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Erectile Dysfunction
Frequently Asked Questions About Erectile Dysfunction
Print
these questions and answers to discuss with your health care
provider.
1.
What Is Erectile Dysfunction?
Erectile
dysfunction, commonly referred to as ED, is the inability
to achieve and sustain an erection suitable for sexual intercourse.
2.
Is Erectile Dysfunction a Normal Part of Aging?
No. ED
doesn't have to be a part of getting older. While it is true
that older men may need more stimulation (such as stroking
and touching) to achieve an erection, they should still be
able to get an erection and enjoy sex.
3.
Can Erectile Dysfunction Be Prevented?
For people
who are at risk of developing ED due to personal behavior,
such as drinking too much alcohol, steps may be taken to prevent
its occurrence. However, other causes of ED may not be preventable.
4.
How Is Erectile Dysfunction Treated?
There
are many different ways ED can be treated, including: oral
medications, sex therapy, penile injections and surgery. Each
type of treatment has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Talk to your doctor to determine the best treatment for you.
5.
How Successful Is Viagra at Treating ED in Diabetics?
Viagra
is generally a successful therapy for erectile dysfunction,
with about 50% of people achieving positive results using
the drug with a minimum of side effects.
6.
Does Insurance Cover ED Treatment?
Insurance
coverage of ED depends upon the type of treatment prescribed.
If there is a documented medical condition that is shown to
be causing ED, insurance will usually cover at least some
of it. Sex therapy and medications that have not yet been
approved by the FDA, however, are generally not covered. Along
with sexual therapy and medications not approved by they FDA,
Medicaid does not cover vacuum constriction devices or penile
implants. Talk to your insurance provider to determine if
the treatment you are considering will be covered.
Reviewed
by the doctors at the Glickman Urological Institute at The
Cleveland Clinic.
Edited
by Charlotte Grayson, MD, WebMD, May 2004
Portions of this page © The Cleveland Clinic 2000-2004
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