Erectile dysfunction (ED) can be a major source of frustration for sexually active couples. Also referred to as impotence, erectile dysfunction is the inability to achieve or maintain an erection or achieve one hard enough to make sexual intercourse satisfying, and it has the ability to take the spice out of an otherwise healthy relationship. It’s fairly common.
According to one study, during some time in their lives, half of all men between the ages of 40 to 70 will be affected by ED.
Causes of ED
Originally thought of as only a psychological problem caused by factors like depression, performance anxiety and other sexual disorders, it’s now known that, for most men, ED can be caused by diseases, disorders, and other factors, including:
- Diabetes mellitus
- Cardiovascular Disease
- Neurological diseases
- Hypertension
- Metabolic syndrome
- Hormonal causes
- Traumatic injuries (incl. spinal cord, pelvic fractures)
- Hyperlipidemia
- Stroke
- Sleep apnea
- COPD
- Glaucoma
- Multiple sclerosis
- Side-effect of priapism
- Depression
- A variety of medications, including antidepressants, antipsychotics, opioids, and recreational drugs.
- Enlarged prostate with lower urinary symptoms, along with treatments to treat an enlarged prostate.
As a result of not being able to perform sexually, ED can be distressing for couples. Fortunately, there have been transformative advancements in treatment.
Medications to treat ED
Nitric oxide relaxes the muscles of the penis, leading to increased blood flow in response to sexual stimulation. The four medications below enhance the effects of nitric oxide:
- Sildenafil (Viagra)
- Tadalafil (Adcirca, Cialis)
- Vardenafil (Levitra, Staxyn)
- Avanafil (Stendra)
Possible side effects include backaches, upset stomach, flushing, nasal congestion, headache, and changes in vision. ED medications don’t work for everyone. They may be less effective for those who’ve had prostate surgery or those with diabetes. We should also mention that some of the medications might also be dangerous if you have extremely low blood pressure, have heart disease or heart failure or take nitrate drugs commonly prescribed for chest pain. Other medications for erectile dysfunction include:
- Alprostadil. With one method, you inject alprostadil into the base or side of your penis. This can create an erection lasting no longer than an hour. Side effects can include mild bleeding from the injection, and prolonged erection, and in rare case, fibrous tissue at the injection site. A second alprostadil delivery method inserting the medication into the urethra using a special applicator. This method can cause an erection lasting between 30 minutes to an hour. Side effects can include a burning feeling in the penis, minor bleeding in the urethra and formation of fibrous tissue inside your penis.
- Testosterone replacement. Some people whose erectile dysfunction might be complicated by low levels of the testosterone might be recommended for hormone replacement therapy, along with other treatments.
- Neuromodulators: Applied via injection, neuromodulators can be an effective treatment of ED. Studies have shown that treatments with neuromodulators can improve erectile function, desire, and satisfaction.
More treatments for erectile dysfunction
- Vacuum pumps: These pumps draw blood into the cells of the penis, making it swell. A rubber ring is then slipped over the penis, preventing blood from leaving and preserving the penis’s rigidity. Although the pump can provide the right look temporarily, using them for too long can damage the elasticity of the tissue of the penis, leading to softer erections down the road. They also take practice to be used correctly.
- Penile implants: There are two types of implants: One is a semi-rigid rod that is always firm and can be bent into the position of an erection for sexual activity. The other is a surgically implanted device under the skin of the penis that can be inflated before sexual intercourse and deflated thereafter.
- Exercise: Regular exercise not only promotes physical health but also enhances stamina and endurance during sexual activity. Better overall fitness can improve blood flow to the entire body, enhancing firmness and duration of erections as well.
Topical creams and oral supplements, often containing vitamins, minerals, herbs, or hormones, are advertised with claims of curing ED. Yet, none of these items have been proven effective through scientific research, and certain ones may pose health risks. Supplements are not regulated by the FDA and there is no guarantee of exactly what you are actually ingesting with these products.
In conclusion, if you’re suffering from ED, realize that you’re not alone and there are plenty of treatments to choose from. Consult with your doctor about which treatment or treatments might be right for you.