An Overview of Hormone Treatment for Erectile Dysfunction
Some men will experience hormonal problems that may relate to erectile dysfunction. This is known as “low T” or low testosterone. Testosterone is the male hormone that deciphers whether a fetus will have the reproductive organs of a male or female, and it essentially builds the male reproductive organs. Testosterone is released in large amounts in the body of a boy during his pubescent years, and provides him the ability to build muscle, deepen his voice and creates his sexual desire. As men naturally age, testosterone levels drop and may cause erectile dysfunction, commonly linking erectile dysfunction and age. Dr. Mark Allen, urology specialist serving the greater Plano, Dallas, Frisco and Richardson, Texas area, offers hormone treatment for erectile dysfunction as an ED treatment option.
What is Erectile Dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction, otherwise known as ED or impotence, is classified as the repeated inability to get or keep an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. Erectile dysfunction and age are commonly linked because of hormone loss as a man ages.
Common causes of ED include:
- Physical factors such as kidney disease, diabetes, vascular disease and chronic alcoholism
- Chemical factors such as antidepressants, tranquilizers, blood pressure medications and antihistamines
- Psychological factors such as stress, guilt, depression and anxiety
Erectile Dysfunction and Age
After a male reaches 40 years of age, his testosterone naturally begins to decrease by about 3% a year. This anatomical change is inevitable, and does not affect a man’s physique or lifestyle. An even larger loss of testosterone in men, however, will cause undesirable side effects. In some cases, impotence can be one of these side effects.
Even though erectile dysfunction and age are associated, certain men experience ED as an underlying complication of prescription medications (chemical factors) or health condition.
How does Hormone Treatment for Erectile Dysfunction Work
as an ED Treatment?
Testosterone can be restored to a therapeutic level with hormone treatment for erectile dysfunction, but should only be taken if patients are tested and these tests confirm a deficiency. One such therapy is the insertion of testosterone pellets. These small, compressed, Tic-Tac sized pellets are injected under the skin (most often in the buttock just below the waistline). It is a simple procedure and leaves minimal scarring. The dose varies according to blood levels and other factors. Most patients will see improvement in their symptoms within a few short weeks.
For more resources on erectile dysfunction and ED treatment, or to determine if you are a candidate for hormone treatment for erectile dysfunction, please contact Dr. Mark Allen, urology specialist in the Plano, Dallas, Frisco and Richardson, Texas communities.
