Over 30 million men across the world are affected by this problem called ED or erectile dysfunction. A simple explanation for this would be, men not being able to maintain a firm erection during sexual activity. This is one of the most common problems faced by men.
There are instances when this is just momentary and men overcome this after some time. But if this is not the case and the issue is persistent, then it is time to seek medical attention. This issue may cause much mental pressure in men, and this again can become the cause of ED.
Let us first understand how erections work in men.
Whenever a man is sexually aroused, blood flows to the penis because of the release of chemicals from the nerves. There are spongy muscle tissues in the penis where the blood flows. During arousal, these spongy tissues relax and let the blood rush in. At this point, the pressure in the chambers of the penis makes it firm and causes an erection.
To release the erection and go back to the normal state, the nerves send a signal again. The muscular tissues then contract and blood is released. Then the penis becomes soft and normal again. This is exactly how it is supposed to function during erection. When this does not happen, it is a signal for an underlying issue.
What are the various causes of ED?
Going forward let us look at some of the physical and emotional factors that can be the reason for erectile dysfunction.
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Not enough blood flow
Due to other health issues, such as cardiac issues, diabetes, high blood pressure, hardened arteries, etc., the blood flow to the penis may not be adequate.
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Penis not able to trap blood
As mentioned above, during erection, the penis is supposed to trap blood. If the penis is not able to do this, then erection cannot happen.
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No nerve signal
Nerve signals are important. Any injury or surgery in the pelvic area may cause the inaction of nerve signals,which may result in dysfunction.
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Drugs for other diseases
The drugs a male consumes for other diseases may also interfere with the erection process.
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Age factor
Generally, men over 50 years of age may face this issue, but men from lower age groups can also be affected due to several other factors.
Apart from the above physical causes, many other emotional causes like depression, anxiety, excessive stress, relationship strains, etc. can also cause ED.
How to diagnose?
If you find that the issue is persistent, it is best to consult a physician to find the exact cause. Speak to your doctor about the symptoms you are facing. Your doctor may also want to know the following:
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How long have you been facing the issue?
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Do you have any disease, and are you taking any medicine for the same?
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Have you undergone any surgery?
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Do you have a smoking or drinking habit?
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Do you have urinary issues?
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Do you have a problem with erection at different stages?
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Whether your sex drive is normal?
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Do you have pain with erection?
Physical examinations, lab tests, and other tests will give a clear idea to your doctor about your condition to prescribe the treatment course.
Erectile dysfunction treatment may involve one or more of the following as per the observations of the doctor.
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Oral drugs called PDE type-5 inhibitors help to improve blood flow to the penis. When taken an hour before sexual intercourse, the erectile response will work fine for up to 30–60 minutes. The heart and nerve functions should be normal for this to happen, and medicines should be taken only after consultation with the doctor. Drugs like vidalista 10 and cenforce 200mg can also help in treating erectile dysfunction.
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Self-injection therapy, whereby Alprostadil, in the prescribed dose is injected on the sides of the penis. The doctor instructs how to inject and how much. This also increases the erection time, but if it lasts for more than 4 hours, you should seek immediate medical attention.
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Intraurethral therapy, where a pellet of the drug prescribed by the doctor is placed in the urethra.
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Testosterone therapy, where men with low sex drive, due to lack of the hormone, can get normal erections.
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When medicines do not work, surgical treatment may also be prescribed, which involves the insertion of a penile implant. This helps in keeping the penis firm during erection.
Generic medicines like kamagra 100mg oral jelly for erectile dysfunction are also available that can help in correcting erectile dysfunction in men. These can give good results. Always approach a qualified medical expert when you find your symptoms persistent and continue treatment under their guidance.