Overview
Erectile dysfunction is a common but treatable condition where men face trouble having or maintaining a firm erection. This article breaks down what erectile dysfunction is, why it happens, and the treatment options available to help.
What Is Erectile Dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is defined as a consistent inability to get and keep a firm erection long enough for sexual intercourse. It is probably the most common sexual problem experienced by men. Although occasional difficulties in erection are normal, consistent or prolonged erectile issues can be a cause of concern. If you or someone from your loved ones is facing progressive ED (erectile dysfunction), then it is a good idea to consult with a fertility specialist. It may be embarrassing, but know that erectile dysfunction is a treatable condition.
Erectile Dysfunction, also known as impotence, is a type of penile disorder that affects a person’s ability to achieve and maintain a firm enough erection for satisfactory sexual intercourse. It is not rare for men to experience occasional difficulties with erections from time to time, which is considered normal. However, if the Erectile Dysfunction persists or if the symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction keep worsening, it is high time to contact your doctor and seek advice to manage it.
Millions of men around the globe have experienced some form of erectile dysfunction. Although it can impact men of any age, older men after 40 are at a greater risk of Erectile Dysfunction.
Also Read : What causes low sperm count?
What are Cause of Erectile Dysfunction?
Male erectile function is a complex system that can be disrupted by several physical and psychological factors.
Blood Flow Problems
During erection, blood flows into the penis to make it erect. It is actually the blood pressure inside the penis that makes it firm. Thus, any problem in the circulatory system can cause Erectile Dysfunction. Blood flow problems like Atherosclerosis can cause clogging of the arteries and making it hard for an adequate amount of blood to reach the penis to make it erect.
Substance Abuse
Excessive consumption of alcohol, smoking, and using other illicit drugs can severely damage the nervous system and may also damage your blood vessels, sometimes leading to permanent erectile dysfunction.
Trauma or injury to the pelvic area
Injury to the penis or the surrounding area can also lead to Erectile Dysfunction. This includes a penile fracture, injuries to the pelvic bone, and treatment for prostate or bladder cancer.
Medication
Certain medications, such as antidepressants, may also cause temporary Erectile Dysfunction.
Psychological or emotional causes
Psychological or emotional factors also contribute to erectile dysfunction. Low self-esteem or anxiety about sexual performance may also lead to an inability to attain a full erection. Some people may have genophobia, an irrational fear of sexual intercourse, which prevents them from attaining an erection.
Note that these factors may overlap and not necessarily be caused by just 1 factor.
Symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction
Facing difficulties in erection once in a while is normal, but the symptoms of erectile dysfunction are ongoing and usually worsen over time. The symptoms of erectile dysfunction include:
- Trouble getting an erection before intercourse
- Requires a lot of stimulation to get and maintain an erection
- Being able to get an erection, but not being able to maintain it while having intercourse.
- Less desire to have sex or low libido
Treatment for erectile dysfunction
The treatment options for erectile dysfunction depend heavily on the cause of erectile dysfunction. Your doctor will help determine the best possible treatment for erectile dysfunction, depending on the severity of the condition and whether you have any underlying medical conditions causing it. The treatment options for erectile dysfunction may include:
Oral Medications
Oral medications are probably the most commonly used treatment for erectile dysfunction. The best-known of those oral medications is Viagra (sildenafil), but other options such as Tadalafil (Adcirca, Cialis), Vardenafil, and Avanafil (Stendra) are also used. These medications belong to a group of drugs called PDE-5 inhibitors, which help increase blood flow to your penis, making it easier to get an erection in response to stimulation.
Quitting smoking and other substance abuse
Individuals with mild cases of Erectile Dysfunction may get better after abstaining from smoking and drugs.
Cardiovascular exercise
Regular, intense cardiovascular exercise sessions may help improve blood circulation and reduce some symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction.
Self-injection therapy
For some severe cases, medication can be directly inserted into the base or side of the penis before sexual intercourse. Such injections are filled with various medications that cause an erection, which can last an hour max.
Surgical treatments
In rare cases, when all other erectile dysfunction treatment methods don’t work, the doctor may suggest surgery to place a penile implant. Some of these implants can be inflated to cause an erection.
There are many more treatment options available that can help you manage Erectile Dysfunction. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine which options work the best for you.
Also Read: What Is Normal Sperm Analysis?
How Erectile Dysfunction Affects Fertility?
Erectile dysfunction (ED) makes natural conception harder due to the inability to have or maintain an erection for intercourse. Although Erectile Dysfunction doesn’t directly cause infertility, it may also point towards some underlying health condition, which may negatively affect sperm production and quality.
Furthermore, Erectile Dysfunction causes psychological stress and anxiety, which further affects the desire for intimacy. Mental stress is also known to affect sperm quality, making conception even harder.
Conclusion
Erectile Dysfunction affects millions of men worldwide, negatively impacting their self-esteem, confidence levels, sexual life/relationships, and overall quality of life. It is somewhat of an embarrassing topic to discuss, which is why many are reluctant to talk with their doctor. It's helpful to understand that erectile dysfunction is a treatable condition.
In most cases, the doctors can effectively treat or manage Erectile dysfunction and the underlying problems causing Erectile Dysfunction. Therefore, if you have a persistent or progressive Erectile Dysfunction, contact your healthcare provider without delay
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there lifestyle changes that can improve Erectile Dysfunction?
Yes, mild cases of Erectile Dysfunction can get better with simple lifestyle improvements, such as maintaining a healthy body weight, cardiovascular exercises, and quitting smoking.
How do oral medications for Erectile Dysfunction work?
The oral medications used to treat Erectile Dysfunction are known as PDE-5 inhibitors, which help relax the muscles in the penis and improve blood flow in response to sexual stimulation, which helps in achieving a firm erection.
When should I consult a doctor for erectile dysfunction?
If the symptoms of erectile dysfunction are persistent and worsening, then it is better to consult with a doctor, as they can help you identify its cause and recommend the best treatment option for you.
What is the best exercise for erectile dysfunction?
Intense sessions of cardiovascular exercise may help reduce the effects of Erectile Dysfunction in men who have developed Erectile Dysfunction due to cardiovascular disease and obesity. Best exercises for erectile dysfunction may include brisk walking, jogging, jumping rope, and swimming.
What are the main reasons for erectile dysfunction?
Problems with the circulatory system are the leading cause of erectile dysfunction. An adequate amount of blood inside the penis is required to maintain a firm erection. If there are issues with blood pressure or blood flow into the penis, it may lead to erectile dysfunction.
Can masturbation cause Erectile Dysfunction?
No research suggests that there is a strong link between frequent masturbation and porn with Erectile dysfunction.