Erectile Dysfunction Its Causes and Treatment

Erectile dysfunction (ED) also called impotence is defined as the persistent inability to achieve or sustain an erection that satisfies a man's sexual needs and the needs of his partner. An estimated 30 million American men suffer from ED. Erectile dysfunction may be chronic, it may be a one time occurrence or on rare occasions. A one time or on a few rare occasions may be frustrating at the time but is not considered chronic impotence.

Having a clear understanding of chronic ED is beneficial in to dealing with the condition both for the man and for his partner. This article will address the causes, diagnosis and treatment of erectile dysfunction.

Understanding an Erection.

There are four key components necessary in achieving and sustaining an erection.

Healthy blood vessels to transport blood to the penis.

Healthy nerves that controls the erection.

The male hormone testosterone secreted by the testicles.

The desire to be sexually stimulated.

The absence of any of these factors can result in temporary or chronic ED.

An erection begins in the brain due to the following chemicals, epinephrine, nitric oxide and acetylcholine that sparks an arousal.

Messages are then sent to the vascular system causing a rush of blood to the penis. Two arteries in the penis supply the blood to the erectile tissues and the corpora cavernosa.

The rush of blood to these arteries engorges and expands the penis. The penile tissue must remain rigid to prevent the blood from leaving the penis during an erection. After ejaculation occurs the penile pressure decreases the blood is released and the penis returns to its normal shape and size.

Causes of Erectile Dysfunction

The primary causes of erectile dysfunction are related to physical, psychological and

medications. Medication is the leading cause of ED, while reduced blood flow to the penis and nerve damage are the commonest physical causes.

Physical Causes may be as a result of:

Injury to the penis, the pelvis, spinal cord or the brain.

Diseases such as diabetes which causes high blood sugar levels resulting in nerve damage. Liver damage, kidney disease and arteriosclerosis cause also contribute to the effect of ED.

A venous leak will prevent the blood from staying in the arteries and the penis will not remain rigid.

Surgery

Surgery to the pelvic region, radical surgery of the prostate and bladder (due to cancer) which may result in nerve damage and affect the ability to maintain an erection.

Psychological Causes

Erectile dysfunction is due to psychological causes when a man gets a normal erection during sleep or on awakening early in the morning, but is unable to have a normal erection during lovemaking. 10% -20% of men with ED is due to any of the following psychological reasons.

Stress due to job, marital and/or economical problems.

Guilt

Indifference

Depression

Low self esteem

Encounters with sexual abusers during childhood.

Anxiety

Fear of sexual failure which can eventually lead to chronic erectile dysfunction.

Medicines

There are many prescribed and over the counter medications that can cause erectile dysfunction some of these are:

High blood pressure medications.

Tranquillizers

Antihistamines

Antidepressants

Anti inflammatory medications

Anti epileptic medications

Parkinson disease medications

Other Causes

Smoking

Alcohol abuse

Tiredness

Exhaustion

Obesity

Research also shows that marijuana, cocaine and opiates can cause erectile dysfunction.

Diagnosis

The following are ways to diagnose ED.

Medical history

Sexual history

Physical examination

Complete blood count (CBC)

Urinalysis

Liver and kidney function tests.

Erectile Function test.

Psychological interview with the patient and his partner to open dialogue and discussions

about dealing with the problem and the many approaches available in treating ED.

Treatment

Treatment of erectile dysfunction depends on the cause.

It includes life style changes, psychotherapy, hormone treatment, medications, vacuum devices and surgical implants.

Psychological counseling and sex therapy will be given for psychological causes.

This will help to reduces stress and tension and encourage sexual communication

between the partners. Sexual problem is a difficult topic to talk about. Sex therapy will encourage more touching and intimacy between the couple which may sometimes improves the problem.

Hormone treatment

If blood test reveals that the cause is due to low testosterone count, testosterone replacement therapy will be administered.

Medications

Medications like Viagra, Cialis and Levitral are effective in treating ED and should be used under a physician's care. These medications have all been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA.)

Vacuum devices and surgical implants of rod like devices are the other approaches to treating ED.

Life style changes includes:

Maintaining a healthy life style.

Stop smoking.

Discontinuing the use of alcohol.

Eating a healthy diet.

Reduction of weight.

Regular routine exercises.

Rest, relaxation and adequate sleep.

The good news is that erectile dysfunction is treatable at any age. Today, the medical, technological and pharmaceutical advancements and the continued research in this field is amazing. It has enhanced the joys, pleasures, the intimate moments and the overall relationships of couples who may encounter erectile dysfunction. Be sure to seek professional advice if you need it.

For more information visit:
www.diabetes.org
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