According to reports, erectile dysfunction (ED) affects about 30 million American men each year. ED is not a normal part of aging but rather is a treatable health issue. However, men often hesitate to visit an ED specialist as they will ask you some detailed questions. However, there is nothing to be embarrassed about. The right information will help your ED doctor arrive at a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Let’s talk about some common questions your ED specialist may ask you during your first visit and where you can go in FL for outstanding men’s health-related care.
When Did You First Experience Difficulty with Erections?
Be specific. Has this been going on for a month, a year, or just occasionally? Try to think if there are commonalities among episodes of impotence. Have you felt tired, rushed, or stressed in some way?
Does This Happen All the Time or Just Periodically?
Frankly, every man has trouble with sex now and again. Men 50 and over have occasional episodes of ED for no apparent physical or emotional reason.
However, consistent ED indicates a real problem. That’s why your ED specialist will ask this question.
What Is Your Health History?
Be specific about your chronic health conditions and inform your ED doctor about injuries to your spine and groin. Diabetes, cardiovascular disease, chronic venous insufficiency, and low testosterone are well-documented causes of persistent erectile dysfunction. The Urology Care Foundation reports that ED occurs most frequently due to limited blood flow to the penis or nerve damage.
What Medications Are You Currently Taking?
Mental health medications, including antidepressants, have known sexual side effects for both men and women. Also, antihypertensives, such as diuretics and opiates, impair penile function.
Be honest about any illegal drugs you consume. Your doctor will not be judgmental and only wishes to understand all possible reasons for your health problem. So, tell him if you use cocaine, amphetamines, marijuana, or other recreational drugs, including alcohol. Tell your doctor how much and how often you use these substances.
Do You Smoke?
The nicotine in cigarettes impedes circulation by constricting small blood vessels. Smoking increases the sticky plaque that promotes cardiovascular disease. This plaque also accumulates in the blood vessels of the penis and lower extremities.
So, tell your doctor if you smoke and how much. Your doctor will advise you to stop smoking through a monitored smoking cessation program.
Is Your Penis Lumpy, Curved or Painful When You Have Sex?
Everyone’s genitalia varies in size and shape. However, noticeable lumps in the penile shaft or a curvature preventing sex are not normal. These may be the symptoms of Peyronie’s disease.
Sex should not be painful. So, if penile pain is impeding your desire and ability to have intercourse, consult your ED specialist immediately.
Do You Have Spontaneous Erections During the Night?
All men do. This is normal penile function during the night and before waking in the morning. However, the absence of nocturnal erections can indicate nerve damage and a lack of REM sleep, the most profound and restful type of nightly rest. In this regard, talk to your doctor about your erections as they relate to sleep even during naps.
Are You Experiencing any Job or Family Stress?
Anxiety and depression affect sexual readiness and performance. Your ED doctor will ask you if you are experiencing any life situations that make you chronically stressed out, angry, frustrated, or depressed.
How Is Your Relationship with Your Intimate Partner?
Conflict with your spouse or significant other can sexually diminish arousal. For instance, getting married or being intimate with someone you do not know well can negatively affect your sexual performance.
Erectile Dysfunction Treatment in St. Augustine, FL
At NIVA Men’s Health, our ED doctors are knowledgeable about the most innovative and minimally-invasive ways to get your sex life back on track. Dialogue between the physician and patient helps determine what treatment methods are best.
So, trust our team of physicians. Come in for an informative and confidential consultation at one of our offices. We are located in Jacksonville, Manalapan, St. Augustine, and Melbourne, FL. We also have locations in Naperville, IL, and Novi, MI.
To know more or schedule a consultation, contact our office or fill in our online appointment form.
