Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects millions of men, making it difficult for them to engage in sexual intercourse. About 30 million men in the U.S. have faced persistent issues with getting or keeping an erection. While it’s more common in older men, younger men can experience it too. According to the American Urological Association, nearly half of men over 40 have dealt with some form of ED. The condition can have various physical and lifestyle causes, but luckily, there are numerous treatment options available.
### Symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction
ED, or erectile dysfunction, means you can’t achieve or maintain an erection for sexual activity. It’s normal to have occasional erection problems or a lack of sexual desire, but ED involves ongoing issues. If you’re experiencing ED, it’s a good idea to see a doctor for treatment and to rule out any hidden medical issues. Many causes of ED are physical and treatable, including conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, and vascular problems. Catching a medical problem early can help a man regain both general and sexual health.
### Causes of Erectile Dysfunction
ED has many potential causes, often requiring a precise diagnosis. Sometimes it’s a sign of another health issue. For instance, ED can be an early sign of heart disease, especially as men get older. Vascular problems, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle can contribute to ED at any age. Men with diabetes are twice as likely to experience ED because of nerve and artery damage. Neurological disorders like stroke and multiple sclerosis can also disrupt the signals between the brain and penis, leading to ED. Treatments for prostate cancer and surgeries for genital or urinary cancers can result in temporary or permanent ED due to nerve and tissue damage.
Other causes are not illness-related. Many common medications list ED as a side effect. Smoking damages blood vessels, making long-time smokers prone to ED. Drug and alcohol use can also limit blood flow. An enlarged prostate, often in older men, can interfere with erections, and low testosterone levels can cause issues too.
Psychological factors like stress, depression, and anxiety can also cause ED. Sometimes, physical and psychological causes are linked, and lifestyle changes can help. For instance, a man under a lot of job stress might also be on the brink of cardiovascular problems and skimping on sleep and exercise.
### Pharmaceutical Treatments for ED
The first step in treating ED is addressing any underlying medical problems like diabetes or high blood pressure. Sometimes, treating these conditions can lessen the likelihood of ED.
ED is often treated with oral medications like Cialis, Viagra, and Levitra, which improve blood flow to the penis. These drugs enhance the body’s production of nitric oxide, a substance that relaxes penis muscles and allows more blood flow. Each drug has different side effects and use guidelines, so finding the right one might take some time. Men with certain health issues or those taking other medications might not be able to use these drugs.
An alternative to oral medication is alprostadil, a prostaglandin that can widen blood vessels and increase blood flow. Alprostadil can be used by men who can’t take oral meds or need a direct application method. It’s either injected into the penis with a fine needle or placed as a suppository in the urethra. Both methods usually work within 10 minutes and can last up to an hour. Brands include Edex and Caverject Impulse for the injection, and MUSE for the suppository.
### Other Treatments for ED
Low testosterone levels can sometimes cause ED. Testosterone tends to drop as men age, and hormone replacement therapy can often solve the problem.
For some men, non-medical treatments are best. One option is a penis pump or vacuum erection device. You place your penis in a tube and use a pump to create a vacuum that draws blood into the penis. A tension ring at the base keeps it engorged for intercourse. Various models are available, so consult your doctor to choose the right one.
Another option is a penile implant, with rods surgically placed on each side of the penis. Inflatable implants use a pump to inflate with fluid for an erection, while malleable rod implants are semi-rigid and help achieve an erection. Since implants involve surgery, they are usually considered after other treatments have been exhausted.
If psychological issues are a major factor, psychotherapy can be the most effective treatment. Individual or couples therapy can help address issues like depression, anxiety, stress, and relationship problems.
Lifestyle changes can also make a big difference. Obesity, smoking, and excessive drinking are common contributors to ED. Regular exercise is one of the best things a man can do for his sex life. Getting help to quit smoking or deal with substance abuse can significantly improve overall health and sexual function.
Erectile dysfunction doesn’t have to be a part of aging or managing conditions like depression or diabetes. There are many treatments available to help men maintain a satisfying sex life.