It’s more common than you think.

Most men will experience the inability to get or keep an erection at some point in life, especially with age or during periods of abnormally-high physical or psychological stress. If erectile trouble becomes persistent, you may have a medical condition known as Erectile Dysfunction (ED). ED is more common in men over the age of 40 but can affect individuals at any age.

Symptoms:

  • Trouble achieving an erection
  • Trouble keeping an erection
  • Decreased firmness of erection
  • Low sexual desire
  • Premature or delayed ejaculation

Beyond the physiological symptoms, male sexual health issues like ED can place unnecessary stress on relationships, disrupt family planning, cause low levels of self-confidence, and affect one’s general outlook on life.

If you or your partner are experiencing symptoms of ED, Dr. Lowe can help.

ED is highly treatable and, in some instances, even reversible. However, due to the personal nature of the condition, many men find it difficult or embarrassing to seek medical attention and delay getting the help they need. At Lowe Urology in Columbus, Ohio, we are sensitive to your feelings and promise to deliver specialized care with the utmost respect and discretion.

Seeing patients at:OhioHealth Urology Physicians, OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital, Bing Cancer Center

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What causes erectile dysfunction?

Age increases your risk of developing ED. However, about 85% of all cases are linked to one or more underlying medical conditions—some more serious than others. For this reason, we encourage anyone suffering from erection trouble to seek professional medical attention.

Common causes of ED include:
  • Aging
  • Hormone Imbalance
  • Stress/Anxiety/Depression
  • Prescription
  • Medications
  • Excessive Alcohol
  • Consumption
  • Drug Use
  • Relationship Trouble
  • Obesity
Serious causes of ED include:
  • Cardiovascular Disease
  • Diabetes
  • Hypertension
  • High Cholesterol
  • Kidney Disease
  • Parkinson’s Disease
  • Multiple Sclerosis
  • Peyronie’s Disease

How will Dr. Lowe diagnose erectile dysfunction?

Treatment for Erectile Dysfunction begins with a complete review of your medical history and physical exam. Often, the initial assessment provides enough information to make an accurate diagnosis. If additional tests are required to rule out underlying conditions and identify a root cause, Dr. Lowe may recommend a blood test, hormone test, nerve study, ultrasound with blood flow test, or psychological exam.

How will Dr. Lowe treat erectile dysfunction?

Lowe Urology in Columbus, OH offers the most advanced erectile dysfunction treatment options available, including:
  • Oral Medication
  • Psychological Therapy
  • Intraurethral Suppository
  • Vacuum Devices
  • Penile Injection Therapy
  • Penile Prosthetics
Dr. Lowe will identify and treat any reversible causes first to alleviate symptoms of ED. First-line treatments may include oral medications known as phosphodiesterase type-5 (PDE5) inhibitors, such as Viagra, Cialis, Levitra, and Stendra. These medications can be taken 60-120 minutes before sexual intercourse and require sexual stimulation to achieve an erection. If stress and anxiety are suspected to be contributing factors, Dr. Lowe may also recommend psychological therapy. If oral medication does not work, other treatments such as intraurethral suppositories or penile injection therapy may help improve sexual performance by stimulating blood flow directly to the penis.

What is penile prosthesis placement for erectile dysfunction?

If medication and therapy are not enough to improve sexual performance, Dr. Lowe will discuss penile prosthesis placement—the most advanced treatment option available for men with erectile dysfunction. A penile prosthesis is a medical device that can be surgically implanted inside the penis to allow patients to achieve a full erection whenever desired.

Don’t wait to get the care you need.