Search Encyclopedia Erectile dysfunction (ED) or impotence means you can’t get an erection. It can also mean you aren't happy with the size or hardness of your erections, or how long your erections last. In the past, ED was thought to be due to psychological problems. It is now known that for most men ED is caused by physical problems.
These are most often related to the blood supply of the penis. There are different types and causes of ED. These are some of the most common: Premature ejaculation. This is the inability to keep an erection long enough for mutual pleasure due to climaxing too soon. Performance anxiety. This is most often caused by stress. Depression. Being depressed
can affect your ability to get an erection. Some antidepressants cause erection problems, too. Organic impotence. This involves the arteries or veins in the penis. It is the most common cause of ED, especially in older men. It can be related to hardening of the arteries throughout the body. Injury or a venous leak in the penis may also cause ED. Diabetes. ED is common in men with diabetes. It causes early and severe hardening of
the arteries. Problems with the nerves controlling erections are also often seen in men with diabetes. Nervous system causes. Several nervous system problems can lead to ED. For instance, multiple sclerosis, stroke, and spinal cord and nerve injuries. Nerve damage from pelvic surgeries can cause ED. Medicine-induced impotence. Blood pressure medicines, anti-anxiety and antidepressant medicines, glaucoma eye drops, and cancer
chemotherapy medicines are just some of the many medicines that can cause ED. Hormone-induced impotence. Hormone abnormalities can cause ED. These include increased prolactin, a hormone made by the pituitary gland. They also include steroid abuse by bodybuilders, too much or too little thyroid hormone, and hormones used to treat prostate cancer. In rare cases, low testosterone causes ED. Low testosterone. Low testosterone can be
linked to ED. Lifestyle choices. Smoking, excessive alcohol use, being overweight, and not exercising can also lead to ED. ED is a symptom that is linked to many health problems such as:
What are the symptoms of erectile dysfunction?The symptom of ED is not being able to get or keep an erection firm enough for sex. ED can mean that you can’t get an erection at all. Or it can mean you can’t get an erection consistently, or can only get brief erections. How is erectile dysfunction diagnosed?Diagnosis of ED may include:
How is erectile dysfunction treated?Treatment for ED is based on the cause of the problem. Some of the treatments that may be used include:
Living with erectile dysfunctionED can cause strain on a couple. Many times, men won't get into sexual situations because they are embarrassed. In turn, their partner may feel rejected or inadequate. It's important to talk openly with your partner. Some couples may get treatment for ED together. Other men prefer to get treatment without their partner's knowledge. Not talking about it is the main barrier to getting treatment. The loss of erectile function can have a profound effect on a man. The good news is that ED can often be treated safely and effectively. Feeling embarrassed about ED may prevent many men from getting the medical care they need. This can delay diagnosis and treatment of more serious underlying conditions. ED itself is often linked to an underlying problem such as heart disease, diabetes, liver disease, or other health conditions. Talk with your healthcare provider if you have problems with ED. Help is available. Key points about erectile dysfunction
Next stepsTips to help you get the most from a visit to your healthcare provider:
Medical Reviewers:
Is premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction curable?Premature ejaculation is a treatable condition. Medications, counseling and techniques that delay ejaculation can help improve sex for you and your partner.
How can I permanently cure premature ejaculation?Some medical treatments may help with premature ejaculation, but there is no permanent cure. However, males may learn to control their ejaculation and find more sexual satisfaction using various remedies, including supplements, topical solutions, and exercise.. calcium.. copper.. manganese.. selenium.. How can I overcome premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction naturally?People can take steps to boost their circulation, such as doing regular exercise, quitting smoking if applicable, and making dietary changes. A doctor may also recommend prescription ED drugs, such as sildenafil (Viagra).
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