk about my intimate relationship
- I want to ask you about men’s health issues
- I’m having trouble getting an erection
You may want to consider asking the following:
What might be causing my ED?
Some of the things that might cause erectile dysfunction can vary widely. The risk of developing ED increases with age. Below is a list of possible reasons.
- Alcohol consumption
- Stress or relationship issues
- Medical conditions like high blood pressure, kidney failure
- Medications like Diuretics, Antidepressants, and Antihistamines
What are the symptoms I might experience if I have ED?
Erectile dysfunction symptoms might include:
- Reduced sexual desire
- Premature ejaculation
- Inability to achieve or keep an erection
- Low testosterone levels
Early signs of ED could often go unnoticed. These could sometimes be the first signs of a more serious medication condition such as – prostate cancer.
What diagnostic tests will I need?
Erectile dysfunction can be diagnosed by the following:
- History of patient’s medical or sexual health: Proper examination will help distinguish among problems with erection, ejaculation, orgasm, or sexual desire.
- Physical examination: By performing a physical examination your health care professional will able to diagnose the cause of ED.
- Laboratory tests: These include complete blood picture (CBP), liver and kidney function tests, lipid profile, urinalysis, blood hormone studies, etc.
Your sex life doesn’t have to suffer or end because of ED. Medications and lifestyle modifications can help prevent and overcome the discomfort ED causes. Ask your doctor why a certain treatment seems right for you. It may feel uncomfortable at first to talk with your doctor about ED. But starting the conversation is worth it.
References:
- How do I talk to my doctor about erectile dysfunction?
https://www.healthymale.org.au/news/how-do-i-talk-to-doctor-about-erectile-dysfunction - Erectile dysfunction – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/erectile-dysfunction/symptoms-causes/syc-20355776 - Talking to Your Doctor About Erectile Dysfunction (Impotence)
https://www.winchesterhospital.org/health-library/article?id=19421
