Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to get and retain an erection for sexual intercourse. While it is common to have erection troubles every now and then, you need to see a doctor if the problem persists. To get a strong erection, you must feel relaxed, but there are several other factors that can affect your arousal. Learn more about ED in this detailed post.
Types of erectile dysfunction
If your blood vessels that are responsible for blood flow to the penis are affected, you have vascular ED, which is the most common type of erectile dysfunction. On the contrary, if the condition is related to problems of the central nervous system, it is called neurogenic erectile dysfunction, which can happen due to trauma or conditions, including a brain stroke. If ED is triggered by a deficiency of testosterone, it is known as hormonal ED. Psychological disorders can also cause ED.
Understanding the symptoms
If you are unable to get an erection when you are aroused or are interested in intercourse, you may have erectile dysfunction. Your doctor will do a physical exam and may recommend a few tests for diagnosis. If you are capable of getting an erection but cannot retain it long enough to have penetrative sex, it could be a sign of ED.
What are the causes of ED?
Your penis needs adequate blood flow for an erection, and if you have a health concern related to the circulatory system, you may have ED. Similarly, conditions that affect the nerves and brain may be responsible for the condition. Other known causes include hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, vascular disease, chronic kidney issues, Peyronie’s disease, and testosterone deficiency. Injuries to the penis or scrotum could be responsible for ED, too, including penile fracture. Certain prescription drugs are also known to cause ED, including anxiolytics, antidepressants, and antihistamines. Medications for Parkinson’s disease, Prostate cancer, and seizures can affect the ability to get erections. Psychological factors include genophobia, depression, and anxiety.
Other things to know
Obesity, age, and smoking are some of the risk factors for erectile dysfunction. If you think you have been having trouble with erections, talk to a urologist at the earliest. Early intervention can be beneficial in reversing the condition. Your doctor may initially suggest a wide range of lifestyle changes, following which they may consider medications and options like surgical penile implants.
The good news is most men with ED have treatment options to consider.
