Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is a common condition. More than 50% of men over 40 will experience some degree of ED at some stage in their lives. If you are one of the 50% of men over 40 who has experienced this problem, you are certainly not alone and you have arrived at the right place for information and advice.
The good news is that help is available for men with ED. Take a look at the Manmatters 3 Steps Plan INFORM – CHECK – ACT and take that first step to getting help – make an appointment to see Dr. Brady.
Dr Brady will ask you questions about your general health and how ED is affecting you physically and psychologically. Up to 80% of ED is caused by an underlying physical condition, so Dr Brady may want to assess your condition:
- Dr Brady may want to review the medicines you are currently taking.
ED may be caused by the side effects of some medications so your doctor will want to ensure that your ED is not a result of this. - Dr Brady may check your blood pressure.
High blood pressure is linked to heart disease and diabetes, both of which are known to be causes of ED. - Dr Brady may take a blood or urine test to check sugar levels.
If your sugar levels are raised, you may need additional tests to check for diabetes. - Dr Brady may take a blood test to check your cholesterol levels.
ED may be due to problems with your blood vessels (sometimes known as “hardening of the arteries”). Because raised cholesterol can make this problem worse, your doctor may check your blood cholesterol level and if it is too high advise you on how to bring it down. - Dr Brady may perform a blood test to check the testosterone levels in your body.
Low levels of this hormone could affect your sex drive and general health.