Erectile dysfunction can make it consistently challenging to achieve and sustain an erection firm enough for sexual activity. This may negatively impact both intimacy and overall well-being. However, medical options exist that can help address this issue. While some difficulty becoming or staying fully aroused may happen every now and then, erectile dysfunction is typically only a problem if satisfactory sexual performance is consistently impossible. Let’s explore this in detail:
Causes and Symptoms
Signs that someone may have erectile dysfunction (ED) include difficulty getting or maintaining an erection some or all of the time. In some cases of ED, an individual is completely unable to get an erection, no matter the circumstance. ED is commonly an indication of an underlying medical condition or health aspect that is contributing to the issue.
ED has vascular, neurologic, psychological, and hormonal causes. Common conditions generally associated with ED include diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, obesity, low testosterone, and treatment for prostate cancer. Other causes include psychological issues like performance anxiety and relationship issues.
Certain medications, particularly antidepressants, particularly SSRIs and SNRIs, like venlafaxine, can cause or worsen ED. Tobacco, alcohol, and recreational drugs, including marijuana, may also be involved, though more research is needed on marijuana’s effects. You should always consult experts from reputed clinics like best man clinic for personalised and effective treatments.
Diagnosis
Doctors have several ways to diagnose erectile dysfunction (ED). One way is to thoroughly examine a patient’s medical history to see if any health conditions or diseases are causing issues with getting or maintaining an erection.
The physical exam can provide clues about potential causes. The doctor may suspect hormonal issues related to the endocrine system based on secondary sex characteristics like hair patterns. The structure of the penis itself could provide insight into the underlying reason for the impotence.
Lab tests are also part of the process. Blood tests, urine tests, and testosterone levels are often checked in men with ED. Just as important as the physical exam is evaluating psychological factors through a psychosocial exam. This helps uncover any mental health or relationship issues that could be contributing to it.
Treatment
In the past, erectile dysfunction (ED) was approached through alchemy and aphrodisiacs, showing a limited scientific understanding. In the early 1900s, psychotherapy became the main treatment option for many years. The only medical alternative to talking therapies was the use of male hormones until the 1970s.
Treatment options today depend on a patient’s medical history, age, health conditions, and preferences. The doctor might recommend the use of oral medications, hormone therapy, or even penile implants.
The popular prescription pills for ED are sildenafil, tadalafil, and vardenafil. They work by increasing blood flow to the penis during arousal. A person takes the pill and waits 30 to 120 minutes for it to take effect. Testosterone replacement therapy can help improve low levels of testosterone in older men. Lifestyle modifications are a core part of the treatment approach for ED.
In serious cases where the condition involves permanent inability, penile implants can restore erectile function. The inflatable devices use a pump and a saline cylinder, while others are semi-rigid, offering manual control.
Endnote
Fortunately, we’ve come a long way from the early days of pseudo-scientific potions and psychotherapy as the only options for erectile dysfunction. Today’s treatments can help restore confidence and intimacy for many men. Ongoing research will give us an even deeper understanding to help address the root causes. If you or a loved one experiences ED, keep an open dialogue with your doctor.
Image by Nick Shuliahin from Unsplash
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