Erectile dysfunction in men: when to worry and how to treat it
By Dr. Pablo Juárez del Dago - Urologist. GUA Urology and Andrology.
Table of Contents
- What is erectile dysfunction in men?
- When to worry
- Main causes
- How it is diagnosed
- Effective treatments
- How we address erectile dysfunction at GUA
- Frequently asked questions
- Request an appointment
What is erectile dysfunction in men?
Erectile dysfunction in men is the continued difficulty in achieving or maintaining a firm erection sufficient for sexual activity.
It does not define the sufferer: it is a sign of health that requires medical attention and can be treated with excellent results.
When to worry
- Persistence of the problem for more than 3-6 months.
- Progressive decrease in rigidity or duration of erection.
- Anxiety or impact on the partner.
- Risk factors: diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity.
- Pain, curvature or associated hormonal changes.
Attention: Erectile dysfunction in men can be a vascular warning. Early detection also improves cardiovascular health.
Main causes
ED is usually multifactorial in origin:
- Vascular: arteriosclerosis, hypertension, endothelial damage.
- Neurological: neuropathies, pelvic injuries or prostate surgery.
- Hormonal: low testosterone or thyroid disorders.
- Pharmacological and toxic: some antihypertensives, alcohol and tobacco.
- Psychological: performance anxiety, stress, relationship problems.
More information about erectile dysfunction - GUA Urology and Andrology.
How it is diagnosed
- Clinical history and physical examination.
- Hormone analysis and metabolic profile.
- Penile Doppler ultrasound to assess arterial and venous flow.
- Psychological and sexual evaluation.
Effective treatments
Habits and lifestyle
- Regular exercise, balanced diet and adequate sleep.
- Smoking cessation and alcohol reduction.
- Stress management and improvement of sexual communication.
Sex therapy and psychological support
The emotional component is key. Sex therapy helps reduce performance anxiety and improves response to medical treatments.
3. Oral medication (iPDE5)
- Sildenafil, tadalafil, vardenafil or avanafil, always under medical supervision.
- They require sexual stimulation and control of interactions.
4. Local treatments and devices
- Intracavernous injections or urethral suppositories (alprostadil).
- Vacuum pump and constriction rings.
5. Penile implants
Definitive solution for refractory cases.
Consult our penile prosthesis page.
6. Innovative alternatives
- Low intensity shock waves.
- Regenerative therapies (under investigation).
- New oral/local formulations.
How we address erectile dysfunction at GUA
Our philosophy: science + human warmth.
At GUA Urology and Andrology we offer you a comprehensive diagnosis and personalized plan with continuous follow-up.
Request an appointment
Take the step towards a fulfilling sex life today.
At GUA we evaluate your case with discretion and personalized solutions.
"Erectile dysfunction in men can be treated. At GUA we help you regain your confidence and sexual well-being."
Frequently asked questions about erectile dysfunction
Can erectile dysfunction be cured?
It depends on the cause. In many cases it improves by treating the factors involved -such as controlling metabolic diseases or reducing stress-. In others, it may require ongoing treatment or the use of devices, drugs or combination therapies.
Do erection medications work for all men?
Not in all cases. Its effectiveness depends on the cause, the general state of health and adherence to medical guidelines. Adjusting the dose and accompanying it with healthy habits increases its effectiveness.
What if the drugs don't work for me?
There are alternatives: intracavernous injections, urethral suppositories, vacuum pumps or even penile implants for severe cases. At GUA we help you to evaluate the best option according to your diagnosis.
Does it have something to do with the heart?
Yes, in many men, erectile dysfunction can be an early vascular warning. Early detection can prevent or treat cardiovascular disease preventively.
Does age influence erectile dysfunction?
Not necessarily. Although it is more frequent with age, age is not a condemnation. The important thing is to identify the cause and apply the appropriate treatment to recover sexual function.
