Erectile dysfunction, also commonly known as ED or impotence, is the inability to maintain an erection for sexual intercourse. Although, this conditon is not considered normal at any age there are about 5% of men between the ages of 40-65 who experience this condition on a daily basis. However, not being able to have an erection is no reason to panic. There are environmental factors that can cause this such as alcohol, or just being overly stressed and fatigued.
Causes and Symptoms
Erectile dysfunction, or ED, means not achieving or maintaining an erection at least 50% of the time. There are physical causes and psychological causes of impotence. The physical causes could be diabetes, obesity, low testosterone, and certain prescribed medications. Psychological causes of erectile dysfunction symptoms can be a number of things, including depression, stress, and fatigue--just to name a few. The process of male sexual arousal is complex in itself, with the process involving brain, muscles, hormones, blood vessels and emotions. Impotence can show up if there is a problem with any of these since they're all part of sexual health.
Treatment Options
After explaining the risks and benefits, your doctor can prescribe the correct treatment for you. It is very important that he or she knows the exact reasoning for why the impotence occured in the first place. Your doctor will also have to find out how severe the condition is, which also helps to prescribe the best treatment for you. If your erectile dysfunction is caused by stress or depression, your M.D may suggest that you talk to a professional to help you cope instead of just treating your symptoms.
It's important to keep a positive attitude during your treatment and stick to these three rules.
- Don't view the condition as "not being a man."
- Don't think that ED will happen every time you try and have sexual intercourse.
- Don't forget to involve your significant other
This condition, if ongoing, can ruin a man's self-esteem. Without good communication, it can even ruin marriages or relationships! If you think that you may have erectile dysfunction symptoms dont be afraid to consult with your MD, its better to know than not to know.
