Get the diagnosis before the prescription
The arteries of the penis are narrower than the coronary arteries, so they block earlier. This is why new erectile dysfunction in a man of forty-five deserves a proper check rather than a strip of tablets bought over the counter.
- Fasting sugar, HbA1c and lipid profile
- Morning testosterone, and thyroid or prolactin where indicated
- Blood pressure and cardiovascular risk assessment
- Review of medications — many blood pressure and antidepressant drugs cause ED
- Penile Doppler in selected cases
Treatment options in order
Treatment steps up only as far as it needs to.
- Control of diabetes, blood pressure, weight, smoking and alcohol
- PDE5 inhibitors prescribed at the correct dose and timing — most "failures" are actually incorrect use
- Testosterone replacement only where a deficiency is proven
- Intracavernosal injection therapy or vacuum devices
- Penile implant where nothing else works
Avoid unregulated clinics selling herbal courses, "shock wave packages" and secret oils. They delay the diagnosis of a treatable vascular or hormonal cause, which is the real harm.
A word on confidentiality
Consultations are private and unhurried. There is no need to bring a partner unless you want to, and nothing is discussed with anyone else. Many men attend having quietly avoided the topic for years — this is an ordinary medical problem with ordinary medical solutions.
Erectile Dysfunction Treatment — common questions
Is ED curable?
Often, yes — particularly when it comes from diabetes, hormonal problems, medication side effects or lifestyle factors that can be corrected. Where it is not reversible, it is always treatable.
Should I see a sexologist or a urologist?
A urologist or andrologist is a qualified surgeon trained in the anatomy, hormones and blood supply involved, and can investigate the underlying cause rather than just prescribe.
Are ED tablets safe to take regularly?
In appropriate patients, yes, under prescription. They are dangerous when combined with nitrates for heart disease, which is exactly why self-medication is risky.
Does ED mean low testosterone?
Usually not. Only a minority of men with ED have low testosterone, and a blood test settles it rather than assumption.
Reviewed by Dr. Kinjal Banerjee, MBBS, MS (General Surgery), DNB (Urology) — Urologist, Renal Transplant & Robotic Surgeon, Faridabad. This page explains erectile dysfunction treatment in general terms; your own treatment plan depends on your reports and examination.