Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is the inability to attain and maintain an erection sufficient to experience satisfactory sex. Some men have erectile dysfunction due to physical conditions, including high blood pressure, a neurological disorder, or diabetes; some men have erectile dysfunction because of substance abuse (including alcohol, cocaine, marijuana, and methamphetamines); and some men have erectile dysfunction because of a psychological disorder called premature ejaculation. It can also result from the use of certain drugs, including Viagra and inhalants like inhalant nitrous oxide.
As previously mentioned, erectile dysfunction can result from physical conditions, such as high blood pressure, a neurological disorder, or a condition caused by stress and anxiety. For example, the use of alcohol can lead to temporary or long-term neurological problems, which may make erectile dysfunction more likely. The use of tobacco products and marijuana can also lead to long-term increases in stress and anxiety. In addition, anxiety can negatively impact sexual performance. Other common factors that increase the likelihood of erectile dysfunction include age (elderly people have been known to experience slower arousal and longer erections than younger people), obesity, poor health due to disease or aging, and low testosterone levels.
If you believe that you are experiencing some or all of these symptoms, you should visit your doctor immediately to rule out any serious physical conditions. Your doctor, or a ED specialist such as Proactive Men’s Medical Center, may recommend a physical exam first. During this exam, your doctor will probably ask you about your current medical treatment for erectile dysfunction. If you are taking medication to treat another condition or to lower your cholesterol levels, your doctor may recommend that you see a physician specializing in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Your physician will be able to run a series of tests and perform a physical exam to determine if your erections are functioning properly.
In many cases, erectile dysfunction is treated with medication and/or psychotherapy. However, these methods often take time, which deters many men from seeking treatment. Unfortunately, most men who suffer from ED are not willing to wait long periods of time for results.
Although these products have been proven to provide results, there are some men who believe that these products work well because they increase the amount of blood flowing to the penis, which causes erectile dysfunction. According to the Smoking Medicine database, all of the top 4-smoking medications contain ingredients that can have negative effects on blood pressure. In addition, many physicians are now recommending certain herbal medications, which are generally safe and do not cause erectile dysfunction. Many herbal medications are available online, but if you choose to shop over the internet, it is important that you only purchase from a trusted website.
If ED is caused by psychological factors, then treatments should include therapy, stress management techniques, and medication. In many cases, treatment options will involve psychotherapy and medication. If ED is caused by psychological factors, then therapy and stress management techniques should include mental exercises that help improve your self-esteem. If ED is caused by increased stress levels, then there are several ways to help reduce the stress levels in your life. It is important that you work closely with your physician in order to find the best treatment option for you.
Erectile Dysfunction (impotence) refers to the inability to have and maintain an erection strong enough for having sexual intercourse. Having erectile dysfunction from time to time is not always a signal of bigger underlying problem. However, if erectile dysfunction continues unabated, it can certainly impact your self-esteem and add stress to your relationships. Below are some signs that may indicate you need to see a doctor about your erectile dysfunction:
Physical Causes Certain physical causes can contribute to the issue of impotency. These include high blood pressure, cholesterol problems, high triglycerides, poor circulation, obesity, heart disease and diabetes. Other physical causes for impotency include smoking, age-related changes in bone density and muscle tone, and atherosclerosis. Smoking can significantly raise levels of testosterone.
Medical Conditions and Risk Factors – Certain medical conditions and risk factors can also contribute to the condition of erectile dysfunction. Two conditions with the most common links to decreased sexual performance and impotency are diabetes and heart disease. In men with diabetes, decreased levels of circulating glucose (sugar) in the blood stream can decrease blood flow to the penis. Blood flow to the penis is essential for successful sexual performance. A heart attack or stroke can also lead to decreased blood flow to the penis.
Nerve connections – Other causes of erectile dysfunction can be from decreased or lost nerve connections in the body. The condition is often referred to as “hypoarthritis.” Common examples of nerve problems that can cause erectile dysfunction are diabetic neuropathy and stroke. The condition affects the arteries that supply blood to the penis, causing the erection to stop or become less than satisfactory. A neurological disorder can be diagnosed by performing a neurological exam, which may reveal other conditions such as fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, or Parkinson’s disease.
Cardiovascular Disease – Erectile Dysfunction treatment for men who suffer from cardiovascular disease can be complicated. Many patients who have congestive heart disease are not given treatment for erectile dysfunction because they believe it will improve with no additional medical treatment. However, in many cases, patients with congestive heart disease can still experience ED. If you suffer from congestive heart disease, it is important to discuss ED with your doctor so that you receive the correct treatment.
Psychological Factors – Depression, anxiety, stress and fatigue are common psychological causes of erectile dysfunction. Older men are particularly susceptible to psychological causes, because older men already tend to be less physically active and stress can increase fatigue. Fortunately, many forms of erectile dysfunction can be treated with the right form of psychological treatment. Your health care provider can help you find the psychological factors that are triggering your ED.