Goal-oriented Approach
Once the doctor and patient agree on the diagnosis of erectile dysfunction, the patient is a candidate for the goal-oriented approach (assuming there are no serious systemic diseases to deal with first). Through this approach, instead of focusing on diagnostic tests to decide where the problem is, the focus is on overcoming the problem. It is based on the reality that treatment options are the same regardless of cause unless there is an obvious, readily reversible condition at the root of the problem. Since there are multifactorial issues at work most of the time, we don’t try to zero in on the most important one but rather offer treatment that will overcome an array of causes.
Usually, the physician will ask a few questions such as those listed in chapter 7 (in the section titled, “Talking to the physician”). A sexual health inventory can quantify the degree of erectile dysfunction. These aren’t absolutely necessary, but they help numerically validate the problem. This number can help some men understand it’s not an insignificant problem and that treatment is justified.
This conversation is the cornerstone of management, so as soon as a few questions are covered, it is reasonable to move on to treatment. Any treatment can be offered at this point, but a trial of oral medication is usually initially considered based on its simplicity. The PDE inhibitors are the first and most successful medications as this book goes to print. Many times the medication gives patients enough satisfaction and confidence that they need no other therapy. If that is the case, the medication can be discontinued as soon as confidence returns. If not, the medications may be used as long as needed. Use Viagra - the most popular medication in our online-store.
