Erectile Dysfunction

Understanding Erectile Dysfunction:Causes, Treatments.
What is erectile dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is Referred to  as the consistent inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual activity. This condition can affect men of all ages, though it becomes increasingly common with age. The key to distinguishing between occasional erection issues and chronic ED lies in the frequency and persistence of the problem.

Is Erectile Dysfunction Similar or related to Premature Ejaluation?

Erectile Dysfunction and Premature Ejaculation? If you have erectile dysfunction, you can't get or maintain an erection. If you have premature ejaculation, you have an erection, but you reach orgasm and ejaculate earlier than you or your partner would like.

Symptoms and diagnosis

The obvious symptom of ED is difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection. Other symptoms may include reduced sexual desire or libido. To be diagnosed, a physician typically look at patient history, perform a physical examination, and conduct medical tests.

• Patient history: A detailed conversation with a health care provider helps to identify the frequency and severity of the symptoms, as well as any underlying psychological or emotional factors.

• Physical examination: A thorough physical exam can reveal signs of underlying health conditions that may be contributing to ED. This can include assessment of the genital area, as well as evaluation of the heart and blood system.

• Medical tests: Blood and urine tests are often conducted to check for conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and low testosterone levels. Specialized tests, such as ultrasound or nocturnal penile tumescence (NPT) testing, might be used to assess blood flow and nerve function.

Differentiating between occasional and chronic ED

Temporary issues with erections can occur due to various factors such as stress, fatigue, or alcohol consumption. These instances are generally not a cause for concern. Chronic ED, however, is diagnosed when the problem persists over a significant period, typically for more than three months, and affects the man's ability to engage in satisfactory sexual activity consistently.

Causes of erectile dysfunction

The condition can arise from a variety of factors, both psychological and physical,while others can arise from Lifestyle contributing factors.

Psychological factors

Psychological issues play a significant role in many cases. High levels of stress or anxiety can interfere with the brain’s ability to send the necessary signals to trigger an erection. Depression can also diminish libido and sexual interest, leading to difficulties in achieving or maintaining an erection.

Many times, chronic ED can also be explained by worrying about sexual performance which can create a cycle of ongoing erectile issues.

Physical conditions

At times, physical conditions can cause ED, especially as patients get older and their chance for heart-related issues increases. While there are a variety of physical causes for ED, the two most common and likely are high-blood pressure and diabetes.

High blood Pressure (Hypertension)

High blood pressure can damage blood vessels, including those that supply blood to the penis. Over time, this damage can result in reduced blood flow, making it difficult to achieve or maintain an erection. Additionally, some medications used to treat hypertension can have side effects that contribute to ED. It's essential for men with high blood pressure to manage their condition through lifestyle changes and medications, and to discuss any sexual health concerns with their doctor to find the most suitable treatment options.

Diabetes

Diabetes, particularly when poorly controlled, is a leading cause of ED. High blood sugar levels can cause damage to nerves and blood vessels, including those that are important for achieving an erection. The risk of ED is significantly higher in men with diabetes, and the condition often manifests earlier than in men without diabetes.

Lifestyle factors

Lifestyle choices also play a significant role because they can lead to the aforementioned physical causes of ED.

• Smoking: Nicotine constricts blood vessels and can lead to vascular disease, reducing blood flow to the penis.

• Alcohol Consumption: Excessive drinking can impair the nervous system and reduce sexual responsiveness.

• Substance Abuse: Recreational drugs can damage blood vessels and nerves.

• Lack of Physical Activity: A sedentary lifestyle contributes to poor cardiovascular health.

• Poor Diet: Diets high in fat and sugar can lead to obesity and diabetes, increasing the risk of ED.

Treatment Options for Erectile Dysfunction

Treating erectile dysfunction (ED) requires a tailored approach that addresses the underlying causes and meets the specific needs of the patient. While the primary treatment option is medication, therapies and councelling, and surgical interventions can also help patients with more serious ED.

"The main treatment option is oral medications first. Behavioral therapy, diet, exercise—those things are easy to say but very hard to do, and patients get very discouraged. Most people nowadays are seeking a simple treatment option, and I don’t think there’s anything wrong with going to the pills right away if there are no contraindications.

Medications

The most commonly prescribed medications are phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, which include Sildenafil (Viagra), Tadalafil (Cialis), Vardenafil (Levitra), and Avanafil (Stendra). These medications work by increasing blood flow to the penis, helping to achieve and maintain an erection in response to sexual stimulation. Each has their positives and negatives, and a physician will help you decide which one is right for you.

Sildenafil (Viagra): Viagra is effective for about four to six hours and should be taken on an empty stomach about an hour before sexual activity. It is best suited for men who prefer spontaneity and do not plan their sexual activities far in advance.

Tadalafil (Cialis): Cialis offers a longer duration of action, lasting up to 36 hours, and can be taken with or without food. It is available in a daily dose, allowing for more spontaneous sexual activity, making it ideal for men who prefer not to plan around a medication.

Vardenafil (Levitra): Levitra is similar to Viagra but can be taken with food, although a high-fat meal may slow down its absorption. It is effective for about four to five hours.

Avanafil (Stendra): Stendra has a quick onset of action, working in as little as 15 minutes, and is effective for up to six hours. It is suitable for men who require a rapid response.

Moreover , Erectile dysfunction supplements and other natural remedies have long been used in various cultures. But they haven't been studied or tested nearly as much as prescription medicines for ED. These supplements have proved to increase Libido “sexual Desire”,which aim to improve patients with other underlying factors that limit a firm erection like Hypertension and Diabetes which range from
1.L.Arginine

2.Korean Ginsen
3.Horny Goat Weed Extract
4.Maca Root Extract

5.Tribulus

6.Nitric oxide containing supplements.

Final Thought

Sometimes Men with Erectile Dysfunction might experience Premature Ejaculation due to the inability to maintain penile erection ,however for ED ,The distinction is clear as the inability to have a firm Erection.

Sexual and reproductive health is a personal matter and each individual has the right to make decisions pertaining to their own health. When you need an expert opinion, feel free to pop in to one of our Pharmaplus Pharmacies for discreet and personalized one on one!