Erectile Dysfunction

Up to 30 million American men experience some form of erectile dysfunction. At Extended Care Medical in Dothan, Alabama,, men’s health specialist Jesslyn Smith, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, and the team specialize in diagnosing and managing erectile dysfunction. Men can access various treatments, including the Priapus shot (P-shot®), Gainswave®, and prescription medication. Call Extended Care Medical today to schedule an in-office or telehealth appointment, or book online. 

I’m having difficulty keeping an erection; could I have erectile dysfunction?

It’s possible. Erectile dysfunction affects your ability to get or keep an erection long enough to have sex. Most men experience erectile dysfunction occasionally, but seeking treatment is essential if your symptoms affect your relationships, confidence, or self-esteem.  

Male sexual arousal is a complex process that involves several systems, including your brain, blood vessels, and nerves. A problem with any of these things can affect your sexual performance. Luckily, there are many treatments that provide lasting relief. 

What are the symptoms of erectile dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction symptoms include:

• Reduced sexual desire
• Trouble getting an erection
• Trouble keeping an erection
• Stress or anxiety related to sex

Erectile dysfunction doesn’t necessarily mean something is wrong, but if you’re concerned about sexual problems, the Extended Care Medical team can help. 

How is erectile dysfunction diagnosed?

Your Extended Care Medical provider reviews your medical records and asks about your symptoms. They examine your penis and testicles and test your nerves and their ability to feel sensation. 

Your provider orders several tests, including bloodwork and urinalysis. These screens check for underlying health problems, like diabetes, heart disease, and low testosterone, which can all affect your sexual performance. Your provider also completes a psychological exam to see if stress, anxiety, or depression are to blame.

After gathering a complete picture of your health, your provider makes personalized treatment recommendations. 

How is erectile dysfunction treated?

The Extended Care Medical team offers several cutting-edge treatments for erectile dysfunction, including:

The Priapus Shot (P-Shot)

The P-Shot is a type of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy. During treatment, your provider injects a platelet-rich solution made from your own blood into several strategic places on your penis. The injections increase blood flow and spur new tissue growth, resulting in firmer erections.

Gainswave

Gainswave is a noninvasive procedure that uses pulsed acoustic wave technology to increase blood flow to your penis. The pulsed energy breaks up plaques inside your blood vessels that cause erectile dysfunction.

Prescription medication

Several prescription medications treat erectile dysfunction, including Viagra and Cialis. These drugs increase blood flow to your penis, making it easier to get an erection when you’re sexually aroused.

Call Extended Care Medical today to schedule erectile dysfunction treatment or book your visit online.