Doctor who Treats Erectile Dysfunction? A Complete Guide to Finding the Right ED Specialist
“I Have Erectile Dysfunction…Now What?”
You’re ready at last to get medical assistance.
You may have thought that the issue you were facing would resolve itself. You might have even rationalized that there is too much going on in your life that is causing you to feel this way. Perhaps you spent numerous hours (as long as until 2 a.m.) searching online for information about what’s going on with your health.
Then comes the question that most men have:
What doctor treats erectile dysfunction?
The answer may surprise you:
Depending on the cause of the condition, you may seek help from a urologist, a hormonal specialist, a cardiologist, or a sexual therapist. In fact, most men searching for an erectile dysfunction specialist doctor are often surprised to learn that a number of different healthcare professionals may be involved in diagnosing and treating the condition.
Don’t be frightened! Follow the next steps to determine how to take the first step towards relief.
The Biggest Mistake Men Make
Most males believe that Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is only a problem in the bedroom, when in fact, it’s not. It is not rare to find case where erection problems have little to do with male sexual function, but instead may be related to what’s going on in other parts of your body.
An erection requires:
- Healthy blood circulation
- Finely working nerve functions
- Balanced hormones
- Healthy cardiovascular system
- Sound and good mental state
If any of the above systems are not functioning correctly at the same time, the chances of having an erection will decrease.
So when ED patients search the web for what doctor treats erectile dysfunction the best, they end up with several different answers. It is also why people often ask who treats erectile dysfunction when they realize the condition can be linked to multiple health concerns.
Meet the Doctor Most Men End Up Seeing
A urologist is in most cases the go-to doctor for erectile dysfunction (ED).
A urologist is a doctor who specializes in urinary tract problems and also men’s reproductive health such as:
- Erectile dysfunction
- Low libido
- Prostate issues
- Male reproductive health
- Urinary conditions
This means a urologist probably has patients with ED every day.
For you, the good thing is that almost anything you tell your urologist about your condition is unlikely to shock them.
Seriously.
Many men have equally different reasons for not seeking a urologist due to embarrassment. However, the urologist probably just spoke with at least ten other male patients with cases of ED before getting to yours.
For many patients, a urologist is considered the best doctor for erectile dysfunction because of their experience in diagnosing and managing male sexual health concerns.
In many cases, they are also the erectile dysfunction treatment doctor to whom patients are referred after an initial evaluation.
What Actually Happens During the Appointment?
Many people get anxious about their appointments, thinking they need to clear uncomfortable exams and awkward discussions. The reality is usually not as dramatic. Most appointments begin with some very simple questions:
- When did the problem begin?
- Can you get an erection at all?
- Can you maintain one?
- Do you wake up with morning erections?
- Are you under unusual stress?
- Do you have diabetes or perhaps high blood pressure?
That’s it. Most men end up feeling more like having a conversation than an exam.
Maybe Your Heart’s Compromised Not Just Erectile Function
Most of the men do not know that erectile dysfunction presents years prior to the symptoms of heart disease.
But why?
The reason being the blood vessels that go to the penis are smaller than the ones that go to the heart.
Therefore, a minor circulation problem may result in erectile dysfunction before producing symptoms like chest pressure or other signs of cardiovascular disease.
This is also one of the reasons why doctors view erectile dysfunction seriously.
In many cases, erectile dysfunction is similar to your body giving you a small red flag before producing a much larger problem like your heart.
When Hormones Become Cause For Concern?
ED may not always be caused by poor blood flow. Sometimes the issue is low testosterone (or any other hormone imbalance).
Signs that suggest low testosterone or another hormonal imbalance may include:
- Reduced desire for sexual intimacy
- Fatigue
- Decrease in muscle mass
- Lacking motivation
- Changes in Mood
When these symptoms coincide with ED, an endocrinologist may need to be consulted as part of your healthcare team.
What If the Problem Is in Your Head?
It may come off as harsh but it could be a true possibility.
- Stress
- Performance anxiety
- Relationship tension
- Depression
They can all affect the ability to get an erection.
In some cases men may be able to get an erection physically but will be unable to maintain it all the way due to anxiety in specific situations.
In these circumstances, a mental health provider or psychological therapist may be just as important to helping achieve an erection as a doctor or other medical specialist.
Depending on the situation, a psychological therapist may work alongside a urologist or male sexual health specialist to address both the physical and emotional aspects of ED.
The Best First Line Treatment ED Medication Options
Oral ED medications may be the first option your healthcare provider discusses after they have evaluated the cause of your impotence (ED), and the doctor who treats it.
ED treatment medications are prescribed on a common basis to be used as a first-line treatment because they are easy to obtain (with a prescription) and have been successful in providing improvement in erectile function for a lot of men.
Here is a list of the different categories of oral ED medicines:
Sildenafil-based medications:
Tadalafil-based medications:
Vardenafil-based medications:
Avanafil-based medications:
These medications are among the most commonly discussed treatment options for erectile dysfunction and may be recommended depending on a patient’s medical history, overall health, and individual needs.
While most oral ED medications have been found to improve erectile function, it is important to know that they do not fix every possible cause of erectile dysfunction (ED).
This is why it is so essential to know what doctor treats erectile dysfunction because they will have knowledge of the possible causes of your erection issues and can determine what is the most appropriate and effective treatment method for you before they prescribe the most commonly recommended oral ED medications to you.
When you know the cause of your erection problems, you can be confident that you are treating it, not just masking a symptom.
So…What Doctor Treats Erectile Dysfunction?
If you’ve read this far, you probably want an answer to your question.
Option 1
A family doctor if you want a general health evaluation first.
Option 2
If erectile dysfunction is the more concerning issue for you then a urologist is recommended to improve your possibility of having a successful recovery.
For most men, those two are the best options to begin the treatment.
Whether you’re in need of an erectile dysfunction specialist doctor, an erectile dysfunction treatment doctor, or are confused about who treats erectile dysfunction, a family doctor or urologist is your best pick.
Once you’ve begun to address the issue of erectile dysfunction, you may require additional specialists if any of the hormonal, cardiovascular, or psychological problems continue to exist.
Don’t Let The Internet Be Your Doctor
Here’s the truth.
Searching for what doctor treats erectile dysfunction is an excellent way to start.
But do not make the mistake of stopping there.
You may learn a ton from the internet, but finding answers from a qualified health care provider will provide you with factual answers.
And as you know, the sooner you start the treatment, the more likely you are to recover.
If you’re still unsure about the best doctor for erectile dysfunction, remember that seeking professional guidance is the most important step toward finding the right diagnosis and the most effective treatment options for erectile dysfunction.
