If you’ve been having difficulties achieving or maintaining erections, it may be time to talk to your doctor.

If you fear you have ED, you likely want medications to correct the issues, but many men are too embarrassed to bring it up with their doctor.

Many will try over-the-counter drugs, herbal remedies, or supplements before they start seeking medical advice. 

This can be dangerous because mixing supplements with your current medications could cause even more damage.  

When you notice the early signs of erectile dysfunction, it’s time to talk to a medical professional.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition that affects millions of men of all ages each year, so it’s nothing to be embarrassed about.

If you’re ready to start a conversation with your doctor to see if an ED prescription is right for you, continue reading.

Why You Should Always See A Certified Medical Professional About ED

Having issues getting an erection every once in a while isn’t a big deal.

When it starts happening regularly, it might be time to visit your doctor.

Your doctor will review your medical history and perform a physical exam.

They may also monitor your testosterone levels, review your medications, and closely look at lifestyle factors like alcohol, smoking, and drug use.

Our sexual health evolves as we age, so it’s not at all uncommon to experience challenges along the way.

However, erectile dysfunction is often one of the common side effects of an underlying health condition.

There are plenty of physical, emotional, and mental reasons why you experience erectile dysfunction, but it can also be a sign that you have one of these severe health issues:

• Diabetes
• Cardiovascular disease
• Heart disease
• High blood pressure
• Low testosterone
• Chronic inflammation
• Obstructive sleep apnea
• Stress
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Medication side effects, like blood pressure medications

Should Anyone Avoid The ED Medication Options?

For most men, oral medication is an effective treatment for ED.

However, some of the PDE5 inhibitors shouldn’t be taken by men on nitrates (e.g., nitroglycerin, isosorbide).

The medications should be used cautiously by those taking alpha-adrenergic blockers because of the risk of low blood pressure.

Please make sure your doctor knows what medications you are currently taking before prescribing you medicine for your sexual dysfunction.

Erectile Dysfunction Medications

If you’re having issues sustaining erections, the medications we’ll talk about below should help to improve your overall sexual function.

The most well-known ED medications include:

• Tadalafil (Cialis)
• Sildenafil (Viagra)
• Vardenafil (Levitra)
• Avanafil (Stendra)

These prescription drugs increase the levels of nitric oxide in your blood.

Nitric oxide makes your blood vessels widen to help increase the blood flow, so these drugs are especially effective at widening the blood vessels in your penis.

More blood in your penis makes it much easier for you to get and maintain an erection when you are sexually aroused.

How To Talk To Your Doctor About ED Medications

The courage to raise this critical topic can elude even the most articulate men.

But the only way to get help for your ED is by talking to a medical professional.

Hopefully, these tips will help give you the confidence you need to discuss your concerns.

Rehearsing what you’re going to say at your in-person appointment might boost your confidence and comfort level to follow through.

Try one of the following:

• “I’d like to discuss ED.”
• “How do I know if I have ED?”
• “Are ED Medications right for me?”
• “I’ve been having trouble getting erections.”
• “Can I ask you about a men’s health issue?”
• “I’m having issues in the bedroom.”

Come prepared with a list of your questions for your doctor to increase the likelihood that you will get the answers you need.

Your list will also help you stay on track if you get uncomfortable during the appointment.

You should also make a list of your symptoms ahead of time.

Your ED specialist will likely ask you questions about your symptoms and other experiences to form a complete picture of your specific issues.

Writing down the details of your experiences before your appointment will help you make the most of your discussion.

Once you initiate the ED discussion, the medical professional should take it from there.

But if you sense your doctor is uncomfortable talking about ED, or you aren’t getting the information you feel you need, ask for a referral to an erectile dysfunction treatment specialist.

Are There Other Treatment Options For ED?

If an underlying medical condition is causing your ED, treating that may improve your symptoms of erectile dysfunction.

If lifestyle habits, like alcohol consumption or drug use, are causing your ED, altering those habits could “cure” your ED.

And if the medications you are taking are causing ED, adjusting the dosage or changing medication may help.

Along with the oral medications that can help ED symptoms, other treatments include medication injected directly into the penis, penile implants, a vacuum device, or surgery.

If psychological issues cause ED, counseling or therapy from a mental health professional may also help.

Choice Men’s Health Can Help With Your Erectile Dysfunction

If you think you might need medication for erectile dysfunction, it’s time to see a doctor.

Once your healthcare professional has diagnosed you with ED, they can treat it with medication so you can lead a happier, healthier life.

If you have questions about erectile dysfunction medication or anything else ED-related, Choice Men’s Health in Atlanta, Georgia, has been helping men have great sex for years.

Make an appointment with our ED Specialists to start treatment today.

They have the best treatments for erectile dysfunction that can help you reconnect with your partner. 

Schedule an appointment with our ED Specialists to get started on your Erectile Dysfunction Treatment by calling (404) 400-3717 or filling out a form here.

References:

https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/erectile-dysfunction/how-to-talk-to-your-doctor-about-erectile-dysfunction-medications

https://www.henryford.com/blog/2019/09/reasons-talk-doctor-erectile-dysfunction

https://www.health.harvard.edu/mens-health/tips-for-talking-to-your-doctor-about-ed

https://www.healthline.com/health/erectile-dysfunction-medications-common-side-effects

https://www.healthcentral.com/slideshow/questions-to-ask-your-doctor-about-erectile-dysfunction