Advanced Family Medicine

What Causes Erectile Dysfunction? Intimacy is one of a man’s most basic needs, and anything that interferes the ability to be intimate is a serious issue.  A surprising number of men today suffer from a condition called erectile dysfunction (ED), its causes are either psychological or physical, and while it can be embarrassing to bring up with your doctor, there are some very effective treatments available. What Causes ED? Physical Conditions One of the most common causes for ED is a lack of blood flow to the genital area – which is a symptom of smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, alcohol abuse, drug abuse, abnormal hormone levels, aging, medication side-effects etc. Psychological Conditions Often times depression, performance anxiety, fatigue, among other reasons contribute to ED. By itself loss of libido could be a sign of depression, impotence by itself is a depressing experience for any man, and can sometimes compound the issue. Many times men are too embarr...

Vitamin D - Myth and Reality Vitamin D deficiency is known now as a significant problem, especially in the Seattle area due to our frequent gloomy weather and general lack of sun. The human body, through sun exposure, naturally absorbs Vitamin D; however the same rays that deliver vitamin D also increase the risk of skin cancer—and sunscreens block vitamin D absorption—thus creating the need to supplement vitamin D levels. There is much debate today about vitamin D deficiency and how it affects our health. Some of the debate is constructive and raises valid concerns, and some is controversial and has no scientific basis. In this paper, we will separate fact from fiction about vitamin D deficiency.  Myth: The more Vitamin D intake the better. Reality: The Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) of Vitamin D for an adult is around 2000 u and for a child- 400 u. However, the RDA for you may be different, a personal recommendation from your health care provider regarding vit...