Understanding The Basics of Erectile Dysfunction

Understanding The Basics of Erectile Dysfunction

What is Erectile Dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction (ED), which is sometimes referred to as impotence, is a condition in which getting or maintaining an erection hard enough for sexual intercourse becomes difficult. While most males are likely to get ED once in a while, roughly 1 in 10 men are likely to suffer from it regularly.

The good news is that nearly all men who have chronic erectile dysfunction are likely to find relief. 

Causes of Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction was once thought to have been due to the ageing process or for unknown psychological reasons. Times have changed, and while it can take longer to be sexually aroused when you’re older, a pattern of regular ED warrants medical attention. In older men, many urologists think physical problems contribute to the majority of ED cases. 

ED in older men

The majority of the physical causes of erectile dysfunction are down to blood vessel and circulation problems. Conditions that can also cause ED in older men include: 

• Atherosclerosis

• Diabetes

• Hormonal disorders

The nervous system is also closely involved with the physiological process involved in getting an erection. Some medications and drugs can hamper or inhibit the function of the nerves that control blood vessels around the penis. These include:

• Stimulants

• Sedatives

• Diuretics

• Antihistamines

• High blood pressure medication

• Cancer medication

• Antidepressants

• Alcohol

• Smoking 

• Recreational drugs

ED in younger men

Erectile dysfunction isn’t just a problem for older men, it’s a condition that’s becoming increasingly prevalent in younger males potentially affecting around 30 percent at some point in their lives. In otherwise healthy young men, the causes of ED tend to be overwhelmingly phycological – the following factors can all contribute to ED, no matter your age:

• Stress

• Fatigue

• Depression

• Performance Anxiety

• Lack of experience

• Feeling rejected by peers

• Past sexual trauma

Symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction

The symptoms of erectile dysfunction are classified as the following: 

• Total inability to get an erection

• Sometimes having trouble getting an erection

• Having difficulty maintaining an erection during intercourse

• Lack of sexual desire

Diagnosis for ED

The diagnosis procedure is fairly straightforward and in many cases, your doctor will ask you questions about your sexual history or any past medical questions. While this may be embarrassing to discuss, it’s important because it allows your doctor to narrow down the potential reasons for ED. 

In some cases, you may be asked for a urine or blood sample, and your doctor may issue you a mental health examination (usually involving talking to a highly trained professional). Your doctor may also ask you to get an ultrasound, to check for physical causes. 

Treatment for Erectile Dysfunction

There are several treatment options available for ED, and sometimes a combination will be used depending on the person and what may be causing it.  

Medications

Sildenafil, vardenafil, and tadalafil can be taken before sex as directed by your doctor. These all work by enhancing blood flow to the penis. These medications are very powerful and will work in most cases, as long as you’re sexually aroused. 

Lifestyle

Poor general health can also lead to ED. Poor circulation caused by a lack of physical exercise and an unhealthy diet can be big contributors to erectile dysfunction.

Counselling 

If physiological factors are believed to be causing ED, a doctor may recommend therapy with a professionally trained counsellor. 

Vacuum Devices

Sometimes referred to as penis pumps. These devices help promote blood flow to the penis and then use a rubber ring to maintain the erection for intercourse. While this may seem odd, there is scientific evidence backing the effectiveness of vacuum devices. 

Surgery

In the vast majority of cases, surgery will not be required to treat ED. However, in some cases, surgery may be required to remove a blockage or repair arteries. In very rare occurrences they may also perform surgery to install an implant.