Understanding Erectile Dysfunction
One in every ten men is effected by ED.
Thankfully in most cases the problem is easily cured and one can continue to
lead a sexually active and satisfying life.
ED is defined as the ‘repeated inability to
get or keep an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse despite being
aroused.’ Keep in mind that the ‘occasional’ inability to achieve an erection
is not ED, the problem is significant only when it is a constant issue.
The causes of ED vary drastically.
Essentially it is a lack of adequate flow of blood into the penile area that
results in a weak erection. In normal circumstances, veins carry blood into the
spongy tissue of the penis and keep it blocked here until the man ejaculates.
Any obstruction in this flow of blood will result in ED.
While it is true that ED can strike almost
any man, there are certain categories that are more likely to fall prey to the
problem. A list of high risk ED groups follows –
• Age
– Those who have crossed the 65 year mark are highly susceptible to the
disease.
• Diabetes
– 80 % of men with diabetes fall prey to ED as opposed to 22% of men who do not
suffer from the ailment. However, it has been seen that ED can be controlled by
controlling diabetes.
• Genetics
– Those with a family history of ED are definitely more susceptible to falling
prey to the problem.
• Medical
problems – ED is very likely to occur in those who suffer from medical
issues such as heart diseases, high BP, obesity, nerve damage, injury to pelvic
area, prostrate surgery, substance abuse, etc. Alcohol and drug addiction are
also major causes of ED.
• Psychological
problems – Those who are prone to depression, stress, anxiety and other
such problems can fall prey to ED too. In fact, medication prescribed for these
problems is often known to affect the flow of blood to the penis.
• Low
testosterone level – Men who have low testosterone levels can suffer from
ED too. However, this is a rare possibility.
There are several signs of ED that can help
in diagnosing the problem. Loss of interest in sex, dropping frequency of sex,
frustration, lowered intimacy with partner, poor erection, premature
ejaculation and even an erection that does not sustain for long are all signs
of ED.
One can undertake a blood test or go
through an ultrasound when hoping to diagnose the problem. Infusion
cavernosometry&cavernosography where a dye is injected into the penis blood
vessel also helps in ascertaining the blood pressure in this area and thereby
diagnose ED. Nocturnal tumescence test helps in ensuring if there is a physical
cause for ED.
There are several treatments that can be
adopted in order to cure ED and one need not suffer with the problem
indefinitely. There are prescription drugs like Viagra Levitra and Cialis that
are said to be effective, though they do have their side effects. There are
surgical options and of course testosterone replacement therapy too. There is
the needle injection therapy where the synthetic hormone is injected into the
base of the penis and gives an instant erection that lasts for up to 60
minutes. There are penis pumps and penis exercises that are also promoted as ED
cures.