ED for 3 years, now with blue balls

No, I'm NOT looking for a Viagra prescription.
No, I'm NOT looking for a Viagra prescription.

I'm 50 yrs old, thin, athketic male.

Three years ago I lost much of my sex drive.  Lost ability to get erections easily.  It seemed strange so I had testosterone checked and it's normal.  I wasn't too concerned after that because I didn't have a girlfriend at the time so it was, in a way, a kind of nice break from the usual heavy sex drive.

Now I have a girlfriend though and I'd like to get a reasonable sex drive.  With and without the girlfriend my erections are not hard and are easily lost.  The same at night while sleeping.  I found that sitting up in a chair helps some.  Also an hour of intense aroebic exercise helps a little.  Still, I'm far from normal.

It's common to have sex with girlfrien and I don't get erection and therefore can't orgasm.  She's fine with that and very suportive.  But that has let to VERY painful blue balls for me.  The first time it was so bad that by the time I managed to reach orgasm while sitting up there was a tiny amount of blood in the semen.  That screwed me up for a week.

Here's my question....

If I'm sexually aroused to the point that I get severe blue balls then why/how is that the same arousal does not translate into a normal erection?!?!?

Thanks!

[Kevin Pho, MD]

I agree with obtaining the testosterone level.  Other metabolic diseases should be ruled out - including diabetes, a vitamin B12 level and a thyroid test.

An imaging study to look for vascular causes or blood flow problems should also be considered.  An ultrasound would be a reasonable initial test.

If the symptoms continue, I would consider a referral to a urologist to discuss these options.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_

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