home *** CD-ROM | disk | FTP | other *** search
- $Unique_ID{BRK00979}
- $Pretitle{}
- $Title{Advice About Declining Sexual Ability}
- $Subject{sex impotence age aging behavior behaviors lifestyle lifestyles
- impotence erection sexual dysfunction prescription medications alcohol illegal
- drugs marijuana cocaine amphetamines narcotics prescriptions medication}
- $Volume{T-23}
- $Log{}
-
- Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993 Tribune Media Services, Inc.
-
-
- Advice About Declining Sexual Ability
-
-
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-
- QUESTION: I have a question of a rather delicate nature, that I would find
- too embarrassing to ask my personal physician about. Though not an old man by
- today's standards, I find my sexual ability declining. I know my wife would
- appreciate more attention, but don't know what to do about my situation. I am
- hoping you may provide some advice in your column.
-
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-
- ANSWER: I am always a bit disheartened when I learn that someone feels
- restrained in discussing an intimate problem with a physician. It means that
- the relationship is faulty at a time when it is most needed to help with a
- problem that is not easy to correct. While I am happy to offer you some
- insight, I truly hope that you will continue your search for a solution with
- the consultation and advice that only a personal family physician can offer.
- Your problem is not a rare one for impotence, defined as the inability to
- achieve and maintain an erection adequate for vaginal penetration to the
- mutual satisfaction of both partners, is one of the most common forms of
- sexual dysfunction. In one form or another it may be a problem for more than
- 20 million American men. It may be either a physical or mental problem. One
- of the most easily remedied causes of impotence stems from the unwanted side
- effects of many prescription medications. Antianxiety, antidepressant and
- antipsychotic medications, sedatives, some blood pressure medications, as well
- as medication used for stomach ulcers and epilepsy must be included in the
- long list of prescription medications that may be causing your situation.
- Review any medication you are now on with your physician, as changing or
- altering dosages may lead to a remedy. Of course, alcohol, illegal drugs;
- marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, narcotics and yes, nicotine may all be the
- culprit. The presence of an erection (nocturnal penile tumescence) is an
- indication that the patient is physically capable of a normal erection, and
- may be discovered by using one of a number of home monitors which are now
- available. You are also entitled to a complete physical examination, and
- laboratory workup to assist in determining the reasons for your problem.
- There are many causes for impotence, and it is not a condition that is either
- all black or all white. Many new effective techniques and treatments now
- exist, but you will only discover which is best for you by confiding your
- problem to you doctor.
-
- ----------------
-
- The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
- the counsel and advice of your personal physician. Promptly consulting your
- doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
- problem.
-
-