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Why a Specialist
DO I NEED A SPECIALIST?
For most men, oral medication is the first line of therapy for erectile dysfunction. This may be safely prescribed after a full evaluation by a general urologist. However, there are situations where you should seek the evaluation and treatment of a specialist:
- If you want to thoroughly understand the cause of your erection problems. There are four main causes of erection problems: vascular, neurological, hormonal, and psychological. Often, two or more of these are contributing factors. The specialist is uniquely qualified to diagnose the cause or causes of the problem and treat it as effectively and efficiently as possible.
- If oral medication is not working as well as you had hoped or if you cannot take oral medication because of other existing medical conditions or conflicting medication. Oral medications have truly revolutionized the treatment of erectile dysfunction. However, they are contraindicated or do not work well in approximately 40% of all men. Unfortunately, the vast majorities of these men do not seek alternative treatments. An impotence specialist is expert in the full range of diagnostic and treatment options.
- If you want to understand the differences in oral medications and decide which one might work best for you. You can see a summary and brief description of the new oral medications under the "Frequently Asked Questions" section of this website. However, if you want more thorough information or would like to discuss with the pros and cons of your particular case with a doctor, you may want to consider a specialist.
- If you have premature ejaculation or penile curvature. Both of these conditions are treatable but they require a high degree of skill and experience. For example, premature ejaculation is often an independent problem but can also be a natural outgrowth of certain other erection problems. Also, the treatments for both of these conditions are continually evolving. You want to be treated by a physician who is absolutely current on all the latest developments.
Other reasons you may want to consider seeing a specialist include:
- If there has been a sudden onset of erectile dysfunction;
- If you are under 50;
- If you have Peyronie's disease.
Some men may choose to start the process with a specialist even if they do not fit these criteria, as they may want the time that a specialist generally puts aside to evaluate, understand and get to know a patient. Also, a patient may want to fully understand the physical aspects of his problem as well as the psychological issues and ramifications. Finally, the atmosphere in a specialist's office may be more personal and private.
TAKE OUR SELF ASSESSMENT QUIZZES
Do I have Erectile Dysfunction
Do I need to See a Specialist
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