Erectile dysfunction can be a distressing problem that can impact many areas of life, including relationships and self-esteem. The good news is that there are several effective treatments available that can help fix or enhance erectile function.
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is one of the most common male sex problems reported, with as many as 30 million men experiencing the condition. Although it is more common in older men, it can affect men of all ages, and both physical and emotional factors can contribute to the condition. ED is characterized as trouble getting or maintaining an erection firm enough for sex. It may also cause a reduced sexual desire.
Recognizing Erectile Dysfunction
Most men experience difficulty achieving or keeping an erection from time to time, which may be triggered by a period of stress or illness. However, if ED is happening regularly or progressively, this is not normal and should be investigated further by a primary care doctor or urologist.
There are a number of important elements needed for sexual arousal. It begins with sensory and mental stimulation in the brain. The brain then sends messages via the nerves to release chemicals that increase blood flow into the penis. The circulatory system carries the blood to the penis, which gets trapped under high pressure by a series of valves, resulting in an erection. Once an erection has been established, a special membrane helps trap the blood in the penis, so that it remains firm for sex. As the muscles in the penis contract, the pressure decreases and the valves open, letting the blood out and causing the penis to lose its erection and become flaccid. If there is a problem during any of these stages, it may result in erectile dysfunction.
ED can result from a variety of physical or emotional factors, or a combination of the two. It can also be a warning sign of a serious health issue, such as cardiovascular disease, which can cause the blood supply to the penis to become narrowed or blocked. Other factors linked to ED include:
- Neurological disorders (which prevent the nerves from sending impulses to the penis)
- Psychological problems, such as stress, depression, or anxiety
- An injuryor surgery affecting the pelvic area or spinal cord
- Certain medications and medical treatments
- High cholesterol
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Peyronie’s disease
- Obesity
- Low testosterone
- Smoking
- Alcohol or drug use
If ED only occurs in certain situations, such as during sex with a certain partner, it is more likely to be a psychological issue.
Treatment for ED
To treat ED successfully, the underlying cause of the condition will need to be determined. Your health care provider will ask questions about your health history and lifestyle. They will carry out a physical examination and may order lab tests to try to establish the cause of the ED anddetermine the most suitable treatment.
If ED is related to an underlying condition, such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol, your doctor will focus on treating it, such as with medications and diet and lifestyle changes, to help improve symptoms of ED. If erectile dysfunction is related to an emotional issue, psychological counselling may also be recommended.
There are a range of effective treatments that are designed to treat and manage the symptoms of ED.Direct treatment will depend on factors such as your diagnosis and personal preferences. Treatments can include:
- Oral medications, known as phosphodiesterase type-5 (PDE5) inhibitors, such as Viagra, Levitra, Stendra, and Cialis. These medications increase blood flow to the penis by temporarily enhancing the effects of a naturally occurring chemical, known as nitric oxide, to relax the spongy muscle tissue in the penis. This allows more blood to flow into the penis during sexual arousal. Sexual stimulation is still required to trigger the release of nitric oxide to help achieve an erection.
- Testosterone replacement therapy may be recommended to help improve symptomsif the cause of ED is suspected to be related to low levels of testosterone. A deficiency of testosterone may also cause other symptoms such as fatigue, mood changes, infertility, memory problems, and physical changes, such as an increase in body fat and a reduction in body and facial hair.
- Penile injections, such as Alprostadil, which are specifically dosed medications that are injected directly into the side or base of the penis, to temporarily create an erection. An experienced healthcare provider will dose the medication based on the severity of the ED and explain how to administer the injection safely.
- External vacuum erection device (penis pump),a device with a hollow tube that fits over the penis, with a hand-powered or battery-powered pump at the other end of the device to create a low-pressure vacuum inside the tube. As the air is drawn out of the tube, blood is drawn into the penis, resulting in an erection. Once the penis is erect, an elasticated tension ring is worn at the base of the penis to keep it firm during sex.
- Surgical implant involves minimally invasive surgery to position a concealed inflatable device into each side of the penis, under the skin. The device allows you to control when you have an erection and for how long, as well as preserving sensation and the ability to have an orgasm. Treatment allows spontaneous sex and a higher degree of satisfaction than some other types of treatments.
- Penile vibratory stimulation to help treat ED related to spinal cord injury. A specialized vibration device is placed at the base of the glans penis (the rounded end of the penis), which is then set to a particular frequency and amplitude to mimic manual stimulation of the penis.This causes areas in the brain and the spinal cord to respond,triggering the nerve reflexes responsible for causing an erection. The device can also help induce ejaculation.
ED Treatmentin Phoenix, AZ
ED can be a warning sign for an underlying health condition. Ensure you get the high-quality care and treatment you need by seeing the experts at Ironwood Urology. We provide confidential and compassionate patient-focused men’s health care and treat a wide range of men’s health conditions, including erectile dysfunction, low testosterone, male infertility, penile prosthetic surgery, prostate health, and more.
To find out more or to schedule a consultation with our experienced urologist, call us today at (480) 961-2323, or request an appointment online.
