Treatment Options for Erectile Dysfunction in Men
Erectile dysfunction is an inability to maintain an erection that can sustain satisfaction through sexual intercourse. Also known as impotence, with erectile dysfunction, the penis cannot perform suitably due to flaccidity or inconsistent rigidity. This issue seems to affect almost all men at least once in their lives. It is reported to affect as many as 30 million American men, with about 30% of those men falling between the ages of 40 and 70. Erectile dysfunction can devastate those that are affected by it, because of fear and embarrassment. For those and other reasons, treatment is often not sought out. On a good note, this issue is nearly always treatable. Impotence has well defined causes that are physical and/or psychological. Most men who seek help, find satisfying benefits of treatment.
An erection that is functional enough to withstand sexual intercourse, requires several parts of the body to work together. The brain, blood vessels, nerves, and certain hormones communicate to propagate sexual stimulation that is a result of stimuli and/or genital contact. Engorgement follows as a result of these systems communicating cooperatively to send chemical messages that cause high levels of stimulation in the brain. According to Johns Hopkins, in most cases, erectile dysfunction is a symptom or result of a medical condition or other physical problem.
Common physical causes and medical conditions associated with erectile dysfunction include:
Treatments for erectile dysfunction vary depending on the cause and other factors.
- vascular disorders
- neurological disease
- chronic illnesses
- hormonal problems
- pelvic or genital injuries (including those caused by surgery)
It is important to recognize that erectile dysfunction can be managed and is treatable when expert diagnosis and treatments are utilized. Disclosure of sexual function and medical history, and listing medications, as well as undergoing a physical examination, and appropriate laboratory tests are requirements for proper diagnosis. Appropriate treatment can be determined following diagnosis. There is a wide range of treatment options available as applicable to the cause of the dysfunction. Minimally invasive treatments may include oral medications or medications administered directly to the penis and sometimes a mechanical vacuum device is applied to the penis. More invasive treatments typically consist of implants or vascular surgery. Psychological treatment is another important treatment option to consider when managing erectile dysfunction. If a diagnosis suggests a psychological association leading to erectile dysfunction, recommendations for pursuing counseling with a qualified psychologist should be expected.
Treatment options vary in intensity and invasiveness and can consist of:
- Oral medications
- Intraurethral medications(penile suppositories)
- Sex therapy/counseling
- Vacuum constriction devices
- Hormone therapy
- Penile injection therapy
- Penile prosthesis
- Penile vascular surgery
Treatment is based upon diagnosis and can only be effective if the issue causing the erectile dysfunction is addressed and managed properly.
