Ask the Experts

Questions from patients about a variety of urologic topics and answers from our urology experts. Ask the Experts has appeared in the Santa Cruz Sentinel.

Q: I just turned 55 and am concerned that my erections are not quite as rigid as they used to be. Could this be an indication of a medical problem? What can I do to maintain good sexual function as I age?

A: Erectile dysfunction (ED) is common as men age. There are a number of risk factors for ED, many of which can be influenced by a man’s choices about his health and lifestyle. The biggest risk factors for ED are diabetes, high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, heart disease, and smoking. These conditions should be treated with medications if necessary, but men can also help to preserve sexual function by losing weight, exercising, and eating a healthy diet. Many men are aware of the adverse health effects caused by smoking, including lung and bladder cancer, emphysema, and heart disease, but are unaware that smoking affects sexual function. Many men will see improvement in their erections within days of quitting smoking. A good rule about men’s health is that anything that is good for the heart is also good for sexual function. The converse of this rule is that ED may be an early indication of heart disease, and men should discuss ED and heart risk with their medical doctor. Another cause of ED is low levels of testosterone, the male sex hormone. Testosterone levels can decline as men age, and low testosterone can cause a number of symptoms including ED, decreased sex drive, depression, decreased strength, and osteoporosis. Testosterone levels can be checked with a simple blood test, and testosterone replacement can make a major difference in ED for some men. Another way for men to maintain good sexual function as they age is to be more sexually active; the adage “use it or lose it” has some truth to it! Increased frequency of intercourse may also lower the risk of prostate cancer. More information about ED and treatment options is available at our website www.montereybayurology.com.