A physical examination and answering questions (medical history) are typically all that are required for a doctor to recognize erectile dysfunction and recommend a treatment. If you have persistent health problems or your doctor suspects that an underlying condition is to blame, you may require further tests or a consultation with a specialist.
Tests for underlying issues might include:
- Blood tests. A blood sample may be sent to a lab for testing for heart disease, diabetes, low testosterone levels, and other health issues.
- Urine tests (urinalysis). Urine tests are similar to blood tests in that they’re used to look for indicators of diabetes and other underlying health problems.
Treatment
The first step your doctor will take is to ensure that you are receiving the appropriate therapy for any health issues that might be causing or exacerbating your erectile dysfunction.
Depending on the cause and extent of your erectile dysfunction, as well as any underlying health issues, you may have a variety of treatment choices. Your doctor can explain the advantages and disadvantages of each therapy, as well as your preferences. Your partner’s preferences may also influence your treatment options.
Oral medications
Many men benefit from taking premature ejaculation pills. They are as follows:
- Vardenafil
- Avanafil
- Sildenafil
- Tadalafil
The four medicines work in tandem to boost the activity of nitric oxide, a natural chemical produced by your body that relaxes penis muscles. This raises blood flow and makes you have a good erection in response to sexual stimulation.
Taking one of these pills will not cause an immediate erection. Sexual stimulation is necessary to induce the production of nitric oxide from your penile nerves.
In most cases, the normal penile response is enhanced by these drugs, allowing some individuals to achieve typical penile function. Oral erectile dysfunction medicines are not aphrodisiacs, do not cause excitement and are not required in those who obtain normal erections.
Different antidepressants have varying dosages, durations of action, and associated adverse effects. Flushing, nasal congestion, a headache, visual abnormalities, back discomfort, and an upset stomach are all possible side effects.
Your doctor will examine your condition and decide which drug is best for you. These drugs may not cure your impotence right away. You may need to work with your doctor to find out which medicine and dosage are ideal for you.
Before using any erectile dysfunction medication, whether over-the-counter supplements or natural treatments, consult your doctor. Erectile medications do not work in all individuals and may be less effective in certain situations, such as after prostate surgery or if you have diabetes.
Other medications
The following are examples of other treatments for erectile dysfunction:
- Alprostadil self-injection. You can use this technique (Edex) to inject alprostadil (Caverject, Edex) into the base or side of your penis. Some medications are used in isolation or in combination for penile injections. Alprostadil and phentolamine are two examples. These combination drugs are frequently known as bimix (if two medicines are included) or trimix (if three medications are included) because they contain two, three, or more active ingredients.
- each shot is administered at the same strength to create an erection lasting no longer than an hour. Because the needle is so small, discomfort at the injection site is usually minor.
- Minor bleeding from the injection, persistent erection (priapism), and fibrous tissue growth at the injection site are all possible side effects.