In the U.S., an estimated 20 million men suffer from erectile dysfunction, a condition affecting both males and females. The causes of ED are not fully understood, but many factors, including the nervous system, hormone levels, and blood flow, may contribute to the condition. Erectile dysfunction is also common among gay men, although researchers recommend more research on this issue. Here are a few ways you can get help for ED.
ED is the inability to achieve or maintain an erection for at least 30 seconds. The Massachusetts Male Aging Study surveyed 1,709 men aged 40 to 70 between 1987 and 1989 and determined a 52 percent prevalence of erectile dysfunction. The estimated number of men living with ED will reach 322 million by 2025. The guideline highlights the importance of a shared decision-making process and emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to treatment.
Treatment for ED varies based on the type of treatment and the cause of the problem. Surgical options are sometimes recommended by a urologist. Other methods include oral medications and injections. Some men need psychological therapy before undergoing invasive treatment. Sometimes, low levels of hormones are a major contributing factor in ED. Hormone replacement therapy is used only after a physician has confirmed that these conditions are the cause.
Despite the wide range of treatment options for ED, such as treating ED through acoustic wave or shockwave therapy for example, the principles underlying their use are the same in all men. The goal of treatment for ED is to restore sexual function, improve overall physical health, and optimize quality of life (QoL) for both the man and his partner. However, each man’s case is different. Consequently, each man brings a unique set of symptoms, associated health conditions, and other concerns to the clinical encounter. Ultimately, the best ED treatment should incorporate all of these considerations and be tailored to the man’s needs.
Besides dietary changes, there are also medications that treat ED. These medications are known as phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (PDE-5 inhibitors). They are used to treat erectile dysfunction by temporarily increasing blood flow to the penis. Vardenafil, avanafil, and sildenafil are three common PDE-5 inhibitors, and all three are effective in treating erectile dysfunction, but only for a limited period of time. However, they also have some side effects, including dizziness, headaches, and facial flushing. Injection therapy should only be used under the supervision of a medical professional.
Despite its widespread prevalence, erectile dysfunction is often a symptom of underlying health conditions. Often, it’s the result of a medical condition, including an injury or a prostate surgery. Regardless of the cause, it’s important to get help for ED as soon as possible. Treatment can improve circulatory health, as well as the quality of life. But, the first step is talking to your doctor.
Various methods of psychotherapy have helped men suffering from erectile dysfunction. One such approach is relationship therapy. Couples can engage in psychosexual counselling to discuss the issues associated with erectile dysfunction. Psychosexual counselling helps reduce anxiety and improve sex life. However, the results of psychosexual counselling have been mixed. In case you don’t feel comfortable discussing erectile dysfunction with your partner, psychosexual counselling may be the right option for you.
If you’re experiencing a lack of erections, it’s time to seek a medical diagnosis for ED. While there are many different types of ED, most medical doctors focus on one main cause: erectile dysfunction (ED). Treatment for ED can range from prescription medications to non-surgical procedures. In some cases, doctors will refer patients to a urologist for surgical treatments.
Some men are embarrassed to seek medical treatment for their sexual health problems because they fear embarrassing themselves. The truth is, this can delay the diagnosis of serious underlying conditions. However, erectile dysfunction is often the symptom of an underlying health problem, such as a progressive form of coronary disease. Because of this, doctors must be more upfront with their patients. Asking about sexual function during checkups can help detect serious underlying conditions sooner.
Men who take prescription medications are also susceptible to developing erectile dysfunction. Even if a man doesn’t experience erectile dysfunction every time, it is common to experience a few erection failures from time to time. Those who drink too much alcohol, are stressed, or are extremely tired may experience problems achieving an erection. While failing to achieve an erection at least 20% of the time isn’t uncommon, men who struggle more than 50% of the time should consider getting a medical diagnosis.
The aims of treatment for erectile dysfunction are the same for all men: to restore a man’s sexual function, improve his physical health, and enhance the quality of his life with his partner. However, each man’s presentation for ED is unique and his medical history and underlying medical conditions should inform clinical care. In addition, ED can affect the man’s mental health, relationship, and general well-being.
Although there are no known cures for erectile dysfunction, various medical conditions can cause the condition. These conditions include diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and heavy metal poisoning. Additionally, psychological factors such as trauma or chronic illness can result in erectile dysfunction. For men with chronic illnesses, surgery for prostate or bladder cancer can cause erectile dysfunction. If the symptoms persist, treatment must be individualized for each individual.
An examination of the penis can be helpful in diagnosing the cause of ED. Laboratory tests may include a urine analysis to identify whether the condition is caused by an underlying medical problem. Liver enzymes and blood sugar levels can be monitored to identify a broader range of possible causes. An ultrasound examination of the penis can also help doctors assess whether there is a problem with the endocrine system. Other testing may include a psychosocial evaluation that includes interviews with the sexual partner. Lifestyle changes like quitting smoking and cutting back on alcohol can also help.
Aside from dietary changes, erectile dysfunction can also be treated through medicine. Most commonly prescribed medications for erectile dysfunction are phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) inhibitors. These medications temporarily improve the blood flow to the penis. Vardenafil, avanafil, and sildenafil are all short-term solutions. Tadalafil can be an option if you are seeking a long-term solution.
