Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile Dysfunction
If you’re having problems getting and/or keeping an erection hard enough for sex, you might have symptoms of erectile dysfunction (ED).
About Erectile Dysfunction
What is Erectile Dysfunction (ED)?
ED is defined as the persistent inability to achieve or maintain a penile erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance.(1)
Why is Erectile Dysfunction (ED) a problem?
ED can limit your intimacy, affect your self esteem, and impact your most important relationships. Beyond the physical manifestations, ED can cause emotional distress and may impact your quality of life.(2)
What causes Erectile Dysfunction (ED)?
ED occurs when the blood flow to the penis is interrupted or when the nerves become damaged. There are many different factors that may contribute to this and can include diabetes, heart disease, prostate cancer treatment, depression, anxiety, and the side effects of some medications. (2,4) Lifestyle habits like sleep, smoking, alcohol consumption, exercise, and diet can also affect the quality of your erection.
Erectile Dysfunction (ED) Diagnosis and Treatment
How is Erectile Dysfunction (ED) diagnosed?
If you have trouble getting an erection and/or sustaining one, it may be time to visit your doctor. A personal history and physical exam can help you and your doctor understand the underlying causes of your ED. Lab tests and other tests may identify a source such as diabetes, high cholesterol, or other conditions that affect the nerves and blood flow to the penis. Understanding what is causing your ED can help you and your doctor determine the treatment options that are right for you.
Will insurance cover my Erectile Dysfunction (ED) treatment?
While most insurers cover the diagnosis and medically necessary treatment of ED, it is important to understand that coverage may vary. Medicare has a national policy for ED, which includes penile implants. Work with your doctor's office and insurance carrier to check coverage levels prior to receiving treatment. There are financial assistance programs available to help cover out-of-pocket expenses or to help cover the procedure if your private insurance will not cover it.
Treatments for Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
There are a few different ways to treat Erectile Dysfunction (ED), including oral medications, intracavernosal injections, and vacuum erection devices. Dr. Pan provides the full spectrum of treatment options, and he has undergone dedicated training in penile implants.
A device is implanted into the penis that is intended to allow a man with ED to have an erection. The device is entirely contained in the body so no one is able to see it and is controlled by the user to achieve an erection. This treatment is designed to allow for spontaneity and the erection is maintained for as long as the man desires.
Citations
1. Erectile dysfunction. NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases http:/Aw.w_nlmnih_gov/medlineplus/erectiledysfunction.html. Accessed May 2015
2. DiMeo PJ. Psychosocial and relationship issues in men with erectile dysfunction. Ural Nurs. 2006 Oec;26(6):442-6
3. Feldman HA, Goldstein I, Hatzichristou OG, et al. Impotence and its medical and psychosocial correlates: results ofthe Massachusetts Male Aging Study. J Urol_ 1994 Jan;151(1):54-61
4. Shabsigh R, Lue TF A Clinician's Guide to ED Management. New York: Haymarket Media Inc.; 2006.
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