Q: Local doctors don’t seem to take my problem seriously, and I don’t know who else to ask. For the last year or so I’ve had erection problems. I seldom wake up with an erection. This affects my social life because I’m afraid I won’t be able to perform. I also have no force behind my stream when I urinate. If I pee outside, I barely miss my shoes! And when I am done urinating, I have to shake and dance a great deal to get it all out, and it still leaves a spot in my pants! Sometimes I even smell like urine. This scares me. I’m only 33, 165 pounds at five feet seven inches. I never miss work due to illness, and I see a doctor only for emergencies. I smoke, drink and drink coffee. I need help and I don’t have a lot of money. Is there any inexpensive treatment or over-the-counter medication I can use?
A: It’s understandable to feel frustrated when symptoms affect both sexual and urinary health. Erection problems and urination issues often share the same root causes, particularly conditions that impact the prostate gland, nerves, or blood circulation. When urine flow weakens and erectile function declines simultaneously, it can indicate underlying vascular or hormonal disturbances that require medical evaluation.
Possible Causes
One of the most common contributors is diabetes, which can damage blood vessels and nerves responsible for both erections and bladder control. Prostate swelling (inflammation or benign prostatic hypertrophy) may also obstruct urinary flow and affect sexual function. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, excess alcohol, and caffeine intake further worsen blood circulation to the pelvic area. For a broader view on how these issues intertwine, see Correcting Diabetes-Related Erection Problems.
What You Should Do
Because untreated diabetes or prostate conditions can progress, it’s crucial to consult a urologist or primary-care physician. They can perform basic urine and blood tests to evaluate glucose, kidney function, and hormone levels. Even without insurance, community health centers often provide affordable lab testing and follow-up care. You may also benefit from reading Diet, Lifestyle & Impotence to understand how small daily changes can improve circulation and erectile response naturally.
Lifestyle and Prevention
Cutting back on smoking and alcohol, maintaining a balanced diet, and getting at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly can significantly reduce both erectile and urinary symptoms. Regular pelvic floor exercises (Kegels) help strengthen the muscles controlling urination and improve erection quality. The National Institutes of Health notes that early detection and lifestyle modification can often reverse mild erectile dysfunction and urinary complications linked to metabolic syndrome and prostate inflammation.
When to Seek Medical Help
If you experience continued dribbling, night-time urination, or persistent erectile problems, see a doctor immediately. These could signal prostate enlargement, nerve damage, or diabetes that needs prompt management. Addressing the underlying cause not only restores confidence and performance but also protects your long-term health.