DEAR DR. GOTT: I suffer from erectile dysfunction. Consequently, I am unable to enjoy normal sexual relations. My doctor has prescribed medicine for my high blood pressure and I’m wondering if the drug, a beta-blocker, could be to blame. I’m 52 and in otherwise good health. How should I proceed?

DEAR READER> Erectile dysfunction, formerly known as impotence, has many causes, an important one being a side effect of drugs used for depression and hypertension. Although your doctor may feel comfortable altering your dose of beta-blocker, or changing therapy altogether, I believe the next step is for you to be examined by a urologist. Request a referral.

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

DEAR DR. GOT$> In your column, you recently answered a reader telling you about poor conditions of nursing homes. She stated that understaffing, inadequate training, apathetic attitudes and high employee turnover are all contributing factors.

The reader wanted to know how you wish to be cared for. You answered, “As far as finding myself in such a facility, forget it.”

My question is, if you are ever in a situation in which you might need a nursing home, what would you do? If there were no one to care for you at home, how would you avoid going to a nursing home? I’m sure other readers of your column would like to know.

DEAR READ<$> I have yet to address this issue, but I know that assisted living in a nursing home would not be at the top of my list for the future. I would first opt for home care. However, like most doctors, I’ll probably take each day as it comes and hope that at least my brain will remain in gear.

DEAR DR. G:<$> I love food seasoned with garlic, but, unfortunately, the people on the receiving end don’t like it as much as I do. Do you have any suggestions on how I can continue to enjoy my garlic and not offend others?

DEAR RER:<$> I recommend that you prepare your food separately from the rest of the family’s. This way you can still enjoy your garlic and your family can have a garlic-free meal. You may also consider cutting back on your intake, reserving it for one or two meals per week. However, if you consume garlic on a regular basis for health reasons, such as elevated cholesterol, you may consider taking garlic pills, which also come in an odorless variety.

To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Coronary Artery Disease.” Other readers who would like a copy should send a long, self-addressed, stamped envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.