Erectile Dysfunction Q & A
What causes erectile dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a symptom of an underlying problem, but there are several possible causes. Many medications can affect your ability to have or sustain an erection, including diuretics, antihypertensives, antihistamines, and muscle relaxants.
Stress and anxiety can lead to and be exacerbated by ED, creating a cycle that only worsens. Lifestyle habits such as drinking too much alcohol can also contribute to the problem.
In most cases, however, ED is caused by low levels of testosterone or an underlying health condition, such as:
- High cholesterol
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Heart disease
- Blood vessel disease
- Sleep disorders
- Enlarged prostate
What causes low testosterone?
Testosterone naturally declines as you age. Beginning around the age of 30, its levels drop at the rate of about 1% yearly for the rest of your life.
Low testosterone can also be caused by medications and underlying health conditions, such as pituitary gland dysfunction, uncontrolled Type 2 diabetes, obstructive sleep apnea, and low thyroid hormone.
You can also develop low testosterone from anabolic steroid abuse and traumatic head injuries that affect the pituitary gland.
What are the symptoms of low testosterone?
If your ED is due to low testosterone, you may also notice changes in your mood, feel fatigued, or have difficulty concentrating. Low testosterone also causes loss of muscle strength, an increase in body fat, and a decrease in body hair.
How is erectile dysfunction treated?
At MyFitMed you’ll receive a comprehensive evaluation and blood tests because the key to treating ED is diagnosing the underlying cause of the problem. The team at MyFitMed offer several treatment options for ED, including medication and testosterone supplementation if needed.
When your bloodwork reveals low testosterone, hormone replacement therapy restores proper levels, which relieves symptoms caused by ED. J Patel at MyFitMed administers testosterone in several forms, including an injection, as a cream or gel, in a patch, and in pellets.
Testosterone pellets — called bioTE® — are injected under your skin, where they provide a continuous and steady supply of hormone. Your pellet lasts several months, then the team at MyFitMed does a complete follow-up — including more bloodwork — to be sure your hormone levels are optimal.
Whether you occasionally or frequently experience ED, call MyFitMed or use online booking to schedule a same-day consultation.
