Understanding Erectile Dysfunction - Causes and Solutions
ErectilernDysfunction (ED) can occur at any age. It's not a normal part of aging, but itrnis treatable.
EDrncan be caused by many medical problems, such as diabetes, aging, a heartrndisease, neurological problems like multiple sclerosis and peripheral neuropathy,rnand some medications, such as blood pressure drugs, antidepressants andrnglaucoma eye drops.
Causes
Erectilerndysfunction (ED) can be caused by a number of factors. It may be a symptom ofrnan underlying disease or a side effect of certain medications. Medications thatrnaffect hormones, nerves or blood flow can cause ED. Vidalista tablet include bloodrnpressure medication, narcotics and some cancer chemotherapy drugs. Psychiatricrnmedications, including antidepressants and sedatives, can also contribute tornED. Other medical causes of ED include vascular diseases, neurologicalrndisorders (such as multiple sclerosis), chronic pain conditions and low levelsrnof testosterone. Injuries and surgeries can also contribute to ED.
Manyrnpeople are embarrassed about talking to their doctors about sexual problems,rnand that can lead to a delay in diagnosis. This can allow a condition, such asrnheart disease, to progress before it is noticed. Often, the presence of arnserious disease is indicated by other symptoms, such as fatigue or a feeling ofrnfullness in the stomach.
Forrnsome people, a loss of ability to achieve and maintain an erection can lead torndepression. However, in most cases, this can be relieved by discussing thernsituation with a partner and seeking therapy. Some patients find that they arernable to experience satisfaction during sex, even without an erection. Vidalista 60 medicine mayrnenjoy cuddling, genital caressing and oral sex. In addition, identifying andrntreating an underlying minor physical problem often relieves the anxiety thatrncauses ED.
Symptoms
EDrnis the inability to attain and sustain an erection firm enough for sexualrnactivity. It affects 30 million men of all ages in the US. It can happen at anyrntime after puberty, but it gets more common each decade that passes. It canrninterfere with sexual desire and may cause problems with orgasm and ejaculationrn(climax). It can also lead to relationship stress and tension.
Mostrnpeople with ED are not embarrassed to talk about it, but it is important thatrnyou do so. It helps your doctor understand what is causing it, and how to treatrnit. Your doctor will likely ask you questions about your sexual history andrnhealth, as well as about medications and other factors that could be affectingrnyour ability to have an erection.
Yourrndoctor may also order a variety of blood tests, including ones to check yourrnheart and circulation. They may also do a physical exam of your genitals. Yourrndoctor may suggest a test that looks for erections at night by seeing ifrnpostage stamps applied around your penis snap off overnight.
Erectilerndysfunction can be a side effect of certain medications. These include drugsrnused to treat high blood pressure, heart disease and other conditions. Somerndrugs can also affect nerves, blood flow and the brain. In some cases, treatingrnthe underlying condition will also help to treat ED.
Diagnosis
Arnhealth care provider can diagnose erectile dysfunction (ED) by talking to thernperson about his sexual function and history. The health care professional mayrnalso take a physical exam and order lab tests. In some cases, the doctor willrnrefer the patient to a specialist, called a urologist.
Manyrnhealth conditions can interfere with the nerves, muscles and blood flow neededrnfor an erection. These include diabetes, high blood pressure, spinal cord injuriesrnand surgery to treat prostate or bladder problems. Certain medicines can alsorncause ED, including diuretics (pills that increase urine flow), drugs used torntreat high blood pressure and heart disease, and nitrates.
Emotionalrnor relationship problems can cause ED. A lack of communication in a couple canrnlead to emotional distress and an inability to have sex. It is important torntalk about these issues with a therapist or relationship counselor.
Mostrnpeople who have ED do not have a serious medical problem. However, therncondition can be a forewarning symptom of more serious heart disease or otherrnhealth problems. Often, the first treatment for ED is medicine that helps improve bloodrnflow to the penis. Some of these medicines are available over-the-counter andrnothers require a prescription. The most popular medicine is sildenafil, whichrnis sold as Viagra.
Treatment
Erectilerndysfunction is a common problem that can have serious consequences for yourrnrelationship and sexual satisfaction. It can also be a warning sign for otherrnhealth conditions, such as heart disease. Talking about sex problems with yourrndoctor is the first step to finding treatment. Your doctor will ask about yourrnsexual history and symptoms to learn if they are related to your desire forrnsex, erection function or ejaculation (orgasm). Your doctor may also orderrnblood tests or other lab work.
Arndoctor will also recommend lifestyle changes that can help you deal with ED.rnThese might include losing weight, quitting smoking, taking medications andrnexercising regularly. Some doctors suggest sex therapy or counseling,rnespecially in couples where the issue is caused by problems between partners.
Ifrnyou have a physical problem that causes ED, such as diabetes or high bloodrnpressure, treating it can improve your sex life. Similarly, if you take certainrnmedicines that can cause ED, such as nitrates for chest pain, your doctor mayrnprescribe a lower dose or switch to a different medicine.
Somernpeople choose to seek treatment for erectile dysfunction on their own or with arnpartner, but it is important to talk to your doctor about the problem. Even ifrnyou are embarrassed, talking to your doctor can help you get treatment and feelrnbetter about yourself.