Erectile dysfunction is one ailment that urologists treat, along with others, that affects both the urinary tract as well as male reproductive organs (ED). They can run tests to identify the underlying cause of the problem and make therapeutic recommendations. ED is among the most prevalent conditions in middle aged and elderly men. In this post, we'll go over in detail how the best urologist in India treats Erectile dysfunction, how and where to find one, and the kinds of treatments they could suggest.

How can urologists help the ED?

Urologists are experts in treating diseases like ED that affect both the male reproductive system and the urinary tract. A urologist can identify ED and look into its underlying causes. They achieve this by:

  1. Gathering medical information: In order to recognize how ED impacts an individual and whether they suffer from any pre-existing medical issues, urologists will obtain a thorough medical history. In order to determine the problems a person is having, they will also inquire about sexual activity, such as ejaculation and sexual desire.
  2. Conducting a physical examination: A physical examination by a urologist will be conducted to look for symptoms of the underlying medical conditions, such as changes in heart rate and blood pressure. The penis and testicles will also be examined for appearance and touch sensitivity, and even the prostate may be checked for enlargement.
  3. Urine and blood tests: A urologist may request tests to check your hormone levels, blood sugar levels, liver, kidneys, cholesterol levels, and thyroid function, if necessary. 
  4. Test by injection: In this test, a doctor administers an erection-inducing medication directly further into the penis at its base. If no erection happens, it can mean there is a blood flow issue.
  5. Doppler ultrasound in the penis: With this testing, a doctor administers an erection-inducing medication to the penis. Then they utilize ultrasonography to examine the veins and arteries of the penis to determine how well blood is flowing.

The outcomes of these studies will assist the urologist in determining the most effective course of treatment and possible reasons for the patient's ED.

Finding a urologist

After an initial visit, a doctor in most countries may recommend a patient to a urologist. Speaking with them is an excellent place to start because certain health insurance providers might need a doctor's referral. 

An online search engine can be used to locate board-certified urologists in a given location or state.

Alternative therapies

There are numerous ED therapy alternatives. A urologist will advise therapy based on the dysfunction's underlying cause. 

Treatment of underlying diseases 

Several medical diseases as well as lifestyle choices which may be evident in a patient including the ones listed below could lead to a visit to the doctor:

  • high blood pressure
  • obesity
  • type 2 diabetes
  • kidney disease
  • anxiety or depression
  • smoking
  • multiple sclerosis
  • obstructive sleep apnea and other sleep disorders
  • hypogonadism, or low testosterone

A urologist will advise treating or managing a health problem if they discover evidence that it may cause a patient's ED. The following are examples:

  • taking a drug to decrease blood sugar, cholesterol, or blood pressure 
  • using medications to increase thyroid or testosterone production 
  • Changing ongoing medications if ED might be an adverse effect of having these medications.
  • Psychotherapy or counseling to treat mental health issues

An individual may also benefit by hanging their lifestyle like

  • lowering alcohol consumption
  • quitting smoking or using drugs recreationally
  • obtaining or maintaining a reasonable weight starting
  • regularly exercising

Other Doctors that can assist with ED

In the evaluation and treatment of ED, in addition to urologists, other medical professionals may be involved. These consist of: 

  • primary care physicians 
  • If the cardiovascular disease is a factor then cardiologists 
  • mental health experts like psychologists, or counselors 
  • endocrinologists that treat hormone conditions

How are heart issues and erectile dysfunction related? 

In the past, it was believed that atherosclerosis, or the accumulation of plaque in your body's arteries, was the cause of the frequent occurrence of erectile dysfunction. It was hypothesized that plaque formation restricts blood supply to the penis, making erections challenging. 

However, it is currently believed that erectile dysfunction that develops prior to cardiac problems is more usually brought on by endothelium as well as smooth muscle failure. Endothelial dysfunction contributes to the onset of atherosclerosis and results in inadequate blood flow to the penis and the heart.

What therapies are available for erectile dysfunction brought on by heart disease? 

Consider making lifestyle adjustments if some of the top cardiologist in India believe you may be at risk for heart disease. Any adjustment in lifestyle that benefits the heart also benefits the penis. You should up your physical activity, keep a healthy weight, quit smoking, and restrict alcohol. Serious heart disease symptoms and signs may require additional testing or medical intervention. 

Discuss with your doctor regarding treatment options if you suffer from both heart disease and erectile dysfunction. Many of the drugs used to treat erectile dysfunction are unsafe to use if you consume particular heart medications, especially nitrates.