A man's lifestyle is important to both preventing and correcting impotence. That includes controlling all the factors related to developing fatty-cholesterol deposits that cause heart attacks and strokes. Not smoking, getting adequate exercise, avoiding obesity, and following a proper diet low in fat, low in saturated fat, and low in cholesterol all help to protect the arterial system that supplies the penis. Testosterone may be given to men who have low testosterone levels. These drugs cause an erection that lasts for 30 to 45 minutes.
Nerve damage is a common cause of impotence in men who have had spinal cord injuries.
Now, with the use of an electric probe, there is a method of producing erection and ejaculation in men with this problem. The prosthesis will not increase sexual desire that is blocked by psychological factors. The oldest prosthesis is two silicone rods implanted directly into the cylinders of the shaft of the penis. There is also an inflatable penile prosthesis. Many men with impotence due to physical causes can be restored to normal sexual function.