It’s common knowledge that most men are less frequent visitors to the doctor than women, and they can also find it more difficult to talk about their health issues, or even fully acknowledge the problem to themselves. This is especially true when it comes to the sensitive subject of erectile dysfunction (ED).
Most men experience ED from time to time, and even younger men can have the occasional downer in the bedroom if they are too tired, stressed, or have had too much to drink. ED becomes more common with age, as the risk factors increase and testosterone levels begin to dip.
There are over-the-counter treatments for ED that work well for the majority of men. For example, Cialis is an oral medication that can be obtained without a prescription following a short consultation with a pharmacist. It’s available to buy unbranded more cheaply online under the name tadalafil.
However, while ED can often be successfully treated with such medications, it’s important to know when it might also be beneficial to visit a doctor. Here are some of the signs that ED might be a more serious problem, and how to prepare for a doctor’s consultation.
Persistent problems with ED
When ED has changed from being an occasional blip to an ongoing problem that has persisted for three months or longer, this could be a sign of an underlying health issue. For example, because getting and maintaining an erection requires a good flow of blood around the body, it could be a sign of narrowed arteries (atherosclerosis).
Persistent ED can also be the sign of other issues such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or heart disease. Therefore it’s important to get checked over by a doctor to rule out or address hidden health problems.
ED alongside other symptoms
If you have noticed other symptoms alongside ED, it’s important to check in with a doctor rather than struggle on in silence and hope it goes away without help. For example, if your ED is accompanied by a loss of sex drive, chronic fatigue, or pain, then it may be a sign of hormonal imbalances or other issues that require medical attention.
ED when you have another chronic medical issue
Some chronic health conditions such as diabetes or heart disease make ED more likely. If you already have a long-term health issue and develop ED, it’s important to visit a doctor because it could be a sign that the condition is worsening, and your treatment plan might need adjusting.
ED when you have mental health issues
ED can be either the result or the cause of mental health problems such as depression, stress or anxiety. A doctor will be able to make an accurate diagnosis and also rule out any physical causes for depression or ED. They may also recommend psychotherapy or lifestyle changes to improve your mental health, and also to address ED.
How to discuss ED with your doctor
Understandably, men can find broaching the subject of ED with a doctor a rather uncomfortable experience. It can help to prepare what to say in advance so that you don’t waste time skirting around the subject, or duck out of mentioning it altogether. Remember that to a doctor, ED is simply a routine medical issue that is usually treatable.
If you find the prospect of talking about it too daunting, say that you are having a man’s health problem and let your doctor pick up on the cue; they will be trained to do this and are likely to respond by asking a few pertinent questions.
Be ready with answers to basic questions such as how long the problem has been going on; if it occurs every time or just in specific circumstances; if you have any other symptoms; and if you have any other chronic health conditions.
The doctor may ask you questions about your lifestyle, such as how much you smoke and drink; how much exercise you do; and what your diet is like. They may also ask you about your mental health and if you have relationship problems, stress or anxiety.
Finally, the doctor may also carry out a physical exam and take your blood pressure and heart rate. Remember that they are gathering all the necessary information to find the best treatment plan for you, and that a few moments of discomfort will be a small price to pay for better long term health.
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