erectile dysfunction
‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍tualatin, OR

What is erectile dysfunction (ED)?

Erectile dysfunction is a sexual disorder in which a man finds it unable to get or keep an erection firm enough to have sexual intercourse. It is prevalent for men to have some problems with erection at times, but if this condition progresses and persists for a long time, it should be treated. Many men experience erectile dysfunction at times of stress. This can be a sign of severe health problems which has to be treated by a professional.

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How does an erection happen?

The increased flow of blood causes an erection into the penis. During sexual excitement, nerves release chemicals that help improve the blood flow into the penis. The blood runs through the penile arteries filling the two chambers of the penis made of spongy muscle tissue (the corpus cavernosum). As the chambers get filled with blood, the penis becomes stiff, and the erection ends when the muscles contract and the accumulated blood is released back into the circulation.

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What are the symptoms of erectile dysfunction?

Erectile Dysfunction (ED) involves trouble in getting an erection. There is difficulty in maintaining an erection during sexual activity and also diminished interest in sex. Other sexual disorders include premature ejaculation, delayed ejaculation, or inability to attain orgasm.

Erectile Dysfunction causes may include both physical and mental conditions. They have cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, high cholesterol and blockages in a man's vascular system, stress, and depression. It can also be due to alcohol consumption, smoking, or chewing tobacco. Research has shown that men suffering from ED are at a greater risk of suffering a heart attack, stroke, or circulatory problems in the legs.

How can Erectile Dysfunction be treated?

If ED is affecting a man's happiness or his relationship with his partner, it should be treated earliest. The treatment should aim to fix erectile function, help circulatory health, and improve a man's life quality.

The treatment begins with a consultation with the doctor, who may point out the risk factors that may cause erectile dysfunction. You may be asked to change your dietary habits, stop smoking, quit alcohol or drug consumption. Lead a healthy lifestyle and regular exercise.

Treatment can also include solving emotional problems arising from relationship conflicts, depression, or performance anxiety.

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What are the different types of treatments available to treat ED?

• Non-invasive treatments should be tried first as they work well and are safe. It is sensible to consult a physician to know about the side effects that result from each option.
• Oral drugs or pills are often prescribed to treat ED.
• Testosterone therapy may help fix normal erections, low sex drive, and low blood levels combined with ED drugs. It is a condition where low testosterone levels are detected in the blood.  
• Intra-cavernosal (ICI) and Urethra Therapies are approved for use in men. The drug alprostadil comes in two forms based on how it is used: intra-cavernosal injection (ICI) or through urethra (IU) therapy.
• Penile implants are surgically placed inside the body to make the penis rigid and let you have regular sex.
• A Vacuum Erection Device is a plastic tube that is slid over the penis, making a seal with the body's skin. A pump at the other end of the tube creates a low-pressure vacuum around the erectile tissue, which results in an erection. An elastic ring is then slipped onto the base of the penis. This holds the blood in the penis, keeping it hard for up to 30 minutes.

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