Everything You Need to Know About Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

What Is Erectile Dysfunction (ED)?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) happens when a man has continuing problems getting and keeping an erection. Without treatment, it can make sex difficult. The problem is stated by 1 in 5 men, and that number grows bigger with age.

Symptoms of ED

Symptoms of ED include:

• Erections that are don’t last long enough for sex.

• Erections that are too simple for sex.

• An inability to get an erection.

If you can't get or keep an erection that persists long enough or is rigid enough for sex, you have erectile dysfunction.

Who Gets ED?

ED and Sexual dysfunction become more common as you get older. Only about 5% of men age- 40 have it. But the number increases to 15% of men at age 70. This doesn’t mean getting older is the end of your sex life. Doctors can cure ED no matter your age. Age isn’t the only cause. Type 2 diabetes, Obesity, high blood pressure, and smoking all make it more likely.

The Mechanics of ED

You get an erection when blood supplies two chambers known as the corpora cavernosa. This causes your penis to expand and harden, much like a balloon, as it is loaded with water. Impulses from the genital nerves and brain start the process. Anything that prevents these impulses or limits blood flow to the penis can cause ED.

Causes of ED: 

1. Chronic Disease

The connection between chronic disease and ED is most remarkable for diabetes. Men with diabetes are 2-3 times more prone to have erectile dysfunction. And it could begin 10 to 15 years earlier. But blood sugar control can reduce this risk. In addition, any condition that affects the way blood flows through your body could cause ED. This includes atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, and multiple sclerosis.

2. Lifestyle

Lifestyle choices can contribute to Erectile dysfunction. For example, heavy drinking, smoking, and drug use disorder can harm the blood vessels and decrease blood flow to your penis. Being overweight and doing too little exercise also increase your odds. However, studies show that men who exercise daily have a lower risk of ED.

3. Medications

Erectile dysfunction may be a side effect of medication, including certain antidepressants and blood pressure drugs. Talk to your physician if you think a prescription or over-the-counter drug may be creating erectile problems. But never stop using any medicine before you discuss it with your physician.

4. Surgery

Surgery, including treatments for bladder cancer, prostate cancer, or BPH, can sometimes destroy nerves and blood vessels near your penis. If the nerve injury is permanent, you’ll need treatment to get an erection. But sometimes, surgery causes temporary ED that gets fine on its own after 6 - 18 months.

5. Psychological

If you’re older, there’s seemingly a physical reason for Erectile dysfunction. But the problems can be in your head, too. Experts say depression, stress, low self-esteem, and performance anxiety can short-circuit the process of an erection. Unfortunately, these factors can also make the problem worse if your ED arises from a physical problem.

Treatment of ED: 

1. Lifestyle Changes

You may be able to better your sex life with a few lifestyle changes. For example, losing weight, giving up smoking, and exercising more frequently can improve your blood flow. If you assume a medication could be to blame, talk to your doctor about changing the dosage or switching to another drug.

2. Oral Medications

You’ve probably heard of sildenafil, but it isn’t the only medicine for ED. This drug class also includes viagra and Cialis. All act by improving blood flow to the penis during arousal. They're usually taken 30 to 60 minutes before sexual activity and should not be used more than once a day. All need an OK from your doctor first for safety.