What is erectile dysfunction?

Sexual arousal in males is a complicated process that involves the brain, various hormones, nerves, muscles, and blood vessels. Stress and mental health concerns can also cause or worsen the effects of erectile dysfunction.

When a man cannot achieve or sustain an erection to complete any sexual activity, he likely is suffering from ED, which affects roughly 50% of men aged 40 and over.

What are the reasons for erectile dysfunction?

Many men experience more than one potential cause when they are diagnosed with ED. But some of the possible reasons could be:

• Aging, due to changes in muscle and tissue within the penis
• Cardiovascular issues such as heart attacks, angina, or cardiovascular disease
• Diabetes mellitus, which affects the muscles in the penis and leads to erectile troubles
• Medications, including those for high blood pressure, antidepressants, or appetite suppressants.

Also, high blood pressure can cause trouble with erections related to atherosclerosis or from low levels of nitric oxide production from the arteries in the penis.

What treatments do most men use for ED?

Treatment options range from lifestyle changes to medication to surgery. The first step in determining your best treatment option is to speak with your doctor at length and find out what is causing the issue.

Medication therapy in the form of oral prescriptions is the most common way to boost the quality of a man's erection when he suffers from ED. Other options include:

• Priapus Shot (P Shot)Priapus Shot (P Shot)
• Penile self-injection therapy
• External vacuum pumps
• Medicated urethral system

Often, simple lifestyle changes — such as weight loss, drinking less alcohol, or quitting smoking — will lessen the effects of ED. Alternatively, if a medication is causing your ED, your doctor might lower your dose or try a different prescription.

In more severe cases, your doctor might suggest using a penile implant (prosthesis). This surgery improves blood flow and reduces blood leakage from the penis and surrounding structures.

If you think you might have erectile dysfunction, don't hesitate to call Vantage Medical Associates to schedule an appointment. You can also use the online scheduler to book an appointment.