Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is an underlying condition that affects sexual intimacy and pleasure. Fortunately, a variety of treatment options are available.
Medications
Medications can help many people with erectile dysfunction. They can be taken as pills or injections. A wide variety is available, from generic Viagra to prescription drugs designed to treat specific conditions such as vascular disease. These medications work by inhibiting an enzyme (PDE5) that normally breaks down erections. Some people may experience unpleasant side effects from these medications, including flushing or feeling suddenly warm, changes in vision, and upset stomach or heartburn. These side effects typically disappear after the medication leaves the body. Other ED Medicine Like:
The doctor will review the patient's medical history, examine the penis and testicles, and ask questions about a person's sexual problems. A physical exam can reveal nerve damage, blood flow problems or other underlying health issues that could be contributing to ED. A urine test and a blood pressure check are also often part of the evaluation. Depending on the cause, the doctor may recommend other tests or referral to a specialist.
Some prescription drugs can worsen erectile dysfunction, including thiazides used to treat high blood pressure and alpha blockers used to treat heart disease. Other medications that can contribute to ED include diuretics, anti-depressants and certain narcotics. The doctor might recommend lifestyle changes, such as losing weight and avoiding alcohol and illegal drugs. Treatment may also involve counseling to address emotional or psychological problems that could be contributing to ED, such as relationship conflicts, depression, or performance anxiety.
Devices
Although most men will experience erectile dysfunction at some point, if it becomes permanent or occurs regularly during sex, then it's important to talk to your doctor. If drug therapies and lifestyle changes aren't sufficient, a penis pump may be the solution you need to manage your symptoms.
These devices, also known as vacuum erection devices or VEDs, use suction to help you get and maintain an erection. While you can find novelty devices over the counter, a device prescribed by your urologist is safer. It's also important to know that a VED can cause bleeding or blood loss, so you should not use it if you have a bleeding disorder or are taking anticoagulants.
Another option to consider is a handheld penile vibrator, which can increase the levels of neurotransmitters that trigger an erection. Acoustic wave therapy can also promote a natural erection by enhancing the flow of blood into the penis.
If you are interested in a more long-term solution, you can ask your doctor about a penile implant. This procedure involves a minimal surgical procedure to insert a semi-rigid or inflatable rod into your penis. It can be more effective than medication and has a high patient satisfaction rate. However, it can also lead to a variety of side effects, such as nerve damage, penile shortening and curvature.
Surgery
A number of health problems can cause ED by reducing blood flow to the penis, causing it to lose its ability to form or maintain an erection. These include diseases, such as diabetes; disorders that cause damage to nerves in the pelvic area (like spinal cord injury or multiple sclerosis); and medications that affect hormones or blood circulation. These include many common drugs, such as pills for high blood pressure; antianxiety and depression medications; glaucoma eye drops; and chemotherapy agents used to treat cancer.
A surgery known as a circumferential penile artery repair can restore blood flow to the penis and help form or maintain an erection. Other surgical treatments for ED are the insertion of penile implants and the correction of curvature abnormalities of the penis, such as Peyronie's disease.
Psychological causes of ED may also be treated with counseling by a psychologist or counselor who specializes in sex therapy. This can help men deal with feelings of anxiety or fear that have an impact on sex and intimacy.
A physical exam usually starts with an examination of the genitals, including a spermatic cord exam. A rectal exam may be done if a man has a history of erectile dysfunction, to check the prostate for disease or injury. A complete medical history is also taken, and lab tests are ordered to check for certain types of ED.
Counseling
Men who are suffering from erectile dysfunction should be aware that the condition is treatable. Getting the right treatment and addressing any underlying issues is crucial to restoring sexual function and enhancing sex life.
While erectile dysfunction is primarily associated with physical causes (such as reduced blood flow to the penis), it can also be caused by psychological factors. A man who is capable of having an erection but is inhibited by psychological factors should seek counseling to help him deal with the issue.
Having regular sessions with a sex therapist can be beneficial for both partners who suffer from ED. Sex therapy is especially effective when both partners participate in the sessions, as research shows that this increases the chances of a positive outcome.
Other treatments that can be used to treat erectile dysfunction include weight loss programs, prescription medication and sexual education. Changing habits that can contribute to the condition, such as smoking and excessive alcohol or drug use, is important. Keeping up with routine health maintenance is also important, as many medical conditions can cause ED or worsen the symptoms of existing ones.
Erectile dysfunction is a common problem that affects millions of men. It is important to understand that while erectile dysfunction may seem frustrating, it is not a normal part of aging. If the condition is not treated, it can negatively impact a man's quality of life and his relationship with his partner.
