You can’t turn on the television these days without seeing an advertisement concerning erectile dysfunction, also known as ED. In the past, this was considered a taboo and embarrassing subject. As a result, men often did not seek help, or even talk with anyone about the problem that was then known as impotence. It was a sensitive medical condition, thought to be caused by psychological issues, or as a result of aging.
But the trend is now changing, and more men are seeking help for this problem, which often has a physical cause. There are many remedies now, and it is important to discuss any symptoms you may be having with your doctor.
Exactly what is ED? It is defined as the inability to achieve and sustain an erection appropriate for sexual intercourse. A failure to achieve an erection, more than 50% of the time, is a condition that you should consider treatment options for, according to The National Institutes of Health.
There are many medical reasons why ED may occur. There may be underlying heart disease, such as hardening of the arteries, high blood pressure, or vascular disease. High cholesterol, kidney problems, and diabetes may also contribute to the condition. Some respiratory and systemic problems may also cause ED, or it could be a result of low male hormone levels. Other causes include nerve diseases, chronic illnesses, and certain medications. There may also be psychological components to the condition, such as depression, anxiety, or stress.
It is important to consult a doctor, in order to determine the source of the problem, and select the right treatment. You may need to be referred to a urologist, or other type of specialist.
Today, there are many treatment options for erectile dysfunction. Selective enzyme inhibitors may be prescribed, such as Viagra, Cialis, Levitra, and other medications. These prescriptions should always be monitored by a physician, because some of the side effects (for certain people) can be serious, and they may also interact with other medications. However, many men have experienced improved sexual performance almost immediately with these drugs, and the results are consistent. Other treatments include localized self-injections, urethral suppositories, vacuum devices, surgical procedures, and alternative treatments. Psychological counseling may also help.
There is no need to suffer in silence anymore, because many successful medical solutions are available for erectile dysfunction.