No one understands the value of personalized, compassionate treatment better than our patients. Hear from the individuals whose lives have been changed for the better thanks to Chesapeake Urology's Erectile Dysfunction Program.
If you have erections in the morning or at night while you sleep, it is likely not a physical cause. Most men have 3 to 5 erections at night that last about 30 minutes. Talk with your provider about how to find out if you have normal nighttime erections.
.
Reduction of “bad” cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein or LDL) levels in the blood, as well as the total level of cholesterolReduction in body weight (obesity is associated with cardiovascular disease) Increase in insulin sensitivity (exercise increases the body’s ability to control glucose levels in the blood)Increase in “good” cholesterol (high-density lipoproteins)
Surgical or radiation treatments for prostate cancer, bladder cancer, or prostate enlargement (BPH) can sometimes damage nerves and blood vessels near the penis. Occasionally, the nerve damage is permanent and the patient requires treatment to achieve an erection. Sometimes, surgery causes temporary erectile dysfunction that improves on its own after 6 to 18 months.
The penis contains three cylinders, the two corpora cavernosa, which are on the top of the penis (see figure 1 below). These two cylinders are involved in erections. The third cylinder contains the urethra, the tube that the urine and ejaculate passes through, runs along the underside of the penis. The corpus spongiosum surrounds the urethra. Spongy tissue that has muscles, fibrous tissues, veins, and arteries within it makes up the corpora cavernosa. The inside of the corpora cavernosa is like a sponge, with potential spaces that can fill with blood and distend (known as sinusoids). A layer of tissue that is like Saran Wrap, called the tunica albuginea, surrounds the corpora. Veins located just under the tunica albuginea drain blood out of the penis. SLIDESHOW Erectile Dysfunction (ED) Causes and Treatment See Slideshow Readers Comments 5 Share Your Story
Your doctor might perform a combination of different exams to determine if you have erectile dysfunction (ED).
Picture of rigid penile implant. Two rigid cylinders have been placed into the penis. This type of implant has no inflation mechanism but provides adequate rigidity to the penis to allow penetration.
“Kegel exercises for men: understand the benefits.” Mayo Clinic. Retrieved from: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/mens-health/in-depth/kegel-exercises-for-men/art-20045074
Erectile dysfunction can be a warning sign of serious underlying disease. Research has found that erectile dysfunction is a strong predictor of heart attack, stroke, and even death from cardiovascular disease. All men with erectile dysfunction should be evaluated for cardiovascular disease. Notably, this does not mean every man with erectile dysfunction will develop heart disease, or that every man with heart disease has erectile dysfunction; however, erectile dysfunction patients should be aware of the link.
Men can have several types of issues including poor sex drive and problems with ejaculation. But ED refers specifically to trouble getting or keeping an erection. You might have a healthy sex drive, but a body that won’t respond. Most of the time there is a physical basis for the problem.
Did you know that diabetes can contribute to erectile dysfunction and other men’s health conditions? Find out more about why treating your diabetes is important. Get more education on diabetes awareness.
Yes, urologists treat erectile dysfunction (ED). They are specialized doctors who treat disorders of the urinary tract and male reproductive system. Since ED is an inability to get or maintain an erection for penetrative sex, that would fall under the urology category.
It’s important to tell your doctor about all the drugs you take, including nonprescription ones, so they can determine if any of your meds could be responsible for your symptoms.
What causes low testosterone (low T)? Learn about low testosterone symptoms in men. Discover low testosterone treatment and the signs of low testosterone.
Researchers have known for a long time that when a man has too much to drink, he can struggle to perform sexually. What few people realize is that heavy drinking has a long-term impact on a man’s ability to achieve erections, not just on the night in which he over-imbibes.
Doctors are more and more convinced that sexual health is directly correlated to overall health. A recent study showed that 44% of men who suffer from erectile dysfunction experience this problem because of health complications like diabetes and hypertension (high blood pressure).
Erectile dysfunction or impotence is a man's inability to achieve and maintain a penile erection suitable for sexual intercourse.