Erectile Dysfunction Treatment in Lafayette, LA

Erectile dysfunction is the inability to get or keep an erection to have successful intercourse. Approximately 94 million men worldwide suffer from erectile dysfunction and, most importantly, nearly every man who has the condition can be helped. Talking with your urologist is the first step in getting the proper treatment for erectile dysfunction. Treatment begins with a physical exam that can include an examination of your vascular system, nervous system, thyroid, prostate, and genitals.

The board-certified urologists at Southern Urology provide comprehensive testing and treatment for erectile dysfunction. Our urologists will provide a treatment plan based on your individual condition and symptoms. Learn more about erectile dysfunction and call Southern Urology at (337) 233-6665 to schedule your consultation today.

Treatment Options for ED

Psychological considerations

If your physician suspects a psychological cause for erectile dysfunction, he or she may suggest treatment from a psychiatrist, psychologist, sex therapist or marriage counselor. It is important to understand that counseling can many times identify and solve many underlying psychological issues causing erectile dysfunction. Such counseling may also be a part of a recommended regimen to treat the problem.

What Is Erectile Dysfunction (ED)?

Erectile dysfunction, or male impotence, is the inability to get or keep an erection to have successful intercourse.

What Causes ED?

Several factors can cause erectile dysfunction including age, weight management issues, medications, or current medical conditions that you may be dealing with.

Lifestyle changes that can Help ED

When considering lifestyle changes as an approach to correct erectile dysfunction, consideration of habits that may be contributing to the condition need to be addressed. These include:

• Decreasing or limiting the consumption of alcohol
• Dietary changes to reduce the intake of fat and cholesterol
• Eliminating the use of tobacco and substance abuse
• Losing weight
• Exercising regularly

Medication changes

A physician’s review of the medications you are presently taking may result in changes to them especially if they are known to cause erectile dysfunction.

Drug therapy

Non-invasive treatments that include the use of oral medications such as Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra are all proven to improve blood flow to the penis by working directly on the blood vessels. They allow the arteries to expand to produce an erection. Note that while widely available today, they do not work for 20 to 30 percent of men.

Devices

Vacuum pump therapy may be prescribed as a non-invasive alternative. The pump device is placed over the penis and a vacuum is created mechanically enhancing the flow of blood into the penis. A rubber ring placed at the base of the penis helps to maintain the blood maintaining the erection. These cannot be prescribed for patients with bleeding disorders, are on anti-coagulants, or those with sickle cell anemia.

Transurethral therapy

The patient inserts a small dose of medication directly into the urethral opening at the end of the penis where the medication becomes absorbed into the erectile tissue. This causes the blood vessels to relax so that the penis fills with blood and becomes erect.

Injection therapy

For this treatment, the patient or his partner injects medication directly into the base of the penis. It relaxes muscle tissue and allows blood to flow into the penis creating an erection.

Surgery (Penile Implants)

If the above treatments are unsuccessful in managing erectile dysfunction and psychological causes are ruled out, your physician may recommend penile implant surgery. The implant, called a penile prosthesis, is contained within the body. Considerations for choosing the appropriate implant include medical condition, lifestyle, personal preference, and cost. As with all surgeries, there are associated risks that include pain, infection, and other complications.

Are These Treatment Options the Same for All Men?

Almost all men that suffer from ED are eligible for all of these types of treatment. However, if you suffer from a cardiac disease or have a family history of heart disease, we strongly recommend consulting with your doctor before taking any medication or having any procedures.