What is erectile dysfunction?
Sexual intimacy is an important part of a relationship, but about 50% of men over the age of 50 suffer from erectile dysfunction (ED), which is the inability to get or maintain an erection. Although a lot of fun has been poked at this issue, it has real implications in terms of self-esteem, couple intimacy, and even physical health. In addition, many men may suffer from decreased hormones as a result of aging, chronic stress, etc.
What causes erectile dysfunction?
Male sexual arousal is a complex process that involves the brain, hormones, emotions, nerves, muscles and blood vessels. Factors that contribute to ED include the following:
•Health problems such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and obesity
•Low testosterone
•Tobacco or alcohol use
•Treatments for prostate cancer or enlarged prostate
•Surgery
Does size matter?
You may have seen late night television advertisements about herbal remedies that promise to increase the size of a man’s penis. These treatments can be dangerous and create serious health problems. Some men even turn to surgical enhancement procedures performed in clinics in other countries. These questionable procedures can lead to permanent disfigurement. Much research has shown that men have no idea what “normal” is and women are more interested in intimacy and function versus size. Treatments, especially surgical ones, for enlargement have uniformly disappointing results and should be condemned.
About the U of U Health Care Urology Specialty Clinic
Issues like ED and size are sensitive topics for men to discuss with their doctor, and many men attempt to self-treat, which often leads to problems. Legitimate, safe and effective treatments are available. Often, this issue can be resolved by treating underlying medical conditions. In addition, attempting to treat self treat while ignoring underlying medical issues can be dangerous.
William Brant, M.D., specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of complex urologic reconstruction, urinary incontinence, erectile dysfunction, and sexual health. He has the only specialty clinic of its kind in the Intermountain West. At Dr. Brant’s clinic, men are treated in an anonymous and sensitive environment, receiving care from a professional who specializes in this area of medicine and can offer the latest treatments for these conditions.
You can learn more about the Urology Specialty Clinic by visiting:
http://healthcare.utah.edu/urology/ or by calling 801-213-2700.
