By Devin Kyle
Erectile Dysfunction (impotence) refers to the inability to have and maintain an erection strong enough for sexual intercourse. Having erectile dysfunction from time to time is not always a sign of a larger underlying problem. However, if erectile dysfunction continues for longer than is normal for you, then it may be an indication of a more serious condition. For instance, some medical conditions can affect a man’s ability to have an erection, such as diabetes, tumors, or circulation problems in the penis. These conditions often times cause a temporary surge of erection power that temporarily leaves men unable to sustain an erection. However, if erectile dysfunction continues for longer than is normal for you, then it may be a symptom of something else going on.
Depression and anxiety are common personal issues that can lead to erectile dysfunction. Being depressed or anxious can make it difficult to maintain an erection or maintain libido. Because of this, men who suffer from depression and/or anxiety are typically labeled as “insecure”. Men who are unable to experience a normal level of sexual arousal are considered to be suffering from “impotency”. Impotency is often times caused by problems with the nervous system, specifically due to decreased blood flow to the penis. When there is insufficient blood flow to the penis, it causes the nerves within the penis to send signals to the brain that penis is not aroused.
If you suspect that your erectile dysfunction may be caused by a physical condition then it is important that you see your doctor. A physical exam will help the doctor to rule out any type of physical problem such as: high blood pressure, heart problems, diabetes, tumors or enlarged veins in the penis. An ED clinic such as Prime Men’s Medical Center in Jacksonville may also recommend the use of anti-depressants or anti-anxiety medication. The use of medications such as these to treat your psychological issue will increase your chances of improving your condition and having successful results with the treatment of your erectile dysfunction. However, these treatments will only be effective if your emotional state is stabilized before they are taken.
Some other possible causes of erectile dysfunction include: nutritional deficiencies, excessive stress, side effects from certain medications, aging, hormonal changes due to medical conditions, and neurological disorders. In many cases, treating the symptoms of the underlying cause will eliminate or greatly reduce the symptoms of erectile dysfunction. Unfortunately, for the majority of men who do have psychological issues the only real solution is to take prescription male sexual enhancement medications.
If you are concerned that your symptoms are psychological in nature then you should first discuss the possibility of treating them with prescription medications. If your condition is a physical illness then your doctor will be able to prescribe the appropriate treatment medications. For psychological conditions your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes or counseling in order to deal with the root of the problem. In many cases, treating the symptoms alone will not be enough to solve the problem. Only by treating the underlying condition will you have a chance of resolving your issue with erectile dysfunction. Once you receive the proper treatment for your psychological condition your chances of having successful treatment of your erectile dysfunction will increase dramatically.
If you have been experiencing problems with your sex life because of your depression or anxiety then you should first visit your doctor. In some cases your doctor can prescribe medications for your ED problems. In other instances your doctor may recommend that you go on antidepressants or even switch to SSRIs. Switching to SSRIs such as fluoxetine, is often very helpful because it helps to regulate your brain chemistry. In some cases ED is caused by low serotonin levels in the brain. This condition is commonly called hypogonadism but sometimes referred to as premature ejaculation.
Some men are asymptomatic of erectile dysfunction as other men are, but it is always worth getting checked out just in case you are one of the unlucky ones. Erectile Dysfunction can lead to a host of problems if left untreated and the earlier you seek treatment the better. Here are some of the more common erectile dysfunction symptoms:
Chronic: Trouble achieving or maintaining an erection. Trouble maintaining an erection long enough for it to be pleasurable. Reduced sexual desire. The decreased sexual desire is caused by psychological factors such as anxiety and stress. There are also physiological reasons why a man fails to achieve and maintain an erection such as low testosterone levels.
The best way to treat erectile dysfunction is to consult a doctor who will perform a series of tests to rule out any underlying conditions causing it. If these are ruled out then the doctor will try to figure out the cause of the problem. It is important to remember that Erectile Dysfunction cannot be cured but it can be treated. To treat it, you will need to find treatments that will work for you depending on your individual situation.
Treatments for erectile dysfunction vary depending on what your underlying cause is. In some cases the cause is due to physical problems with the penis such as blood vessels and nerves not working properly. In these cases medical treatments will only include medication to improve circulation and strengthen the penile muscles. Erectile Dysfunction caused by psychological issues such as stress and depression will only require psychotherapy sessions with a therapist to treat. These sessions will help the person deal with their stressors, learn coping mechanisms for their stress, and how to relax and cope with stress.
Treatments for erectile dysfunction may include hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which includes testosterone and other hormones. These can help improve the circulation and encourage strong erections. In more severe cases where there are problems with blood vessels or nerves, surgery may be required. Some doctors will recommend drugs, such as Viagra, to help patients get erection. In more extreme cases, medication may be required along with an extensive exercise and diet plan.
Erectile Dysfunction is a big concern because it can lead to low self-esteem and relationship problems. It can also lead to erectile dysfunction when stress is a contributing factor. The good news is that many treatments for erectile dysfunction are available. Whether it is a physical condition that needs treating or it is a psychological issue that requires therapy, you can get help by talking to your doctor.
