Questions to Ask Your Health Care Provider About Erectile Dysfunction

Talking about erectile dysfunction to anyone­—your partner, your best friend, your doctor—can be uncomfortable.

But because your doctor is most likely to be the person who can help treat your erectile dysfunction, it’s an embarrassment you’ll need to get over in order to get back to enjoying a good sex life.

Here are some questions you can take with you to your appointment.

What are some of the physical causes of erectile dysfunction?

There are quite a few health conditions and lifestyle choices that cause erectile dysfunction. These include heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and atherosclerosis, and sometimes, the medications used to treat ailments. In addition, smoking, drug use, and excessive alcohol consumption can all lead to erectile dysfunction.

Could low testosterone be causing my erectile dysfunction?

Low testosterone, sometimes called Low T or, more formally, hypogonadism, can be a factor in erectile dysfunction, but not every man with erectile dysfunction has low testosterone.

Are erectile dysfunction drugs right for me?

Oftentimes, the answer will come in the form of trial and error when it comes to erectile dysfunction medications. But according to Harvard Health, about 70% of men find relief for erectile dysfunction in medications like Viagra and Cialis.

Cialis and other erectile dysfunction pills all work a bit differently, so if one doesn’t work, try another. In addition, they each have their own side effects, so you’ll need to find out if you can tolerate them. The most commonly reported side effects of erectile dysfunction drugs are a headache, congestion, flushing, upset stomach and vision problems, among others.

What lifestyle changes can I make to help my erectile dysfunction?

In addition to quitting smoking and reducing alcohol and/or drug consumption, it’s important to stay physically active and to eat a healthy diet. Maintaining a healthy weight can also reduce the risk of health problems that lead to erectile dysfunction, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease.