Erectile dysfunction: When impotence could be something more serious

Every year, up to 30 million American men are affected by erectile dysfunction (ED), and those over 50 are more likely to experience its symptoms. Impotence, which is characterized by the inability to attain and sustain an erection, can be caused by various factors, including physical and emotional problems, as well as underlying health issues.

Three questions men should ask themselves about erectile dysfunction

Often, men are reluctant to speak with their docter about ED or are uncertain if they are experiencing impotence. Here are three questions men should ask themselves to determine they have a problem that needs addressed:

• Are you having trouble getting an erection even when you’re stimulated or have desire?
• Are you losing the erection before sexual intercourse can occur?
• Are your erections becoming too soft for sexual penetration?

Any man who answers each question with a “yes,” and the symptoms have been occurring at least for several weeks, need help. Typically, unaddressed ED will worsen over time, often progressing from mild to complete impotence, when not treated appropriately.

I encourage men who experience any symptoms or signs of ED to seek medical assistance from a urologist or their primary care provider in a timely manner. Although it may be difficult to talk about, discussing ED with your doctor is crucial as it can be an early indicator of serious and potentially life-threatening conditions that can include the following:

• High blood pressure
• Heart disease
• Clogged blood vessels
• High cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Metabolic syndrome
• Parkinson’s disease
• Multiple sclerosis
• Sleep disorders
• Peyronie’s Disease
• Low testosterone
• Nerve injury to the pelvis or back

Erectile dysfunction not only physically affects men but can also lead to emotional consequences such as low self-esteem, depression, and anxiety. Since sex involves the collaboration of both the mind and body, the effects of erectile dysfunction can disrupt this relationship, leading to strained relationships and exacerbating ED symptoms.

It’s important to know that erectile dysfunction does not always result from aging and can often be treated, primarily if addressed early. Don’t suffer in silence and seek help today for ED’s effects.

Dr. David Samadi is the Director of Men’s Health and Urologic Oncology at St. Francis Hospital in Long Island. He’s a renowned and highly successful board certified Urologic Oncologist Expert and Robotic Surgeon in New York City, regarded as one of the leading prostate surgeons in the U.S., with a vast expertise in prostate cancer treatment and Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy. Dr. Samadi is a medical contributor to NewsMax TV and is also the author of The Ultimate MANual, Dr. Samadi’s Guide to Men’s Health and Wellness, available online both on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Visit Dr. Samadi’s websites at robotic oncology and prostate cancer 911.