In Part I of Matt’s story, we looked at how doctors determine whether a man’s impotence is due to physical or mental factors and some of the risk factors connected with erection problems.
Now we look at the treatments available for impotence and find out how Matt’s story ended.
Common Treatments For Physical Erection Problems
As mentioned in Part I, before treating impotence the doctor will probably run some tests or send the patient to a specialist to find the root cause.
Tests for physical problems include hormone tests, blood flow evaluations to check for blockages, nerve damage tests, and penile tumescence and rigidity testing to determine if the man has erections during the night. If he does, then his erection problems are likely psychological in nature.
Doctors today believe that physical factors are usually at play when impotence isn’t temporary and doesn’t go away on its own. If a patient has suffered from an erection problem for a long time (or has never achieved an erection), his doctor will likely find some physical trigger rather than psychological
Treatments for physical impotence include the following:
- Hormones. who have low testosterone levels may be prescribed hormone supplements.
- Medical Treatment. This involves treating the underlying illness or condition that may be causing the erection problem, such as diabetes, thyroid imbalance, high blood pressure or depression (see Part I of Matt’s Story for a list of impotence-related health conditions.)
- Kick The Habit. The doctor may also advise his patient to give up or reduce the amount of tobacco and alcohol he uses, as they may contribute to impotence.
- Prescription Drugs. Viagra, Cialis and Levitra are commonly prescribed by doctors to increase blood flow to the penis, helping men to achieve and maintain an erection.
- Mechanical Aids: When impotence can’t be treated with drugs, devices such as vacuum pumps and penile implants may help.
Common Treatments For Psychological Erection Problems
As mentioned in Part I of Matt’s Story, psychological impotence is extremely common. It can result from a man’s feelings of insecurity or low self esteem, fear, anxiety, depression, poor communication with his partner or other relationship problems.
The epidemic of depression in modern society has complicated matters for men suffering from erection problems because both the condition AND many of the drugs used to treat depression can cause impotence. Sometimes switching to a different anti-depressant can resolve the problem.
Here are some other common treatment methods for erection problems that start in the mind:
- Counseling. A trained therapist can help men deal with negative feelings like fear, stress or lack of confidence.
- Education. With so many of us having easy access to the Internet, it’s now possible to learn more about the workings of the mind and body in a private setting. Anonymously joining erectile dysfunction forums or discussion groups can help you figure out what’s normal and what isn’t, and learn about solutions that have worked for others
- Communication Learning to share your concerns about sex with your partner may not come easily at first, but it can help open the door to a healthier sex life and ease communication in every other aspect of your lives together.
Matt’s Story: The Conclusion
Matt was fortunate. His doctor gave him a clean bill of health and suggested he get counseling and learn how to share more with his partner
He also suggested Matt consider trying Viagra in conjunction with the therapy to help him and his partner "reconnect" while they work on their relationship issues.
Matt and Cindy are currently attending weekly counseling sessions and using Viagra when needed. They report things are getting better for them, both in bed and in their relationship.
