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Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile Dysfunction

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Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is a man’s consistent inability to get or maintain an erection.

This condition is not considered normal and is different from other problems that interfere with sexual intercourse, such as lack of sexual desire and problems with ejaculation and orgasm. Frequent erectile dysfunction can cause emotional and relationship problems and often leads to diminished self-esteem. Erectile dysfunction has many causes, most of which are treatable, and is not an inevitable consequence of aging.

Erectile Dysfunction (ED) as mentioned is a fairly common disease. In fact, 3 in 10 men 18 years of age and older will experience ED at some point in his life. It is well known that the risk of developing ED increases with age, but it is possible for men of all ages to experience ED. It is important to know that it is not unusual to occasionally have difficulty with achieving or maintaining an erection, however, if you are having trouble more than 50 percent of the time, that isn’t normal, and you should be evaluated to determine why you are having difficulty and what treatment, if needed, will be best for you.

Common causes of erectile dysfunction include:

  • Heart disease
  • Obesity
  • Diabetes
  • Low testosterone
  • Certain medications
  • High cholesterol
  • Neurological problems
  • Alcohol and tobacco use
  • Sleep disorders
  • Depression/Stress
  • Pelvic Surgery
  • Injury to the Pelvis or Back

Those causes sound familiar? Oftentimes, the earliest symptom of heart disease, hypertension, or diabetes is ED. It has been reported in multiple studies that nearly 70% of men over the age of 45 who have been seen for heart disease had suffered from ED 1-3 years prior to their heart disease symptoms.

If you suspect you may have erectile dysfunction, see your doctor. Evaluating the cause of ED is simple and essential to providing the most effective treatment. ED evaluations include answering simple questions, undergoing a physical examination, lab testing, and in some cases, specialized imaging.

Treatment for erectile dysfunction depends on the cause of the problem. If the problem is due to psychological issues, counseling is usually appropriate. Oftentimes, counseling is coupled with medication. Medication may be used to treat erectile dysfunction caused by vascular, hormonal, neurological or psychological problems.

Treatment options for ED include oral medications (pills), injectable medications (shots), vacuum erection devices (VED), and surgery (implants). In some cases, improved management of the underlying cause of your ED can enhance your response to treatment, improve your overall symptoms, and in some cases, even eliminate your ED symptoms.

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