Erectile dysfunction is a condition that affects many men, and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved several treatments for it. The most common treatments are PDE type 5 inhibitors, which are oral medications that increase penile blood flow. These drugs are usually taken an hour or two before sexual activity for best results. Studies have shown that around 70% of men who take these medications experience improved erections.
However, response rates may be lower for those with diabetes or cancer. Shockwave therapy is another option for treating erectile dysfunction, and initial results can be seen within a few weeks. While research is still ongoing, it is unclear how long the effects of this treatment will last or if additional treatment will be needed in the future. Oral medications typically take about an hour to start working and can last up to 36 hours.
Common causes of erectile dysfunction include vascular disease, surgery, diabetes, and certain medications. Testosterone replacement therapy may be recommended in combination with other treatments, depending on the individual's symptoms. A physical exam and medical history are usually enough for a doctor to diagnose erectile dysfunction and recommend treatment. Men who have undergone prostate cancer treatment may experience erectile dysfunction in the first few months after treatment, but recovery is possible with proper follow-up care.
Penile implants are another surgical option for treating erectile dysfunction. Injectable medications can also be used to induce an erection if other treatments are not successful. Surgery is associated with an immediate loss of erectile function, while radiation therapy does not cause this side effect. Many patients prioritize preserving natural erectile function when considering different treatment options for prostate cancer.
If stress or anxiety is causing the erectile dysfunction, counseling may be recommended. If you have ongoing problems with erectile dysfunction, it is important to see a doctor to find out what is causing it and to get the right treatment. Shockwave therapy is a newer treatment option that uses sound waves to stimulate penile tissue and improve blood flow, which can help speed up the healing process. After months of erectile dysfunction, many patients are skeptical that they will regain their potency, but there are great treatments available that can help.
