The majority of men at some point in their lives will experience a bout of erectile dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction (ED) or impotence refers to a condition whereby a male is unable to get an erection or cannot maintain it long enough to engage in copulation. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, an estimated 30 million American men are suffering from erectile dysfunction at any time. The most common symptoms of impotence can be stress, emotional troubles or drunkenness.
Age is an important risk factor for ED men become more susceptible to it as they age. The Institute believes that more than 50 percent of men above 75 years suffer from the condition, almost 17 percent of men in their 60s have ED, and four percent of men in their 50s have it.
However, ageing does not condemn a man to a later life of impotence, even though it might increase the inability of getting an erection. Studies have found that the ability of a man to perform sexually is a function of the quality of his health.
What is an Erection?
When a man becomes stimulated sexually, either through physical contact or from his thoughts, he becomes aroused. The arousal causes the spongy penile muscles to relax, and this increases the blood flow into the arteries of the two chambers of the penis known as corpora cavernosa. The influx of blood into the penis makes it rigid, and it remains so until the blood flows out and the muscles contract.
Causes of Erectile Dysfunction
Any disruptions to the flow of blood into the penis will lead to erectile dysfunction. Risk factors that can result in erectile dysfunction include:
- Alcohol
- Anxiety
- Cardiovascular disease
- Complications from cancer or surgery
- Diabetes
- Drug use
- Injuries
- Relationship or personal issues
- Smoking
- Stress
Erectile dysfunction can occur as a result of any one or combination of these risk factors, but it can be corrected with medications, but most symptoms require only simple changes in lifestyle to be treated.
Symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction
There are no symptoms of erectile dysfunction because it comes abruptly. A man will find out to his shock that he is unable to sustain an erection. What can be considered as the symptoms are the risk factors that predispose one to ED.
There are no clear cut signs for predicting ED, but if you suffer from or engage in any of the aforementioned risk factors, the chances of you getting ED is higher. Aging can also hurt your ability to have erections.
What to Do if You Suffer From Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction can be treated, and the type of treatment for ED is usually determined by the risk factor that led to it in the first instance. If the erectile dysfunction has not reached an advanced stage, the doctor may recommend some lifestyle modifications or counselling. However, surgery may be required in some severe cases.
Cancer and diabetes can increase the possibility of erectile dysfunction because these diseases can alter the blood flow pattern of the body. Appropriate treatments will be recommended when doctors check your medical history.
A lot of men perceive ED as an affront on their ego and are reluctant to share their challenge with others. Some search online for quick fixes but end up being duped of their money as most of the online solutions make claims that are not true. It’s better to seek out a professional who will examine the causes and proffer the appropriate solutions. These solutions are usually safer, more efficacious and cheaper than the fraudulent wonder pills many people try to buy online.
The Future of Erectile Dysfunction
In the future, the treatments of erectile dysfunction will likely be focused on highly efficient, rapid action drugs. Currently, the following five drugs have been approved for managing ED, and they are readily available:
- Cialis
- Levitra
- Staxyn
- Stendra
- Viagra
The latest treatments for erectile dysfunction include:
Gene Therapy
Gene therapy works on the concept of management and replacement of proteins that could prevent erectile dysfunction. It is designed to promote the synthesis of proteins that could help control ED. The technology has shown positive results in animal samples used in erectile dysfunction research.
Melanocortin
Melanocortin is a libido enhancing drug which stimulates the nervous system. Preliminary studies of the drug in animals produced erections, and other studies have indicated that the most efficient method of application is through the nose. It has been suggested to work best for men who have ED as a result of psychological and emotional problems.
Topigan
Topiglan is the cream version of the drug alprostadil which is used to treat erectile dysfunction in injection or suppository form. Topiglan is applied directly to the penis and is considered easier to use than alprostadil. The benefits of the drug to users are not yet verifiable.
Uprima
Uprima or Apomorphine works by stimulating dopamine, a hormone that promotes sensations and sexual interest. The drug has been reported to have side effects like vomiting and nausea, and some test subjects passed out after taking the drug. Before using Uprima, seek the advice of a doctor. The drug is a new entrant to the market and can be purchased online.
No matter the treatment approach used, it is important to remember that erectile dysfunction takes time to be fully corrected, and each case requires a unique treatment strategy.
Conclusion
Being honest is the most important step towards recovering from erectile dysfunction. A lot of men don’t feel masculine when they lose their ability for sexual intercourse. Men who are affected by it should summon the courage to share their challenge with their partner and doctors. This way they won’t get bogged down by the weight of what they are trying to handle themselves. To overcome erectile dysfunction, you might need to ask for some help.
