Erectile dysfunction is defined as the inability to get or maintain an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. With regard to sexual health, erectile dysfunction is the most reported problem by men to their doctor. It is estimated that as many as 100 million men worldwide have ED, however as many as 85% do not report it. Many men believe aging is the only cause, but that’s not exactly true. In most cases, men are prescribed the “little blue pill,” but what are treatment options for erectile dysfunction when pills don’t work?
Diagnosis of Erectile Dysfunction
If you are wondering about ED, see an experienced urologist who diagnoses and treats ED like Dr. Mercado.
One test is a Penile Doppler Ultrasound which will diagnose the root cause of erectile dysfunction: blood flow in the penis. This is done accompanied by a physical exam, urine and blood tests, and maybe an overnight test.
Once other medical issues are eliminated, Urologist Dr. Miguel Mercado can make a definitive diagnosis.
Pill Problems
Sometimes the pills for ED don’t work. In addition, certain men cannot take this prescription due to side effects and other health issues including: severe heart disease or heart failure, low blood pressure, and those who take nitrate meds for chest pains. There must be some other alternatives.
You can try lifestyle changes like stopping smoking, exercise, pelvic floor exercises, stress management, and diet.
If you are among the men who do not respond to pills for ED, cannot take them due to other health problems, and if lifestyle changes don’t help, there are other options.
What Are Treatment Options for ED Aside From Medication?
Medical science and technology always have an answer. If you have ED, maybe one or more of these alternatives will help.
Vacuum Erection Device (VED)
A vacuum erection device, or VED, is sometimes known as a penile pump. Using suction it manually pulls blood into the penis. A tension ring is slipped onto the base of the penis to maintain the erection. Side effects include some restriction of the ejaculation, a cold penis to the touch, and mild bruising.
Drug Pellets
Drug pellets inserted into the tip of the penis are like suppositories. They take about 10 minutes to work, and can last 30 to 60 minutes. Side effects include a burning sensation and minor bleeding from the penis.
Penile Injections
Penile injections are another option. These meds improve blood flow even better than pills. Side effects can include some bleeding and minor pain at the site of the injection, longer erections than you desire, and scar tissue within the penis.
Penile Implants
Penile implants involve a 30 to 45 minute procedure to place a device inside the penis which you control. You then have the ability to create erections and decide how long they last. This option has high satisfaction results.
Shock Wave Therapy
Another option is a high frequency and low intensity shock wave treatment directed at the penis with a handheld device. It works to increase blood flow by eliminating plaque in existing blood vessels and increases the growth of new blood vessels. It is painless and after a series of treatments, it can last up to 3 years with some minimal maintenance.
Erectile Dysfunction Specialist in The Woodlands, TX
Contact Urologist Dr. Miguel Mercado at (281) 351-5174 if you would like to discuss any of these treatment options for erectile dysfunction and find out if they could be right for you.