Erectile Dysfunction

June 21, 2008

Erectile dysfunction is a common condition and occurs when a man experiences difficulty getting or maintaining an erection. This may make it difficult and embarrassing to take part in sexual activities. It is estimated that 1 in 10 men in the UK alone with suffer from this condition at some point in their lives.

Causes of mild cases of erectile dysfunction can be stress, tiredness and drinking too much alcohol, and is usually only temporary. However if the conditions reoccur and starts interfering with normal sex life and relationships then sufferers should seek advice from their doctor.

Often men are too embarrassed to admit they have an erection problem and can find it difficult to seek help. It is important to treat cases of erectile dysfunction sensitively as often it can be caused by a psychological problem, which may get worse if the sufferer becomes even more embarrassed and distressed.

Physical factors can also cause erectile dysfunction. Erections work by allowing blood into the penis and stopping it from flowing back out again. Any factors that affect the veins, arteries or nerves that supply the penis can cause dysfunction.

Physical Factors that can cause erectile dysfunction:
· Medicines such as anti-depressants.
· Conditions that affect the nerves or blood supply, such as multiple sclerosis.
· Diabetes, which can affect the nervous system and blood supply.
· High cholesterol that can block arteries.
· Hormonal conditions, such as low testosterone levels.
· Prostate cancer and other conditions affecting the genitals.

Psychological can also contribute to erectile dysfunction, such as stress, depression and anxiety.

Initial treatments
The first step is to look at lifestyle and limit alcohol intake, smoking and medications where possible. Diet is also thought to contribute to erectile dysfunction, and so losing weight and getting more exercise is often advised. Stress and psychological problems will be looked at also, and advice will be given on how to combat stress, depression and general anxiety. Doctors may also want to rule out underlying conditions such as hormonal imbalance or diabetes, which can be discovered with a few simple tests.
If the problem persists then some further treatments can be prescribed:

· Vacuum or male enhancement devices, which use suction to draw blood into the penis to create and maintain erections.
· Sildenafil (known as Viagra), which can control erections.
· Apomorphine, which increases the levels of chemicals in the brain that send messages to the penis.
· Topical medicines that are rubbed into the penis to widen blood vessels and make erections easier.
· Hormone replacement treatments too boost low testosterone levels.

Better consult a venerologist

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