Low testosterone can cause ED

May 9, 2010 By

DEAR DR. GOTT: I am a 54-year-old male. I’ve had ED problems for about 10 years, resolved through the use of Viagra. But why? I do have low testosterone levels, for which I take injections, but for the most part I am healthy, fit, not overweight, a nonsmoker, a nonalcoholic-beverage drinker and, per my physician, do not suffer from any other cardiovascular problems. So why do I have blood-flow problems in this one department?

DEAR READER: Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects almost 30 million American men. Almost every man will experience difficulty achieving and maintaining an erection at some stage of his life. This is normal when the instances are infrequent.
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January 3, 2009 By

DEAR DR. GOTT:
I’m an older gentleman with a question. Can you tell me about testosterone?

DEAR READER:
The male body produces a hormone known as testosterone. This hormone helps maintain bone density, muscle mass and strength, sex drive, the production of red blood cells, and sperm. Levels generally peak during adolescence and early adulthood. Then at the age of 40 or so, production is lessened. As a general rule, the decline is gradual.

A higher than normal testosterone level has been linked with an increased risk of prostate cancer or an enlarged prostate. Lower than normal levels have been associated with memory loss, mood changes, erectile dysfunction, and depression.

Synthetic testosterone is available by prescription. While studies reveal the supplemental form can bring [Read more...]

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November 24, 2008 By

DEAR DR. GOTT:
I am a 57-year-old male 170 pounds, 5’ 11” tall. I drink very little and don’t smoke. I have also been married for 35 years.

About a year ago I noticed a downward spiral in my energy level and ability to exercise. I also began having erection problems.

I had a complete physical done. My cholesterol was 144, blood pressure was 116/60, heart rate was 60 beats per minute and my fasting blood sugar was 90. My doctor also ordered a testosterone level which was low at 249. I was then put on Androgel 7.5 mg daily. I have been using it for six months and my testosterone level is now 246. I have not had any change in my symptoms at all.

Is there anywhere to go from here? Would testosterone injections be better?

DEAR READER:
So-called normal testosterone levels range from 300-1000. Your level of 246 is just below normal. [Read more...]

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October 23, 2008 By

DEAR DR. GOTT:
My husband is 52 years old, six feet tall and 230 pounds. His cholesterol is 198 and he also has high blood pressure. He has been taking atenolol for 20 years which has controlled it well. He has physical every year.

My reason for writing is because since late spring or early summer, he has been experiencing erectile dysfunction. His doctor gave him samples of Levitra which have not helped. We have never had a problem before this summer and I can tell it is affecting his self-esteem. My question to you is, should he go back to his physician to try other drugs or should he be seen by a urologist for testing?

DEAR READER:
I believe that your husband would benefit from being examined and tested by a urologist.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is common, especially as men age. [Read more...]

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