The article in brief
Male impotence is a common problem after the age of 40, and requires accurate diagnosis. Here are the key points to remember:
- The symptoms include frequent erectile dysfunction and reduced libido
- The causes can be physical (cardiovascular disease, diabetes) or psychological (stress, anxiety)
- Le diagnostic involves a clinical examination and additional tests
- Treatments vary depending on the cause: medication, psychotherapy or medical devices.
Male impotence is a sensitive issue that affects many men, particularly after the age of 40. As an urologist, I regularly see patients concerned about this problem. Today I'm going to explain how to recognise the signs of impotence and what steps to take to obtain an accurate diagnosis.
Symptoms of male impotence
Impotence, also known as erectile dysfunction, is characterised by inability to obtain or maintain a sufficient erection for a satisfactory sexual relationship. For a diagnosis to be made, these difficulties must have persisted for at least three months. Here are the main signs to look out for:
- Frequent erectile dysfunction
- Incomplete or "limp" erections
- Short-lasting erections
- A noticeable drop in libido
- Difficulty reaching orgasm or ejaculating
It's important to note that anxiety about sexual performance can also be a sign of incipient impotence. I've often found that this anxiety can create a vicious circle, aggravating erectile dysfunction.
The psychological impact of impotence
Impotence can have significant psychological consequences. It can lead to a loss of self-esteem, anxiety and even depression. That's why it's vital not to ignore these symptoms and to consult a health professional as soon as possible.
When should you worry?
If you notice that these problems persist over an extended period, it's time to seek help. Don't wait for the situation to get worse. The sooner you act, the greater the chances of resolving the problem.
The origins of impotence: physical and psychological causes
Impotence can have a variety of causes, both physical and psychological. As a specialist, I always try to determine the precise cause for each patient. Here's an overview of the main causes:
Physical causes of impotence
Several organic factors can cause erectile dysfunction:
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Diabetes
- Hormonal disorders
- Certain medicines (antidepressants, antihypertensives)
- Excessive consumption of alcohol, tobacco or drugs
Age is also a major risk factor. Around 30 to 40% of men over the age of 40 are affected by impotence to varying degrees.
Psychological causes
Impotence can also be psychological in origin. Stress, anxiety, depression or relationship problems can affect erectile function. In my practice, I have often observed that presence of normal nocturnal or morning erections suggests a psychological rather than a physical origin.
| Physical causes | Psychological causes |
|---|---|
| Cardiovascular diseases | Stress |
| Diabetes | Anxiety |
| Hormonal disorders | Depression |
| Drug side effects | Relationship problems |
Diagnosing impotence: a comprehensive medical approach
For find out if you are impotentit is vital to consult a doctor. As aas a urologist, I specialise in this type of diagnosis. Here are the steps we generally follow:
Clinical examination and questioning
The first step is a detailed medical interview and a full physical examination. We discuss your medical history, lifestyle and specific symptoms. This conversation is crucial in guiding the diagnosis.
Additional examinations
Depending on the results of the initial examination, I may prescribe various tests:
- Blood tests to check blood sugar and hormone levels
- Nocturnal rigidometry to assess the quality of erections during sleep
- Doppler ultrasound of the penile vessels to detect any vascular problems
These examinations give us an overall view of your state of health and enable us to determine the precise cause of your erectile dysfunction.
Towards appropriate care
Once the diagnosis has been made, we can consider different treatment options. The treatment approach will depend on the identified cause of the impotence.
Drug treatments
For physical causes, oral medications such as Viagra and its equivalents may be prescribed. In some cases, intracavernosal injections may be considered. It is important to note that these treatments must be prescribed and monitored by a doctor.
Non-medicinal approaches
Other options include the use of vacuum devices or, in the most severe cases, penile prostheses. For psychological causes, psychotherapy may be recommended, often as a complement to other treatments.
Finally, impotence is a problem that can be treated effectively in the majority of cases. Don't hesitate to seek help if you have any doubts. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can greatly improve your quality of life and sexual well-being.
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