MEN’S HEALTH

Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile Dysfunction Definition:

Erectile dysfunction, or ‘ED’, is a medical term describing the inability to achieve or maintain an erect penis adequate for sexual function. This condition is one of the most common sexual problems for men. The likelihood of experiencing erectile dysfunction increases with age, and it affects an estimated 15 to 30 million American men. 3 out of 4 of these men are over the age  The effects of ED can range from minor to severe depending on individual cases.

Symptoms of ED

Male sexual dysfunction is made up of several problems associated with the sexual performance of a man, including:

  • Difficulty getting an erection
  • Difficulty keeping an erection
  • Reduced sexual desire
  • Peyronie’s disease, a curvature of the penis during an erection
  • Premature ejaculation, (release of semen before or shortly after penetration with minimal sexual stimulation occurring)

If you’ve experienced one or more of these symptoms, get in touch with your Urology Specialist. We’ll be happy to get you set up for our next available appointment. 

ED Causes

Erectile Dysfunction can stem from inhibition, stress, medication use or a medical condition Causes of ED include:

  • Psychological problems
  • Aging and a natural drop in hormonal activity
  • Stress
  • Certain prescription medications
  • Minor illness
  • Illegal drug use
  • Serious or chronic conditions

Treatment Options for ED

Erectile Dysfunction can be treated in a number of ways, depending on the specific case. Treatment options include:

  • Oral medication – Medications such as Viagra, Levitra, Staxyn, Adcirca, Cialis and Stendra all work well to enhance a natural chemical in the body called nitric oxide. This chemical allows proper blood flow, helping you achieve an erection more easily.
  • Intracavernosal injection – This medication is injected into the base of the penis to stimulate an erection when sexually aroused. 
  • Vacuum erection device – A tube is placed around the penis, and a hand-powered or battery-powered pump sucks the air out of the tube, causing a vacuum effect. This ‘vacuum’ allows blood flow into the penis, allowing for a proper erection.
  • Testopel – Testopel is a male sex hormone that works as a testosterone replacement therapy for men who suffer from moderate to severe erectile dysfunction.
  • Inflatable penile prosthesis – A surgical procedure that involves placing a reservoir and pump into the body as a type of penile reconstruction. This procedure is done when there is a clear medical reason for ED that is not likely to be resolved.  

Learn more about each of these treatment options from our 5 Common Treatment Options for Men with Erectile Dysfunction blog.