Let’s face it. Some health concerns are just easier to talk about than others.
While erectile dysfunction (ED) might not be at the top of your list for casual conversation, it’s more common than you might think – and there’s no need to be embarrassed about seeking help. A little know-how can go a long way toward making “the talk” feel less awkward and helping you figure out what to do next.
How common is it? Very.
Erectile dysfunction is the most common sexual health problem men report to their doctors, according to the Urology Care Foundation. It becomes more common with age and may be associated with other health conditions.
What causes erectile dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction is the recurring difficulty getting or keeping an erection firm enough for sexual activity. Because getting an erection involves blood vessels, nerves and hormones working together, problems affecting any of these systems can contribute to ED.
Occasional erection problems can happen to anyone. But if they happen regularly, it’s worth checking inwith a health care provider rather than hoping the issue will go away on its own.
Potential causes include:
- Underlying health conditions: Diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and high cholesterolcan affect blood flow and contribute to ED.
- Medications: Some prescription medications can affect sexual function. Don’t stop taking a prescribed medication without first talking with your health care provider.
- Mental health concerns: Stress, anxiety and depression can affect sexual function.
- Lifestyle factors: Smoking, alcohol use and physical inactivity may contribute to erection problems.
- Hormonal or nerve-related issues: Low testosterone, certain neurological conditions, and injuries or surgeries that affect the pelvic area can also play a role.
Sometimes, ED has more than one cause, including a combination of physical and psychological factors. It can also be an early sign of an underlying health concern, including heart disease, so it’s important not to dismiss recurring symptoms.
What treatments are available for erectile dysfunction?
There’s no single approach that works for everyone. Treatment for ED depends on what’s causing your symptoms, your medical history and your individual needs.
Prescription medications, known as PDE5 inhibitors, are a common treatment option. These include
- Sildenafil (Viagra)
- Tadalafil (Cialis)
- Vardenafil (Levitra)
These medications help increase blood flow to the penis, making it easier to get and maintain an erection.
Other treatment approaches may include:
- Addressing underlying health concerns: Managing conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure may be an important part of treatment.
- Lifestyle changes: Regular physical activity, quitting smoking and limiting or avoiding alcohol may help improve erectile function for some people.
- Counseling: If stress, anxiety or other mental health concerns contribute to ED, counseling or sex therapy may help.
- Additional treatments: Depending on the cause and severity of your ED, other options may be available through a primary care provider or specialist.
ED is treatable, and the right approach depends on the individual. A clinician can help you understand which options may be suitable and whether further evaluation is needed.
An important note about medication safety: ED meds aren’t safe for everyone. Sildenafil (Viagra), for example, should never be taken with nitrate medications used for chest pain. The combination can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure. Certain heart conditions, blood pressure concerns and medication interactions may also affect which treatments are appropriate. Always share a complete list of prescription medications, over-the-counter medicines and supplements with your clinician.
When should I see a provider about erectile dysfunction?
If you have recurring difficulty getting or maintaining an erection, consider making an appointment with a health care provider. You don’t have to wait until symptoms significantly affect your life to ask for help.
An evaluation can help identify possible causes, review your treatment options and determine whether additional testing or follow-up care is needed. It may also help identify underlying health concerns that need attention.
What happens during an erectile dysfunction evaluation?
Talking about ED may feel uncomfortable at first, but your clinician is there to help – not to judge.
So, what can you expect? Your visit will typically include a discussion about:
- Your symptoms: When they started, how often they happen and any other changes you’ve noticed.
- Your health history: Existing medical conditions and other factors that could contribute to ED.
- Your medications: Prescription medications, over-the-counter medicines and supplements you take.
- Your overall health: A blood pressure check is generally part of the assessment.
Not everyone needs the same type of evaluation. A clinician may be able to assess whether medication is appropriate by reviewing your symptoms, medical history and medications, and checking your blood pressure. Depending on your individual circumstances, a physical exam, blood tests and other testing may also be recommended.
Being open about your symptoms and health history can help your clinician determine the safest and most appropriate next steps.
Can urgent care help with erectile dysfunction?
Yes. If you’re experiencing ED, an Indigo Urgent Care clinician can review your symptoms and may prescribe medication when medically appropriate. If you’ve never been evaluated for ED, an initial visit with an Indigo clinician may help identify potential causes and determine whether additional testing or follow-up care is needed.
What about ongoing treatment for ED?
Urgent care may be able to provide an initial prescription for ED medication, but ED care doesn’t necessarily end with that first visit. Ongoing treatment is often best managed with a primary care provider – especially since ED can sometimes be linked to underlying health conditions.
If you receive a prescription through urgent care, ask your clinician about the recommended follow-up plan and whether additional evaluation is appropriate.
Can I get ED treatment through Indigo Virtual Care?
Indigo Virtual Care may be convenient for established patients seeking certain prescription renewals, depending on their medical history and individual needs.
If you’re experiencing new symptoms or haven’t been evaluated, an in-person visit may be recommended. Your clinician can help determine which type of visit makes the most sense.
When is erectile dysfunction a medical emergency?
ED itself usually isn’t an emergency. However, an erection that lasts four hours or longer requires immediate medical attention. Seek emergency care if this happens, including after taking ED medication.
Take the next step with Indigo
If erectile dysfunction is affecting your quality of life, you don’t have to figure it out on your own. With Indigo Urgent Care, there’s no need to put off the conversation.
Indigo treats a range of health concerns, including erectile dysfunction when appropriate. Whether you have questions about medication or want to understand what may be contributing to your symptoms, talking with a clinician is a positive step toward caring for your health.
If you’re experiencing symptoms for the first time and haven’t been evaluated, an Indigo clinician can help you understand the next steps and whether further evaluation or follow-up care may be needed.
Ready to talk? Indigo offers same-day and next-day in-person and virtual care appointments. You can also walk into any of our convenient clinic locations. We’re here from 8 am to 8 pm every day, including weekends.
