Erectile dysfunction affects a large number of men across the world.
Do not hesitate in discussing the condition with a doctor as there are convenient options available that can effectively treat your erection problems and help you lead a normal sexual life.
About erectile dysfunction Erectile dysfunction (impotence) is a sexual dysfunction that affects all men at some point in their sexual life.
The condition refers to an inability of a man to get and maintain erection long enough to complete sexual intercourse.
An occasional episode of impotence is not deemed as a problem but if it happens on a frequent basis men must take the condition seriously and visit a doctor.
Impotence is more commonly reported by men in their 60s, not that it's related to ageing process only, but because elderly men are more likely to suffer from conditions that may lead to erection problems.
Though impotence is not a life-threatening condition, it does affect the quality of life.
Men suffer from low self-esteem because of their inability to satisfy their partner.
Besides, their relationship is also affected because of a lack of intimacy.
Medical specialists sincerely advise patients to discuss impotence, as it may be a manifestation of an underlying condition such as diabetes, heart diseases or high cholesterol that may warrant immediate attention.
Erectile dysfunction causes An erection is a complex process involving the brain, hormones, emotions, nerves, muscles and blood vessels.
If something disturbs the harmony of various processes leading to erection and the required flow of blood into penis is affected, men may suffer from impotence.
The flow of blood to the penis may be affected to due to physiological or psychological factors.
However, in the majority of cases physical factors are the chief cause of impotence in a man.
While, in young men the cause is mostly psychological in nature.
Some of the commonly reported physical causes of erectile dysfunction include: oHigh blood pressure oHigh cholesterol oDiabetes oHardening of the arteries (arteriosclerosis) oSurgeries or injuries that affect the pelvic area or spinal cord oKidney disorders oAnomalies of the penis oHormonal problems oNeurologic disorders oNerve damage from prostate surgery oSmoking oAlcoholism and drug abuse oSide effects of prescribed drugs Commonly reported psychological causes of erectile dysfunction include: oStress and anxiety from work or home oPerformance pressure oProblems within your relationship oUnrealistic sexual expectations oPoor communication with your partner oDepression oFatigue oSexual boredom oUnresolved sexual orientation oGuilt (in the case of infidelity) How to diagnose erectile dysfunction? If you face erection problems quire regularly, you must discuss this with your doctor.
You must talk about your problem in detail without hesitation.
Impotence is a common problem and your doctor is used to discussing the subject.
To form a diagnosis for the condition, your doctor will ask you relevant questions pertaining to your sexual life and will conduct a physical examination.
Your doctor may also request laboratory test of your blood and urine to diagnose the cause of erection problems.
Once the doctor confirms impotence, he/she may suggest relevant treatment options such as oral erectile dysfunction treatment medicines such as Viagra, Cialis or Levitra or use of vacuum pumps or penile injection to help you achieve firm and prolonged erection.