Newswise — Erectile dysfunction, also called impotence, is no longer the taboo topic it once was, perhaps due to the advertising for Viagra, the first oral drug for this condition.
The October issue of Mayo Clinic Health Letter outlines other treatment options for erectile dysfunction and why treatment is important. Impotence, which interferes with sexual performance, also can be the first sign of serious illnesses including diabetes; high blood pressure; kidney, liver or hormonal disorders; or coronary artery disease.
Erectile dysfunction can occur at any age, but it is more common in men over age 65. If you have concerns about impotence, ask your doctor about your treatment options. They include:
Oral medications: Sildenafil (Viagra) now has competition. A second medication was approved by the FDA in August 2003. Another is expected to be available by the end of the year.
Injected drugs: Men can be taught to inject drugs into the penis to enhance blood flow.
Self-administered intraurethral therapy: This involves using a small applicator to insert a tiny pellet of medicine into the urethra.
Vacuum devices: This involves placing a hollow plastic tube over the penis and manually pumping to create a vacuum that pulls blood into the penis.
Surgical options: These may be considered if other treatments aren't helpful. Semirigid malleable rods or inflatable devices may be surgically placed.
Mayo Clinic Health Letter is an eight-page monthly newsletter of reliable, accurate and practical information on today's health and medical news. To subscribe, please call toll-free 800-333-9037, extension 9PR1.
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