What should you know about erectile dysfunction treatment?

A clinician first considers circulation, diabetes, blood pressure, hormones, medicines, mood, sleep and relationship factors. Erectile difficulty may be linked with conditions such as hypertension, obesity, type 2 diabetes or depression, so treating a contributing problem can support sexual function.

Treatment is personal. A tablet may not be suitable with some heart medicines or health conditions, and it should not be obtained from an unverified seller. Counselling or sex therapy can help when anxiety, low mood or relationship strain is part of the picture.

Start with a GP consultation so your history, medicines and cardiovascular risk can be reviewed. A blood test or diabetes screening may be suggested when symptoms point to a metabolic or hormonal contributor.

Regular physical activity, stopping smoking, moderating alcohol, improving sleep and addressing stress can complement medical treatment. Use prescribed medicine exactly as directed, and report troublesome effects. If an initial option does not help, return for a review rather than increasing a dose yourself.

Seek urgent care for chest pain, severe breathlessness, fainting, penile injury or an erection that is painful or does not settle. Arrange a routine review for persistent difficulty, new loss of sexual desire or symptoms such as numbness or urinary change.

What might be causing my symptoms? Do I need a blood test or diabetes screening? Are prescribed erection medicines safe with my current treatment? Would counselling or a specialist referral help?