Erectile dysfunction is a medical condition when men face difficulties to get or sustain an erection which is needed for sexual intercourse. The nerve fires in the brain when you are turned on which causes blood to flow into the penis. This causes an erection that makes you ready for sex. However, if you have regular problems with erections, then you need treatment.
It is not a cause of worry if you do not get an erection once in a while, but if it happens regularly then you should seek medical help. Erection problems can affect relationships and lowers the self-esteem in men. However, if treated it can be cured through counselling and medication.
Erectile Dysfunction Causes
Erection problems can occur at any age, but it is most commonly noticed in older men who also have other health problems. The other reasons for erectile dysfunction are as follows: A physical injury which affects the nerves and leads to loss of blood supply to the penis – Diabetes, depression, high blood pressure and anxiety or other health problems Smoking and drinking too much alcohol Surgeries like prostate cancer. Some medications also have side effects and prevent erections. Low self-esteem and nervousness may also be the cause of erection problems in men of all ages.
Erectile Dysfunction Age
Age is a major factor that causes erectile dysfunction. As you age, you may take longer to get an erection and it may also not be as firm as it used to be in your younger years, but this does not necessarily lead to erection problems. It just increases the risk of having erectile dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction can affect men of all ages, especially those who smoke and take drugs that are more prone to erection problems.
Erectile Dysfunction Symptoms
The only symptom for erectile dysfunction is when a man is unable to get or sustain an erection to have sex. If the problem exists then one should meet a doctor who would carry out a physical examination and conduct lab tests to understand the cause of the problem. An urologist would do some tests like a blood test, ultrasound, urinalysis and a mental health exam to find out the cause of the problem. Having an erection problem does not curtail a man’s sexual desires or stop him from having an orgasm.
Erectile Dysfunction Treatment
The doctor would advise medicines and lifestyle changes to help with the problem. Surgery is not advised unless it is absolutely required.
Erection problems can be treated by:
- Limiting the consumption of alcohol and avoiding tobacco and drugs.
- Counselling and sensual exercises.
- If the problem is due to the side effect of any medicine then the doctor would advise a change in medicine.
- Prescription medicines that help in erection. Getting medicine shots in the penis.
- Penis pumps, blood vessel surgery and surgery to place an implant in the penis are options if no medication or lifestyle changes work.
A healthy lifestyle, proper diet and exercises can help in preventing erection problems. Erectile dysfunction is not uncommon. If you think you have one, it is best to take medical help and get it cured.