What are the causes and treatment options for Erectile Dysfunction?

A man is said to have erectile dysfunction if he has difficulties in getting or maintaining a firm erection on a regular basis. As a result, his ability to engage in sexual activities is hampered.

With most men, there are occasions when they find it hard for their penis to get erect or stay firm. However, in case that happens too frequently or over a course of time, erectile dysfunction can be a matter of concern.

More commonly known as impotence, ED or erectile dysfunction interferes with the ability to have a satisfying sexual encounter for both the partners involved. For men, in particular, it can have an impact on their self-esteem. ED is actually a common occurrence among men. However, those who seek to treat it usually find relief to a certain extent.

Causes

You should consult a physician if you are facing erection issues on a consistentlyshe will be able to determine whether the issue is caused by a physical factor or a psychological factor.

1. Physical causes: At times, problems with erections can possibly be an indication of medical conditions. There might be some underlying medical issue that is causing the erection issues. You should get it diagnosed for resolving your sexual difficulties. Some of the most common organic or physical causes of erectile dysfunction include:

• narrowing of blood vessels
• heart disease
• high blood pressure
• diabetes
• high cholesterol
• metabolic syndrome and obesity
• multiple sclerosis
• Parkinson's disease
• hormonal disorders such as testosterone deficiency and thyroid conditions
• anatomical or structural disorder of the penis, like Peyronie disease
• substance abuse, alcoholism, and smoking
• prostate disease treatment
• surgical complications
• radiation therapy to the pelvic region
• injuries to the spinal cord or pelvic area

Erectile dysfunction is often caused when there is an issue with the flow of blood, and atherosclerosis is one of the most common causes of it. The condition can cause the arteries in the penis to clog or narrow down, thus preventing the flow of blood required for penis erection.

Certain prescription medications can also be a cause of erectile dysfunction.

These include:

• drugs for controlling high blood pressure
• heart medications like digoxin
• certain diuretics
• medications that have an effect on the central nervous system, including amphetamines and certain sleeping pills
• anxiety treatment and antidepressants
• some cancer medications such as chemotherapeutic agents
• opioid painkillers
• prostate treatment drugs
• hormone drugs
• anticholinergics
• the medication for peptic ulcer, cimetidine

If you are taking prescription drugs, you need to consult your doctor before changing or stopping your medication.

2. Psychological causes

Psychological causes are comparatively less common than physical causes, which are responsible for 90% of cases of erectile dysfunction. Sometimes, there is no obvious physical cause or anatomical deformity causing the issue. In such cases, it is usually the psychological factors that are preventing the man from achieving an erection. Some common psychological issues that could cause erectile dysfunction include:

• fear of intimacy
• severe anxiety
• depression
• guilt

These psychological factors range from mental health illnesses that can be treated to the emotional state of the individual that can be experienced at times.

It is worth noting that there is a possibility of both psychological and physical causes overlapping to result in erectile dysfunction. As an example, obesity can result in changes to blood flow, thus affecting the ability to maintain an erection. At the same time, a psychological factor like low self-esteem can also contribute to the erection problems of the concerned individual.

Treatment

Fortunately, there are ways to treat erectile dysfunction. A good place to start would be to quit poor lifestyle habits and choose healthier options. In most cases, healthcare professionals prescribe medications for treating the issue. Some common ED medications include:

• Viagra (sildenafil)
• Levitra and Staxyn (vardenafil)
• Cialis (tadalafil)
• Stendra (avanafil)

These medications work to increase the flow of blood to the muscles by smoothening muscles around it. As a result, there is enough blood flow when sexually stimulated, making it easier for the man to achieve an erection and maintain it.

If you have a heart condition and are taking nitrates for treating it, you shouldn’t take ED medications with it. Combining these medications can potentially cause your blood pressure to drop all of a sudden. Always consult your doctor before taking these medicines.