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Erectile dysfunction (impotence)
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Erectile dysfunction (impotence) Overview
Erectile dysfunction (ED), also known as impotence, is the inability to get and maintain an erection. Erectile dysfunction is a very common condition, particularly in older men. It is estimated that half of all men between the ages of 40 and 70 will have it to some degree.
Symptoms
Erectile dysfunction symptoms might include persistent trouble getting an erection, trouble keeping an erection, and reduced sexual desire
Causes
Erectile dysfunction can have a range of causes, both physical and psychological. Physical causes include narrowing of the blood vessels going to the penis – commonly associated with high blood pressure (hypertension), high cholesterol or diabetes, hormonal problems, surgery or injury.
Psychological causes of ED include anxiety, depression or relationship problems. Erectile dysfunction can also be a side-effect of using certain medicine.
Diagnosis
It's important to get a diagnosis so that the cause can be identified. Diagnosis involve answering questions about symptoms, as well as a physical examination and some simple tests.
Treatment
Erectile dysfunction is primarily treated by tackling the cause of the problem, whether this is physical or psychological. The narrowing of the arteries (called atherosclerosis) is one of the most common causes of ED. In these cases, lifestyle changes allowing to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease may help to relieve your symptoms as well as improving the general health. Medcation can also be given to treat atherosclerosis, such as cholesterol-lowering statins and drugs to reduce blood pressure
A number of treatments have been successful in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Medication, such as sildenafil (sold as Viagra), can be used to manage it in at least two-thirds of cases. Psychological treatments include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and sex therapy. Overall, treatments for erectile dysfunction have improved significantly in recent years.
Prevention
The best way to prevent erectile dysfunction is to make healthy lifestyle choices and to manage any existing health conditions. For example: Management of diabetes, heart disease or other chronic health conditions; regular checkups and medical screening tests; stop smoking, limit or avoid alcohol, and don't use illegal drugs; exercise regularly; reduce stress and get help for anxiety, depression or other mental health concerns.
Complications
Erectile dysfunction is a sexual health problem. It does not generally cause other, physical health problems. However, it may be a sign of potentially significant underlying conditions. Left untreated, these could have a substantial impact on health. Although it does not cause physical health problems, it can cause problems in relationships and psychological problems such as anxiety, depression, decreased self-esteem and stress.
Risks
Risk factors include smoking (increases the risk of hardening of the arteries and consequently reduces blood flow to the penis); overweight (extra pounds increases the risk of blood vessel disease, a cause of ED); inactive lifestyle; poorly managed diabetes; high cholesterol; alcohol; stress and anxiety.