Erectile Dysfunction Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Options?

Answer 1

Erectile dysfunction, also referred to as impotence, occurs when men are unable to obtain or keep an erection long enough for sexual encounters. While experiencing difficulty in obtaining and sustaining an erection from time to time is common among most men, erectile dysfunction is characterized as an ongoing sexual dysfunction. Along with the social implications, E.D. can cause serious strains on relationships and self-confidence.

Symptoms

The primary symptoms of erectile dysfunction is characterized as the inability to maintain an erect penis long enough to perform sexual intercourse. Along with erection difficulty a reduction in sexual desire, or lack of libido, is common among men who suffer from this dysfunction.

Causes

Sexual arousal in men is an intricate progression that involves hormones, blood vessels, muscles, emotions and nerve endings. Due to the multiple systems involved in sexual arousal, erectile dysfunction may be due to a variety of health and mental complications. Some of the more common physical ailments that contribute to E.D. include: high blood pressure, Diabetes, Heart disease, Parkinson's disease, atherosclerosis, tobacco use and abnormally low testosterone levels.

Although medical ailments can play a direct role in the development of erectile dysfunction, psychological complications can cause symptoms of E.D. to worsen. Mental ailments such as stress, fatigue, depression and anxiety can trigger or worsen erectile dysfunction.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing erectile dysfunction may be done through several methods, such as standard physical examinations and blood tests. Physicians may also perform an ultrasound on the penis to ensure it is receiving ample blood flow to support an erection. If physical problems are ruled out by the physician, an overnight erection test may be performed. This test involves wrapping specialized tape around the circumference of the penis, and if a nocturnal erection occurs the tape is separated. If an erection is achieved while sleeping, the causes of E.D. are likely due to psychological issues and not physical complications.

Treatment

Treating erectile dysfunction can vary depending on its cause. If the disorder is caused by an underlying health problem a physician will recommend treatments for the physical ailment. In conjunction with treatments for medical conditions, oral medications such as Viagra, Levitra or Cialis may be prescribed to enhance blood flow to the penis in order to obtain and sustain a firm erection. Psychological causes may be treated by undergoing therapy or taking anti-anxiety medications.

Erectile dysfunction may also be treated through herbal supplements, such as yohimbe. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, yohimbe has been used by African cultures to treat erectile dysfunction and increase sexual desire among men. Although no clinical trials are available to determine the effectiveness of this herb, natural proponents claim it is a useful tool to naturally increase the quality and duration of erections.