ANSWERS OvercomeErectile Dysfunction (NAPSA)—Medieal science has produced a numberof treatments to address a condition that affects one out of every 10 men—acondition that, due to feelings of embarrassment, often isn’t discussed with a physician. What’s worse, this condition can play havoc with a man’s intimate relationships, not to mention his self-esteem. Erectile dysfunction (ED), also known as “impotence,” is defined as the inability to achieve or maintain a firm erection. ED can be frustrating and depressing, especially if well-publicized treatments such as Viagra havefailed. ED mayalso be indicative of other health concerns, such as heart disease, diabetes and prostate cancer. For example, according to a study of 27,000 men, those with ED were more than twice as likely to have diabetes as those with normal erectile function. Similarly, heart disease and ED have the same cellular cause, and patients with ED have a higher risk of angina and heart attack. However, according to the Erectile Dysfunction Institute (EDi), a network of experienced doctors and nurses, nearly every man who has ED can be helped. In addition to Viagra, treatment options include shots, pumps and a urethral suppository. Still, all of these treatments require planning before they take effect which reduces romantic spontaneity. Many men—more than 20,000 per year—seek a more spontaneous and permanent solution: penile implants. A penile implant not only treats ED, it resolves it. The pro- Treatments are available for erectile dysfunction, which affects one in 10 men. cedure is generally considered as a 23-hour stay or outpatient procedure. The implant is completely internal and concealed, and most men who have the procedure report that it feels “natural.” For nearly 30 years, penile implants have been improved by distinguished technological refinements. Nearly 300,000 men have had implants, and more than 90 percent of American mencall their procedure a success. Is an implant right for you? Your health, your tolerance for surgery and your partner’s opinion should all be considered. The best advice is to speak with a urologist who is experienced in treating ED. To learn more about ED and the latest treatments, or to find a urologist near you, visit the EDi Web site at www.cure-ed.org or call toll free 866-294-7504 to speak to an EDi nurse.
