Things You Should Know About Erectile Dysfunction

What Is Erectile Dysfunction (ED)?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is when a man has persistent problems obtaining an erection and/or maintaining it. Erectile dysfunction without medication and male enhancement pills, can make sexual intercourse difficult. According to the Massachusetts Male Aging Report on Sexual Dysfunction, erectile dysfunction may first occur in a man as early as 40. We have also found that the erectile dysfunction affects an additional 18 to 30 million people.

Symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction.

Symptoms of erectile dysfunction include erections that are too soft for sexual intercourse, short-lived erections and a failure to achieve erections. Men who can not have or maintain an erection, are known to have erectile dysfunction at least 75 percent of the time they attempt sex.

Who Are Getting Erectile Dysfunction?

When men age, the sexual dysfunction is more prominent. According to the Massachusetts Male Aging Survey, about 40% of men experience some degree of inability to have or maintain an erection at 40 years of age compared to 70% of men at 70 years of age. And the number of people with erectile dysfunction rises as age increases from 40 to 70 years from 5 percent to 15 percent. One can treat erectile dysfunction at any age.

The Dysfunction Behind Erectile Mechanics.

The erection happens as blood fills two chambers in the penis (known as the cavernosa corpora) It allows the penis to stretch and to stiffen, as it is filled with water, much like a balloon. The cycle is activated by brain-and genital nerve impulses. Anything that interferes with those impulses or restricts the flow of blood to the penis can lead to erectile dysfunction.

Diagnosis of Erectile Dysfunction: Physical Exam.

The doctor will ask questions about the signs and medical history to diagnose erectile dysfunction. To diagnose poor circulation or nerve dysfunction, a complete physical examination is performed. The doctor should check for genital area anomalies which could cause erection problems.

Diagnosis of Erectile Dysfunction: Lab Studies.

Many laboratory tests can help diagnose male sexual issues. Measuring the levels of testosterone will decide whether there is a hormonal imbalance, which is often correlated with reduced desire.

Such tests can disclose the underlying causes of ED:

• Counts of Blood Cells.
• Levels of Cholesterol.
• Levels of Blood sugar.
• Tests on Liver Function.

Treatment for Erectile Dysfunction:

Lifestyle changes.
Often men with erectile dysfunction can improve their sexual function by making some changes in lifestyle. Stopping smoking, weight loss and regular exercise can benefit by increasing blood flow. If you think that a drug might contribute to erectile dysfunction, talk about it to your doctor.

Oral Medications.

While popularized in the media, Viagra is not the only erectile dysfunction drug. Certain drugs for erectile dysfunction include:

• Cialis
• Levitra
• Staxyn
• Stendra

During stimulation, these drugs work by increasing blood flow to the penis, and are administered 30 to 60 minutes before sexual activity. They’re not to be used more than once a day. Cialis can be administered up to 36 hours prior to sexual activity and in a lower daily dose as well. Staxyn dissolves through the mouth. Both include a prescription from a doctor for protection.

Injections

There are also injectable erectile dysfunction medications. Many people inject these drugs directly into the penis to support better erections. Both drugs work by expanding the arteries of the body, causing blood to consume the penis. Another alternative is an urethra-inserted medicated pellet that can cause an erection within 10 minutes. Prior to use, patients will discuss the use of such injections with their doctor in detail.

Surgery

If a blockage in an artery leading to the penis causes erectile dysfunction, surgery may be used to restore blood flow. Optimal candidates are typically younger men whose blockage stems from an injury to the crotch or pelvis. Older men with widespread narrowing of arteries throughout their bodies are not recommended to undergo surgery.

Psychotherapy

Even when erectile dysfunction has a known physical cause, psychotherapy can be helpful for people with erectile dysfunction. The therapist will advise the man and his partner on strategies to reduce anxiety about success and enhance intimacy. Therapy can also help couples adapt to the use of implants and vacuum machines.