Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to get or keep an
erection firm enough to have sexual intercourse. It is also sometimes also
referred to as impotence.
Occasional ED is not uncommon. Many men experience it during
times of stress. However, frequent ED can be a sign of health problems that
need treatment. It can also be a sign of emotional or relationship difficulties
that may need to be addressed by a professional.
Not all male sexual problems are caused by ED. Other types
of male sexual dysfunction include:
·
premature ejaculation
·
delayed or absent ejaculation
·
lack of interest in sex
How Common Is
Erectile Dysfunction?
Up to 30 million American men are affected by ED, according
to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
(NIDDK). The prevalence of ED increases with age. ED affects only four percent
of men in their 50s, but nearly 17 percent of men in their 60s. Furthermore,
almost half of all men over the age of 75 will suffer from ED.
Although the risk of ED increases with age, ED is not an
inevitable consequence of getting older. It may be more difficult to get an
erection as you age, but that does not necessarily you mean you will develop
ED. In general, the healthier a man is, the better his sexual function.
How Does a Man Get an
Erection?
An erection is the result of increased blood flow into the
penis. Blood flow is usually stimulated by either sexual thoughts or direct contact
with the penis.
When a man becomes sexually excited, muscles in the penis
relax. This relaxation allows for increased blood flow through the penile
arteries. This blood fills two chambers inside the penis called the corpora
cavernosa. As the chambers fill with blood, the penis grows rigid. Erection
ends when the muscles contract and the accumulated blood can flow out through
the penile veins.
ED can occur because of problems at any stage of the
erection process. For example, the penile arteries may be too damaged to open
properly and allow blood in.
The potential causes of ED are numerous. They include:
·
cardiovascular disease
·
diabetes
·
damage from cancer or surgery
·
injuries
·
stress
·
anxiety
·
relationship problems
·
drug use
·
alcohol use
·
smoking
These factors can work singly or in combination.
What Are the Symptoms
of Erectile Dysfunction?
ED is defined by an inability to get or sustain an erection
firm enough for sexual intercourse. It has no other symptoms.
What Is the Outlook
for Erectile Dysfunction?
ED is a treatable condition. There are a number of ED
treatments available. The type of treatment generally depends on the underlying
cause of ED.
Treatments for ED range from counselling and lifestyle
changes to drugs and surgery. If you suffer from ED, it is important to talk to
your doctor. A doctor can help identify the cause of your ED and figure out the
most appropriate treatment.
Because it can be embarrassing to discuss ED, many men look
for treatment options online. However, not all treatments are safe for all men.
You should not self-prescribe for ED. In addition, many of the treatments
available on the Internet are scams. They may not help your ED, and could
damage your health.
