QUESTION: In talking with several women recently, it appears that several husbands have lost interest and ability for sex after being diagnosed for hypertension.
The common denominator seems to be their medicine.
The men apparently are reluctant to pursue the problem.
As a doctor, what route would you take to correct this problem? These men are not too old!
ANSWER: Nowhere have I seen the power of communication more dramatically demonstrated than in your question, with all its implications.
Sharing information makes us all wiser and sometimes leads to the discovery of problems that are frequently not discussed, and from there to solutions. While male impotence may stem from many causes, both physical and psychological, there is no question that medications are frequently the culprits.
While the prescribing information may fail to take note of this unwanted side effect, there isn't a textbook worth its cost that doesn't include an impressive list of medications that reduce sexual ability.
The largest number are found under the heading "antihypertensives" with psychotropic medication, both antidepressives and antianxiety agents, next in line.
Central nervous system depressants, including alcohol, as well as sedatives and narcotics all are there as well.
Now to the route to take, and let us use the same technique to solve the problem that led to its discovery, communication.
If your husband has suddenly found himself deprived of powers he had possessed formerly, and is unaware that his medications may be doing him in, he must be suffering emotionally from this unexpected loss of his manliness.
This is kept locked up inside, frequently denied, but usually not addressed openly.
By sharing your knowledge (and this answer) with him, you can take the first step on the path that can lead to the solution you seek. Next step: the physician, who has heard this all before, but since not all men have the same reaction, is also unaware that this problem now exists. Communication, again.
Last step, a change in medication for one which will still control the hypertension, but does not generate this problem.
There are several such medications to chose from.
I hope this answer will cause many of my readers to stop and think, to determine whether or not they may be unknowing passengers in the same boat.
The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace the counsel and advice of your personal physician.
Promptly consulting your doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical problem.
