What is Erectile Dysfunction?

Erectile Dysfunction is also known as impotence, is the inability to get and maintain an erection prior to and during sexual intercourse. It is a common condition and anyone can get it but it is more common in older men between the age of 40 and over.

Impotence also known as Erectile Dysfunction is the inability to develop and sustain an erection during sexual intercourse. Erectile Dysfunction occurs when a man has consistent and repeated problems developing and sustaining an erection. Without treatment, Erectile Dysfunction makes sexual intercourse difficult.

 

 

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What are the Risk Factors of Erectile Dysfunction?

    • Narrowing of the blood vessels going to the penis commonly associated with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes
    • Hormonal problems in men such as low testosterone
    • Clogged blood vessels
    • Peyronie’s disease- development of scar tissue inside the penis
    • Surgeries or injuries affecting the pelvic, spinal cord and testicular area
    • Smoking
    • Alcohol consumption
    • Cardiovascular disease
    • Diabetes
    • High Blood Pressure
    • High Cholesterol
    • Damage from cancer or surgery
    • Injuries
    • Obesity or being overweight
    • Older age
    • Stress
    • Anxiety
    • Relationship problems
    • Drug use
    • Sleep disorder
    • Low libido through reduced sexual drive

penis blood vessels diagramlow testosteronepeyronie's disease diagram


What are the Common Symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction? 

  • Erections that are too soft for sexual intercourse
  • Erections that are too brief for sexual intercourse
  • An inability to develop and sustain erections
  • Psychological such as anxiety and relationship problems, low self-esteem this is possible to develop at any age

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How is Erectile Dysfunction Diagnosed? 

  • GP will ask about your symptoms for Erectile Dysfunction and your overall health, lifestyle habits and sexual health
  • Sexual history
  • Your GP may test you on cardiovascular signs and may take blood pressure, measure cholesterol levels and possibly send you for a blood test


How can you Prevent Erectile Dysfunction?

    • Losing weight if you are overweight
    • Giving up smoking
    • Cutting down on alcohol consumption
    • Exercise regularly
    • Reduce stress

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What Treatments are available for Erectile Dysfunction?

    • If you suffer from heart disease or diabetes, this would need to be treated before any medication can be taken for Erectile Dysfunction.
    • CBT- helps to address mental issues affecting Erectile Dysfunction such as low self-esteem, relationship problems, stress, anxiety etc.
    • There are a range of different Erectile Dysfunction Treatments, for example, Viagra, Cialis.