Erectile Dysfunction

If getting or sustaining an erection is challenging and diminishes your self-confidence or sex life, turn to board-certified urologist Bruce R Gilbert MD, PhD, in Great Neck, Long Island, New York. He offers research-backed treatments for erectile dysfunction (ED) to restore your quality of life and sexual performance. Schedule an evaluation by phone or request one online today to learn more about erectile dysfunction treatment.

What is erectile dysfunction (ED)?

Erectile dysfunction is a sexual dysfunction in which a man can’t obtain or sustain an erection firm enough to have satisfactory sexual intercourse. If you suffer from ED, you might also experience reduced sexual desire.

ED is common, particularly in men over 40. It can deteriorate your sex life and is often linked to coronary artery disease (CAD), which is why diagnosing and treating ED and its underlying cause is vital.

What are the risk factors for erectile dysfunction?

The cause of ED isn’t always clear, but these factors increase its risk:

• Being over 40
• Family history of ED
• Some medical conditions
• Carrying excess body weight
• Alcoholism
• Tobacco use
• Some medications
• Sleep disorders
• Drug use
• Low testosterone
• Injuries
• Stress
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Relationship challenges with a partner
• Prostate surgery
• Radiation treatment for cancer

Regardless of what’s causing your ED, it can lead to relationship stress, low self-esteem, or even the inability to get your partner pregnant.

How is ED diagnosed?

Dr. Gilbert diagnoses erectile dysfunction after discussing your symptoms. He also addresses your lifestyle, medications, medical history, and desired results. Dr. Gilbert often checks your vital signs, completes a physical exam, and might order blood and urine tests, a urologic ultrasound, and/or other diagnostic tests.

How is erectile dysfunction treated?

Treating ED can include one or more of the following:

• Healthy lifestyle changes
• Mental health treatment
• Medication
• Dietary supplements
• Medical weight loss
• Low-intensity shockwave therapy
• Surgery

Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses a hand-held device to emit painless sound waves. These waves stimulate cell regeneration in the penis, increasing blood flow, stimulating healing, and resulting in stronger erections.

Dr. Gilbert might suggest several shockwave treatments, with periodic maintenance treatments, to eliminate ED and improve your sex life.

Eating nutritious foods, maintaining an ideal weight, avoiding smoking and excessive drinking, and getting regular exercise are also necessary. Call Dr. Gilbert at any time with concerns or questions.

Don’t let erectile dysfunction get the best of you. Call the office or use the online booking feature to schedule an evaluation at Bruce R Gilbert, MD, PhD, PC, today.