“I have noticed that it is harder to maintain an erection. I’m 55 years old and otherwise healthy. Is this no

Answer: Thank you for your question on this sensitive issue. Know you are not alone, and treatment options are available. Difficulty maintaining an erection or erectile dysfunction has multiple causes including lifestyle habits, medications, diet, and psychological factors. Treatments usually target one or more of these factors.

First, erectile dysfunction can be prevented or slowed by living a healthy lifestyle. This includes regular exercise and eating a healthy diet. The Mediterranean diet, which includes fruits, vegetables and whole grains, has been shown to reduce the incidence of erectile dysfunction. Try to avoid foods containing refined oils such as canola oil, refined grains such is white bread and white pasta, and foods with added sugars.

Treatments for erectile dysfunction increase blood flow to the affected organ. These treatments include medications, external pumps, and self-injections. While all these treatments are effective, they do carry side effects and must be discussed in detail with a medical provider. Surgical treatments are also available in cases where the more conservative treatments fail or are not an adequate option.

For more information please call to schedule an appointment with Washington Regional Ozark Urology at 479-404-1100.