Dr. Gott: Impotence a result of prostate-gland removal

Dear Dr. Gott: My husband is 79 years old, and 20 years ago he was diagnosed with prostate cancer. He opted to have surgery and had a complete removal of the prostate.

Of course, it made him impotent, and now after all these years he wants to send away for things he sees in catalogs, like pills that guarantee an erection.

Now he is thinking about sending for one of those vacuum pumps.

Do you think any of these things would work for him? He won’t talk to his doctor about this, and I should add he has heart problems.

Dear Reader: Removal of the prostate gland almost always results in some degree of erectile dysfunction. This may range from intermittent to complete impotence.

In your husband’s case, nonprescription pills probably would be useless. But a trial of prescription medication, such as Viagra or Cialis, might be worth a try.

He should overcome his embarrassment and speak to his doctor about this very personal matter.

With respect to the vacuum pump, I keep an open mind. I have post-prostate-surgery patients, who, with the pump, can have something resembling sexual intercourse. Others cannot.

It’s a trial-and-error situation.

A third option – one that appeals to many spouses – is for your husband to thank his lucky stars that he overcame his cancer, give up any dream of potency, and simply be satisfied with cuddling and other nonorgasmic activities. Let me know what he chooses.

To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my health report “Erectile Dysfunction.” Other readers who would like a copy should send a long, self-addressed, stamped envelope and $2 to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.

Dear Dr. Gott: My doctor requested a bone-density test. I have osteoporosis.

He wants me to take Actonel. It’s hard to swallow pills without a piece of bread or crackers. Actonel says no food is to be taken.

Have you ever heard of bone meal taken for any health reasons?

Dear Reader: I am not aware that bone meal, a product that is rich in calcium, is recommended for any bone disorder. Modern calcium supplements in pill form appear to be more appropriate therapy for conditions such as osteoporosis.

Ask your doctor about this.