Are you a man experiencing the symptoms of erectile dysfunction? If so, there are treatment options available.
Erectile Dysfunction Treatment Overview
Dr. Mark Allen, a urologist serving the Plano, Frisco and Dallas, Texas area, offers erectile dysfunction treatment, such a a penile implant, for men suffering from erectile dysfunction (ED)—also known as impotence—which is the inability of a man to achieve or maintain an erection that is firm enough for sexual intercourse. Erectile dysfunction is an on-going problem and often leads to a decrease in sexual desire. The condition can cause emotional stress and anxiety and can deeply affect a relationship.
Most men will experience some form of erectile dysfunction after the age of 40 and will not be psychologically affected by it. Frequently, men who have chronic erectile dysfunction are ashamed to discuss the condition with their doctors.
According to Dr. Mark Allen, “It is important for men to reach out to their physicians to discuss their ED symptoms because many times there is an underlying medical problem such as diabetes, heart disease and certain prostate conditions that can be directly linked to the condition. While stress, anxiety and psychological or mental health issues can worsen the symptoms, in most cases, the problem is caused by something physical. There is a clear link between erectile dysfunction and these medical conditions.”
Erectile Dysfunction Treatment
There are many erectile dysfunction treatment options on the market today. The first step most doctors will take is to make sure any undiagnosed medical health problem is treated. In many cases, these problems can cause or worsen ED. In addition, patients on medications or drugs for other unrelated health conditions should consider decreasing the dosage if these drugs are proven to have harmful side effects.
Oral medications—such as Viagra, Cialis and Levitra—offer successful erectile dysfunction treatment for many men. These drugs enhance the effect of nitric oxide, which is a natural chemical produced by the body that relaxes the muscles within the penis. Each medication varies and is offered in different dosages.
If oral medications fail to work, there are some new erectile dysfunction treatment options that have proven to be successful. A penis pump, or vacuum device, is available to help create an erection enlarging the penis manually through a hand-powered or battery-powered pump. This pump creates a vacuum that pulls blood into the penis resulting in an erection that typically lasts long enough for intercourse.
The AMS Penile Implant for Erectile Dysfunction
The newest erectile dysfunction treatment method being offered by urologists offers a 90% effective rate for men suffering from chronic impotence. The AMS penile implant device for erectile restoration is offered for men who have exhausted all other treatment options.
AMS 700™ Series—3-Piece Inflatable Penile Implant
The AMS penile implant treatment, performed as an out-patient procedure under general anesthesia, involves surgically placing inflatable cylinder devices into both sides of the penis. These devices consist of semi-rigid rods made from either polyurethane or silicone. Two additional pieces are also used: A reservoir containing liquid and a pump is also connected to the system and is placed under the loose skin of the scrotal sac, between the testicles. To inflate the prosthesis, a man simply presses on the pump that transfers liquid from the reservoir to the cylinders. When this occurs, an erection is the result. When sexual intercourse is over, pressing on the deflation valve will deflate the prostheses.
Dr. Mark Allen offers the AMS device to his patients. There are several devices to choose from but they each offer the same result. “To most, a penile implant is not visibly noticeable from the outside of the body. That is a big plus for my patients because it looks natural. For men who have had inactive, unsatisfying sex lives, the penile implant device offers a permanent, long-term solution. The device does not alter a man’s ability to reach orgasm and ejaculation is not affected. More than 85% of my patients who have had the penile implant procedure have experienced great success and a return of normalcy to their success lives,” says Dr. Mark Allen.
While modern treatments are proving to offer effective remedies for erectile dysfunction, it’s important for men to do their part as well. Certain lifestyle choices are directly related to impotence. If you smoke, quit. If you are overweight, choose a healthier lifestyle and get regular exercise. Drinking too much or taking certain drugs can also worsen erectile dysfunction. Psychological problems in a relationship can cause anxiety, depression and stress—these factors increase the symptoms associated with erectile dysfunction.
Whether the cause of your erectile dysfunction is physical, psychological or both, there are options for you. Make an appointment with your doctor today and learn which erectile dysfunction treatment is right for you.
To learn more about penile implants, or to discuss your erectile dysfunction treatment options, please contact the office of Dr. Mark Allen, urologist serving the communities of Plano, Frisco and Dallas, Texas.