Erectile dysfunction, or impotence, takes place when a man is no longer able to get an erection. This may also happen when he can no longer keep a firm erection when having sexual intercourse. It is true that having trouble getting an erection from time to time should not be a real cause for concern. However, if the problem is ongoing and persistent, it may already result in stress, personal distress, and relationship problems.
While a lot of men find it extremely awkward to seek medical assistance and consultation when they are suffering from this particular type of sexual disorder, it is important to realize just how going in for an evaluation can truly be helpful. Problems related to erection can be signs of much more serious health conditions, such as diabetes or coronary disorders. Treating the underlying problem may just be sufficient to reverse the symptoms of erectile dysfunction.
In cases wherein the problem is not resolved even after having the underlying condition treated, there are a number of treatment and medication options that may work.
Symptoms
The symptoms associated with this sexual dysfunction in men may include persistent problems in getting an erection, persistent trouble in maintaining the erection, as well as reduced desire and appetite for sexual intercourse.
Again, a lot of men tend to be too embarrassed to seek medical advice and attention when they are suffering from sexual ailments, particularly if their problems are related to erection. However, this disorder should not be allowed to continue, especially since the symptoms may be caused by far more serious health problems.
Seeing the family doctor is one of the first things that can be done when erectile problems arise. It is a good idea to see the doctor if erectile and other sexual related problems already become an issue for the patient and his partner. For those who are already suffering from existing conditions such as diabetes and coronary disorders, it is a must to go for medical consultation as soon as possible.
Causes
Sexual arousal in men is a complex process involving many different parts and functions of the body. The brain, nerves, blood vessels, muscles, hormones, and emotions are those involved in the male sexual arousal process. If a man suffers from problems affecting any of these parts, erectile dysfunction may occur. Poor mental health and stress can also cause this particular type of sexual disorder or worsen it.
There are also some instances wherein physical and psychological problems both play roles in a man suffering from erection related issues. For instance, a small physical concern slowing down sexual response may already result in a man feeling anxious about his ability to maintain his erection. This then leads to or worsens the erectile problem.
In a lot of cases, erectile dysfunction is caused by a physical factor. The most common include heart diseases, atherosclerosis, high levels of cholesterol and blood pressure, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, multiple sclerosis, low levels of testosterone, obesity, Parkinson’s disease, Peyroine’s disease, as well as surgeries and injuries affecting the spinal cord or the pelvic region. Substance abuse and alcoholism can also lead to this sexual problem.
While many cases of erectile problems are a result of something physical, there are also a number of cases wherein these has been caused by something psychological. Mental health problems such as anxiety and depression are two of them. Stress and relationship problems can also lead to or worsen the sexual ailment.
Risk Factors
As a man gets older, it may take him longer to obtain an erection. Sometimes, the firmness of the erection is also affected. However, not all cases of erectile related issues arise from one’s age. Medical conditions, the use of tobacco, being overweight, taking some types of medical drugs, undergoing certain treatments, injuries, use and abuse of drugs and alcohol, and some psychological conditions can increase a man’s risk for developing erectile dysfunction.
Available Treatment Options
One of the main reasons as to why it is extremely important for a man suffering from erectile problems to get medical assistance as soon as possible is to rule out any possible underlying disorders. In addition, seeking professional help will also allow him to resolve his problems, thus; making him enjoy his sexual life more.
There are a number of treatment options that can be used to resolve erectile dysfunction. Oral medications, such as Viagra, Cialis, Levitra, and Staxyn are just some of these. These oral drugs have been tried and tested to be effective in treating erectile problems. Basically, they enhance the functions of nitric oxide, which is a naturally occurring chemical in the body that relaxes the penis’muscles. As a result, blood flow to the penis is increased, allowing the man to obtain an erection after receiving sexual stimulation.
Some of the other available treatments for this sexual disorder include alprostadil self-injection methods, alprostadil penis suppository, and testosterone replacement. In the event that these are not recommended, penis pumps, blood vessel surgery, and penile implants may be advised by a primary health care provider.
Sexual counseling, or sex therapy, is another effective way to counter erectile dysfunction. This treatment is often recommended to those whose sexual problems are caused by psychological factors. For instance, if a man suffers from this type of sexual ailment due to depression, stress, or anxiety, his doctor may suggest him as well as his partner to go for psychological counseling. Sex therapy has also been found to be effective for other types of sexual disorders aside from erectile problems.
