Erectile Dysfunction
It is the inability of males to keep an erection going often. It is a prevalent issue and is estimated that it is affecting between 18-30 million males. It can have a major impact on our living quality. The majority of people are hesitant to speak about it with others, even to their doctors. This is why it's essential to talk about the issue publicly.
What is the mechanisms of Erectile dysfunction?
The penis is comprised of two chambers shaped like cylinders known as corpora cavernosa, which run across the penis. They are home to arteries that carry in blood flow to the penis as well as veins that take blood out of the penis. If there is a sexual stimulus whether physically or psychologically, our brain transmits a message to the nerves of the penis, causing contraction of the penile blood vessels. This boosts flow of blood to the penis, making it hard and stiff and achieving erection.There is also a contraction of the muscles that are specialized in the penis , which compresses the veins and decreases the flow of blood through the penis. This helps to keep the erection going.
It is now clear that anything that hinders the flow of nerve impulses from the brain to the penis, or anything that hinders flow of blood to the penis can cause erectile dysfunction.
The causes in Erectile Dysfunction
The majority of people view it to be a psychological issue. But this isn't the scenario. While psychological factors play a role in the cause of ED but we don't have a physical cause of ED.
Physical Conditions That Lead To the Development of
1. Vascular illnesses
We are aware that it is the increase in blood flow to the penis that aids us get an erection. So any vascular conditions that hinder flow of blood to the penis can hinder the ability to achieve erection. This includes atherosclerosis, high blood pressure , and elevated levels of cholesterol.
2. Diabetes
Patients with diabetes mellitus typically have erectile dysfunction by an age, especially in the absence of optimal sugar control. The erectile dysfunction caused by diabetes is due to the damage to blood vessels and nerves.
3. Neurologic Disorder
To have a good erection, we need the proper working of our nerves and the brain. That's why any disorder that hinders the functioning of the nerves or brain could cause an erectile dysfunction. These include disorders like Stroke Multiple Sclerosis, and Alzheimer's disease.
4. Lifestyle
There are certain habits that can raise the chance of developing erectile dysfunction. This includes smoking, drinking and using drugs. They are able to do this through hindering the blood supply to the penis.
5. Trauma
A trauma to blood vessels and nerves that supply the penis can cause Erectile dysfunction. Trauma as a reason for Erectile dysfunction has been proven by those who are cyclists for a longer time. This is due to the fact that bicycle seats exerts constant pressure on the nerves and vessels which supply the penis, creating damage and leading to Erectile dysfunction.
6. Medicines
Certain medications could cause Erectile dysfunction. These include drugs that are used to lower blood pressure as well as certain antidepressants. It is ironic that the fact that depression as well as high blood pressure can be two of the main causes of erectile dysfunction . The drugs that you take to treat these issues can create the condition. This is why it's essential to speak to your physician in the event that you are taking any medication and start experiencing issues with your erection.
7. Surgery
The majority of people over 50 years old suffer from issues with an erection. This is when patients also experience prostate enlargement or even prostate cancer. Patients require surgeries to treat these issues and during the surgery, the nerves that supply the penis could be damaged, leading to an erectile dysfunction.
Psychiatric Conditions That Cause ED
The brain plays a role in achieving an erection as well as the pleasure and excitement that comes with sexual activity, so any condition that hinders the brain function can lead to ED. Mental disorders account for about 10 to 15% of instances of ED. These include
* Stress
* Anxiety
* Depression
* Low-self esteem
How can I treat the Erectile Dysfunction?
1. Lifestyle shifts
Certain lifestyle changes that could aid in improving sexual health. These include quitting smoking, exercising and weight reduction.
2. Medicines
There is a well-known drug known as sildenafil(Fildena 100) that is also recognized as Viagra. This isn't the only medication, but there are a variety of drugs known as phosphodiestrase inhibitors. The other medications that are comprised in this group include Vardenafil ( Levita, Stxyn) Tadalafil (Cialis) and Avanafil (Stendra)
3. Vacuum Pumps
They are special devices that contain an cylinder and the pump. The penis is inserted into the cylinder and the pump uses it to pull air from the pump to create an circular cylinder. This boosts blood flow towards the penis. To maintain the erection, an elastic band is put on the penis's base.
4. Surgery
If the cause of erectile dysfunction is caused by blockage of the penis-supplying artery particularly in younger patients, we can perform surgery to restore the flow of blood. One of the other things we could perform surgically is to insert an implant into the penis. The implant is filled with the pressurized fluid at any time that it is necessary to erection.
