Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

What is Erectile Dysfunction (ED)?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) occurs when a man has consistent and repeated problems sustaining an erection. without treatment, ED can make sexual intercourse difficult. According to the Massachusetts male aging study on sexual dysfunction, the problem can first emerge in a man as early as 40. Based on the study an estimated 18 - 30 million men are affected by ED.

There are several forms of male sexual dysfunction, including poor libido and problems with ejaculation. But ED refers specifically to problems achieving or maintaining and erection. Men with ED often have a healthy libido, yet the body fails to respond. In most cases, there is a physical basis for the problem.

Symptoms of ED

This include:-

• Erections that are too soft for sexual intercourse
• Erection that last only briefly
• An inability to achieve erections

Man who cannot get or maintain an erection (75% of the time that they attempt sex) are considered to have erectile dysfunction.

Sexual dysfunction and ED become more common as men age. According to the Massachusetts male aging study, about 40% of men experience some degree of ED at age 40, compared with 70% of men at age 70. And the percentage of complete ED increase from 5% to 15% as age increase from 40 to 70 years. But this does not mean growing older is the end of your sex life. ED can be treated at any age.

An erection occurs when blood fills two chambers known as the corpora cavernosa. This causes the penis to expand and stiffen, much like a balloon as it is filled with water.  The process is trigered by impulse from the brain and genital nerves. Anything that blocks these impulses or restricts blood flow to the penis can result in ED.

Causes of ED

1. Chronic Disease

The link between chronic disease and ED is most striking for diabetes. Nearly on out of every two men with diabetes experiences ED. Yet evidence shows that blood sugar control can minimize this risks. Other conditions that may cause ED include Cardiovascular disease, atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), kidney disease, and multiple sclerosis. These illnesses can impair blood from flow or nerve impulse throughout the body.

2. Lifestyle

Lifestyle choices that impair blood circulation can contribute to ED. Smoking, Excessive drinking, and drug abuse may damage the blood vessels and reduce blood flow to the penis. Smoking makes men with atherosclerosis particularly vulnerable to ED. Smokers have almost twice the risks of ED compared with non smokers. Being overweight and getting too little exercise also contribute to ED. Studies indicate that men who exercise regularly have a lower risk of ED.

3. Surgery

Surgery, including treatment for prostrate cancer, bladder cancer, or BPH can sometimes damage nerves and blood vessels near the penis.  In some cases, the nerve damage is permanent and the patient will require treatment to achieve an erection. In others, surgery causes temporary ED that improves on its own after 6 to 18 months.

4. Medication

ED may be a side effect of medication, including certain blood pressure drugs, antidepressants, and tranquilizers. Men should talk with their doctor if they suspect a prescription or over-the-counter drug may be causing erectile problem.

5. Psychological

ED usually has something physical behind it, particularly in older men. But psychological, factors may be to blame in 10% to 20% of men with ED. Experts say stress, depression, poor self esteem, and performance anxiety can short-circuit the process that leads to an erection. These factors can also make the problem worse in men whose ED stems from something physical.

6. Bicycling

Research suggests avid cyclist suffer more ED that other athletes. The troubles lies in the shape of some bicycle seats that put pressure on the perineum. This area between the anus an scrotum contains arteries and nerves vital to sexual arousal. Cyclist who ride for many hours each week may benefit from seat designed to protect the perineum.

Treatment

1. Lifestyle Changes

Many men with ED are able to improve sexual function by making a few lifestyle changes. Giving up smoking, losing weight, and exercising more often can help by improving blood flow.

2. Oral Medications

You're probably heard of Vigra, but it's not the only pill for ED. This class of drugs also includes Cialis, Levitra, Staxyn, and Stendra. All work by improving blood flow to the penis during arousal. They're generally taken 30 - 60 minutes before sexual activity and should not be used more than once a day. Cialis can be taken up to 36 hours before sexual activity and also come in a lower, daily dose. Staxyn dissolve in the mouth. All requires an OK from your doctor first for safety.

3. Injections

While pills for ED are convenient, some men sustain stronger erections by injecting medication directly into the penis. Drugs approved for this purpose work by widening the blood vessels, cause the penis to become engorged with blood. Another option is inserting a medicated pellet into the urethra. The pellet can trigger an erection with 10 minutes.

4. Vacuum Devices (Pumps)

Vacuum Devices for ED, also called pumps, offer an alternative to medication. The penis is placed inside a cylinder. A pump draws air out of the cylinder, creating a partial vacuum around the penis. This cause it to fill with blood, leading to an erection. An elastic band worn around the base of the penis maintains the erection during intercourse.

5. Surgery.

If ED  caused by a blockage in an artery leading to the penis, surgery can often restore blood flow.

6. Implants 

In men with persistent ED, a penile implant can restore sexual function.

7. Psychotherapy

Even when ED has a known physical cause. Psychotherapy can be beneficial. A therapist can teach the man and his partner techniques to reduce performance anxiety and improve intimacy. Therapy can also help couples adjust to the use of vacuum devices and implants.

8. Alternative Therapies

Talk with your doctor before trying supplements for ED. They can contain 10 or more ingredients and may complicate other health conditions.  

9. Buyer Beware

A quick web search will reveal dozens of "dietary supplements" that claim to treat ED.

10. Depression

Being depressed can shut off pleasure in many things, including sex. That's one of many reasons to get help. If your treatment involves medication, tell your doctor if your sex drive is low, since some (but not all) depression drugs lower sex drive. Talk about it with your therapist.