Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability for a man to gain or maintain an erection during sexual intercourse. This can also be referred to as impotence. ED occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the penis are constricted. It is caused by a chemical compound in the human body known as phosphodiesterase type 5 – PDE5. Without a proper flow of blood into the penis, it is difficult for an individual to have an erection when sexually stimulated. This medical condition is not uncommon, as a lot of men battle with it. According to UW Health, about five percent of men encounter complete erectile dysfunction at the age of 40. At 70 years, the number increases by 15 percent. 10 percent of men are affected each decade.

A lot of men experience ED as a result of stress; this could be stress at work, in their relationships, business, and many other areas. However, if this becomes persistent, then it’s high time you consulted your doctor as it is a sign of a health problem. You may also need to see a therapist if it is emotionally caused. With an increased flow of blood into your penis comes an erection. Direct contact with the penis or sexual thoughts can increase blood flow in the region. During sexual pleasure, the muscles in the penis become relaxed, allowing more blood to flow into the area through the penile size. As these chambers are filled with blood, the penis becomes rigid.

The muscles contract, allowing accumulated blood flow from the penile veins and bringing an end to an erection.

Causes Of Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction stems from various root causes that can be classified as either emotional or physical. Some of the causes of ED include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Diabetes
  • High cholesterol
  • High blood pressure, or hypertension
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Obesity
  • Kidney disease
  • Low testosterone or other hormonal imbalances
  • Peyronie’s disease; this creates scar tissues in the penis
  • The use of tobacco products
  • Excessive intake of alcohol
  • Parkinson’s disease
  • Multiple sclerosis (MS)
  • Drug abuse
  • Sleep disorders
  • Relationship issues
  • Over-the-counter (OTC) medicines that are used to treat depression or high blood pressure
  • Damage sustained on the pelvic area from surgery or injury
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Stress
  • Increase in age

Erectile dysfunction can be caused by either one of multiple factors. For this reason, you need to consult your doctor on any underlying medical issue to get treated successfully.

How Can I Treat Erectile Dysfunction (ED)?

The treatment of ED depends on the underlying health problem. There are several medicines that are safe and effective in treating this condition; you can actually get help with erectile dysfunction here. You need to see your doctor for a prescribed medication that will help you treat ED symptoms. The following include oral medications that can be taken to relax the muscles and increase blood flow through the penile arteries:

  • Vardenafil (Staxyn and Levitra)
  • Avanafil (Stendra)
  • Sildenafil (Viagra)
  • Tadalafil (Cialis)

Another medication that can be used to treat erectile dysfunction is Alprostadil (Edex, Caverject, and MUSE). You can administer this medicine in two ways:

  • Inject it at the side or base of the penis
  • It can be used as a penile suppository.

With the right treatment, you can cure erectile dysfunction.