Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
Erectile dysfunction (ED), commonly referred to as impotence, is the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance. It is a common condition that affects men of all ages but becomes increasingly prevalent with age. ED can have significant psychological and emotional effects, impacting self-esteem, relationships, and overall quality of life.
Causes of Erectile Dysfunction
ED can result from a variety of physical and psychological factors:
Physical Causes:
- Cardiovascular Diseases: Conditions like hypertension, atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), and high cholesterol can impair blood flow to the penis.
- Diabetes: Diabetes can damage blood vessels and nerves essential for an erection.
- Obesity: Excess weight can lead to cardiovascular problems and diabetes, contributing to ED.
- Hormonal Imbalances: Low levels of testosterone or other hormonal disorders can affect sexual function.
- Neurological Disorders: Conditions such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and spinal cord injuries can interfere with nerve signals.
- Medications: Certain drugs, including antidepressants, antihypertensives, and medications for prostate conditions, can cause ED as a side effect.
- Substance Abuse: Excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, and illegal drug use can lead to ED.
Our collaborative, multi-disciplinary practice to resolving health issues leads to earlier diagnosis and treatment, well-managed holistic care, and improved outcomes for our patients.
Popular GP services include:
- Appointments for all medical conditions
- Chronic condition management
- Diagnostic tests including blood tests and imaging referrals
- PCR testing in our own laboratory for rapid diagnosis of respiratory infections, STIs, diarrhoea, and Covid-19
- Prescriptions and specialist medical referrals
To make a booking with one of our GPs, simply select the duration of the appointment you would like; any additional services can be paid for on the day of your appointment.
We have both male and female doctors; if you have a preference, or if you require a chaperone or have any mobility issues, please let us know when booking, so we can make the necessary arrangements.
We aim to provide exceptional health care, each step of the way, and to support you in living a healthier life.
Treatments for Erectile Dysfunction
Treatment for ED depends on the underlying cause and can include lifestyle changes, medications, therapies, and surgical options:
Lifestyle Changes
- Exercise: Regular physical activity improves blood flow and reduces stress.
- Healthy Diet: A balanced diet supports cardiovascular health and overall well-being.
- Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.
- Smoking Cessation and Limiting Alcohol: Reducing or eliminating smoking and excessive alcohol intake can improve ED symptoms.
Medications
- Oral Medications: Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors like sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), and vardenafil (Levitra) enhance blood flow to the penis.
- Hormone Therapy: Testosterone replacement therapy may be recommended for men with low testosterone levels.
- Injection Therapy: Medications injected directly into the penis can induce an erection.
Devices
- Vacuum Erection Devices: These devices create a vacuum around the penis, drawing blood into the penile chambers to induce an erection.
- Penile Implants: Surgically implanted devices can provide a permanent solution for ED when other treatments are ineffective.
Psychological Counseling
- Therapy: Counseling or therapy can address psychological factors like stress, anxiety, and depression.
- Couples Therapy: Working with a therapist can help improve communication and resolve relationship issues.
