Erectile Dysfunction Specialist

Kiavash Nikkhou, MD

Board Certified Urologist & Kidney Stone Specialist located in Thousand Oaks, CA

More than 50% of men experience erectile dysfunction at some point, so it’s important to know you’re not alone if you’re struggling with this type of sexual dysfunction. Dedicated board-certified urologist Kiavash Nikkhou, MD, understands the frustrations and challenges you’re facing, and he’s ready to help with an array of medical and surgical treatment options in his Thousand Oaks, California, office. Call the office or schedule an appointment online today.

Erectile Dysfunction Q & A

What is erectile dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction means difficulty having or keeping an erection, which prevents satisfactory sexual activity. It's not uncommon to experience occasional erectile dysfunction, but it's a chronic problem for many men. 

What causes erectile dysfunction?

Many different situations could cause erectile dysfunction, including: 

Psychological issues

Psychological issues, such as depression and anxiety, can affect your physical health, including your sexual function. 

Vascular issues

Vascular issues can occur because of diabetes, heart disease, physical trauma to the pelvis, and other conditions. These conditions restrict the blood flow to your groin and can inhibit your ability to achieve and maintain an erection.

Nerve issues

Nerve issues can occur with diabetes, neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis, excessive alcohol use, and other reasons. Nerve damage prevents normal signaling and sensation, which interferes with erections.

Endocrine issues

Endocrine system issues like low testosterone, thyroid disorders, and hypogonadism can cause a hormone imbalance that disrupts your sex drive and function. 

Medication

Medication can affect sex drive and function, with common culprits including some hypertension drugs, antidepressants, and sedatives, among many others. 

Medical treatments

Specific treatments for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostate cancer, and other prostate conditions can also lead to erectile dysfunction.

Dr. Nikkhou can help with most reasons for erectile dysfunction, but he may refer you to a psychologist or other professional if your problem is psychological.

How is erectile dysfunction diagnosed?

Dr. Nikkhou takes a complete medical history and performs a physical exam along with a cardiovascular risk evaluation. 

Depending on the suspected causes of your erectile dysfunction, Dr. Nikkhou may perform lab tests to see if you have an elevated PSA level, low testosterone, or other issues. 

How is erectile dysfunction treated?

There's no reason to live with an unsatisfactory sex life. Dr. Nikkhou offers a variety of treatment options, including:

  • Lifestyle and behavioral changes
  • Oral medications like Viagra®, Cialis®, and Levitra®
  • Penile injections
  • Vacuum erection device

Dr. Nikkhou is also an expert in surgical erectile dysfunction treatments. He often performs a procedure to place an inflatable implant within the penis. You use a tiny pump and release valve inside your scrotum to inflate the implant for sexual activity and then deflate it afterward. 

Penis pumps aren't visible to others, and they allow you to enjoy regular sexual activity when it's otherwise impossible. 

Learn more about all the options for erectile dysfunction treatment by calling Kiavash Nikkhou, MD, or schedule an appointment online today.