A variety of conditions can cause erectile dysfunction, which is when the penis fails to get or keep an erection during sexual activity. ED is often embarrassing, but it is important to seek help to make sure the condition hasn’t caused a serious underlying health problem.
Your doctor may prescribe sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Levitra) or vardenafil (Cialis) as pills to take before sex to increase blood flow.
Symptoms
Men who experience erectile dysfunction often find it difficult to get and keep an erection for sex. They may also have difficulty with penetration, or experiencing orgasm.
If you have erectile dysfunction, it is important to seek help. Getting professional advice and treatment can significantly improve your quality of life.
Your GP can diagnose erectile dysfunction by asking questions and carrying out some simple tests. They will ask about the frequency and duration of the problem, any pain or discomfort and whether you have had problems with penetration or ejaculation.
ED can be caused by either physical or psychological factors. For example, narrowing of the arteries (atherosclerosis) can cause ED, especially if you are overweight, smoke cigarettes and have high blood pressure or cholesterol. This can be prevented with lifestyle changes and medication. Alternatively, psychological treatments like cognitive behavioural therapy and sex counselling have been found to be very effective. These can be arranged through a health service or private therapists.
Diagnosis
It’s important to see a doctor about any problems with getting or keeping an erection. They’ll take a medical history and do a physical exam, including a look at the genitals. They may also order blood tests to check for diabetes and other health problems.
An erection is a complex process that involves interaction among many neurologic, hormonal and vascular systems. Therefore, it’s not always easy to pinpoint a cause in a given patient.
In general, a person’s ability to have an erection depends on the integrity of nerves that supply the penis with blood and communicate with the brain about blood flow to the area. Any neurological problem that affects these nerves, such as Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injury, can lead to ED. Also, any condition that decreases libido, such as undergoing chemical or surgical castration for prostate cancer or testosterone therapy for low testosterone levels, can make it harder to have an erection.
Treatment
A man’s ability to get and keep an erection depends on blood flow, nerves and hormones. Treatment options depend on the cause of ED.
For example, if depression is a factor, counseling and therapy can help. Emotional stress can affect blood flow, resulting in a loss of erections. Medications that affect a man’s blood flow or the actions of nerves and hormones can also make it hard to get an erection, such as drugs used for high blood pressure, diuretics and nitrates used for chest pain.
Some drugs, such as sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis) and vardenafil (Levitra), can improve erectile function. Other ED treatments include penile injections with medication, such as Cenforce 100, Cenforce 200 or drug combinations that increase blood flow. A semi-rigid penile prosthesis, called a vacuum pump device or Muse, is another option that can be used with a prescription. Surgical procedures to reestablish blood flow to the penis, such as penile implants and laser surgery, are also available.
Prevention
Occasional ED is not uncommon and may be related to emotional or relationship issues, as well as recent nutritional or exercise changes. Frequent ED, however, is not normal and may be a sign of underlying health problems that should be treated.
Men who have erectile dysfunction should talk to their doctor, especially if it occurs regularly or is getting worse. A physical exam and a review of the person’s health history can help determine the cause. A blood or urine test can check for diabetes, heart disease and other health conditions. Certain medications can also lead to erectile dysfunction, so doctors will want to know what you are taking.
Eating a healthy diet can help reduce the risk of erectile dysfunction. Exercising increases blood flow throughout the body, including to the penis. Aim for moderate to vigorous exercise at least 30 minutes a day. Avoid smoking or drinking alcohol, as these can make erectile dysfunction worse.
