Being unable to achieve an erection or have a lasting erection can be very distressing. It can happen from time to time to every man. However, erectile dysfunction (ED) is when a man has a persistent inability to achieve and maintain an erection needed for sex.
ED can have many causes, both mental and physical. For a long time, erectile was thought to be only a psychological in origin. However, ED can also be due to physical causes that can interfere with normal blood flow.
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure or hypertension damages artery walls. This causes them to harden and narrow, decreasing blood flow to the penis. As a result, getting and maintaining an erection becomes difficult. It is important to maintain blood pressure in the right levels, so that it doesn’t impact other areas of your health and functioning, such as erectile function.
Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes can cause nerve and blood vessel damage when it is left uncontrolled for a long period of time. As a result, getting and maintaining an erection can become difficult. This is just one reason why continual management of your blood sugar is essential.
Low Testosterone
Testosterone is the male hormone that can affect a man’s sex drive. Low levels can cause low libido. The condition is called hypogonadism, and it can be very challenging to treat this since many factors can contribute to low testosterone levels. A combination of aging, lifestyle factors, being overweight or obese, and having underlying medical conditions can cause low T levels. The best way to determine what is causing low testosterone levels is to see a doctor specializing in men’s sexual and reproductive health.
Prostate Problems
Prostate problems, such as an enlarged prostate also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer, are associated with ED. The condition and the treatment can cause ED. Both medication and the removal of the prostate gland (radical prostatectomy) can damage nerves and lead to ED. As for prostate cancer, the tumor can spread to the nerves and blood vessels needed for an erection. Radiation treatment for prostate cancer can also damage tissues in the area.
If you’ve been experiencing issues getting and maintaining an erection, it may be best to have it evaluated soon. A doctor specializing in men’s reproductive and sexual health can determine the cause of erectile dysfunction and create a treatment plan for you. Treatments for this condition usually require a personalized and comprehensive approach.
Erectile Dysfunction Specialist in Phoenix, AZ
Dr. Desiderio (Desi) Avila, Jr. is a fellowship-trained urologist that specializes in treating men’s health issues. Dr. Avila can treat health conditions, from low testosterone levels and erectile dysfunction to prostate problems. He is also a recognized innovator in the treatment of men’s sexual health issues, which means you will receive the latest treatments on the market.
Our team of compassionate providers and staff welcome you to our Phoenix urology clinic. To schedule your visit, call (480) 961-2323 or use our online form. We look forward to helping you get better.
