Erectile dysfunction is one of the most devastating problems for many men. Not only can it affect a man’s ability to perform in the bedroom, but it can also lead to relationship problems and destroy one’s self-esteem. Sometimes erectile dysfunction can have a more serious underlying cause, so it’s important to talk to a doctor about it even if you feel embarrassed about it. If you are suffering from erectile dysfunction, the top erectile dysfunction treatments for seniors may be able to help. Drugs for erectile dysfunction can restore your sexual performance and give you back your confidence. Read on to learn more about the top 3 erectile dysfunction treatments for seniors and find out what they can do for you.
Viagra
Viagra is one of the most popular treatments for erectile dysfunction. Viagra is a nitrate drug that works to treat erectile dysfunction by relaxing the muscles in the walls of blood vessels, as well as increase blood flow to certain areas of the body, like the genitals. Individuals who are taking nitrate drugs for heart problems should not take Viagra. The Viagra pill should be taken once a day, a half-hour to one hour before sexual activity, but it can be taken as much as 4 hours before. Side effects of Viagra include headache, congestion and vision problems. Unfortunately, Viagra is not covered by Medicare or Medicare Advantage plans, so seniors may need to pay entirely out of pocket for the drug.
Highlights:
- Taken once a day
- Not covered by Medicare or Medicare Advantage plans
- Few side effects for most people
Cialis
Cialis, another nitrate drug also allows relaxes muscles and increases blood flow to the penis. In addition to erectile dysfunction, Cialis can also treat enlarged prostate. Common side effects of Cialis include dyspepsia and headache. However, respiratory tract infection, congestion and cough may also occur. Cialis should only be taken once a day with or without food, but before sexual activity. Erections should not last more than 4 hours, otherwise you should speak to a doctor right away. As with other oral medications for erectile dysfunction, Medicare will not cover Cialis, not even under Medicare Part D, nor will Medicare Advantage plans if you have one.
Highlights:
- Can be taken with food, once a day
- Not covered by Medicare or Medicare Advantage
- May cause respiratory infection
Surgery
One treatment option for erectile dysfunction that is covered by Medicare is penile implant surgery. With penile implant surgery, two or more rods are placed on both sides of the penis. Inflatable rods allow men to control the time and duration of an erection. While surgery is usually a last resort option, this is one of the only erectile dysfunction treatments that is covered by Medicare. Additionally, Medicare Advantage plans like UnitedHealthcare Medicare will cover this surgery as well, so you end up paying very little. However, this surgery will likely only be covered if erectile dysfunction is occurring due to an underlying problem such as diabetes, hypertension and prostate cancer treatment, among other causes.
Highlights:
- Meant for patients with underlying conditions
- Covered by Medicare and Medicare Advantage
- More invasive option
Conclusion
Because of the effects of erectile dysfunction can harm a man’s sense of worth, and can also signify a bigger underlying concern, it’s important to talk to a doctor right away about treatment options. While drugs like Viagra and Cialis are not covered by Medicare, if you cannot afford to pay out of pocket, there may be another option.