WHAT IS ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION

Physical Causes of ED

• There is not enough blood flow into the penis. Many health issues can reduce blood flow, such as hardened arteries, heart disease, high blood sugar (Diabetes), and smoking.

• The penis cannot trap blood during an erection. If blood does not stay in the penis, a man cannot keep an erection. This issue can happen at any age.

• Nerve signals from the brain or spinal cord do not reach the penis. Certain diseases, injuries, or surgery in the pelvic area can harm nerves in the penis.

• Diabetes can cause small vessel disease or nerve damage to the penis.

• Cancer treatments near the pelvis can affect the penis' function. Surgery and radiation for lower abdomen or pelvis cancers can cause ED. Treating prostate, colon-rectal, or bladder cancer often leaves men with ED. Cancer survivors should see a Urologist for sexual health concerns.

• Drugs used to treat other health problems can negatively impact erections.

• Patients should talk about drug side effects with their primary care doctors.

Emotional Causes of ED

Regular sex needs the mind and body to work harmoniously. Emotional or relationship problems can cause or worsen a person's ED. Some emotional issues that can cause ED are:

• Depression

• Anxiety

• Relationship issues

• Stress at home or work

• Stress from social, cultural, or religious beliefs

• Worrying about sexual performance

ED medication works by enhancing the effects of nitric oxide, a natural chemical the body produces that relaxes muscles in the penis. Increasing blood flow allows a man to get and maintain an erection. Sexual stimulation is first required before taking the medication, which releases nitric oxide from the penile nerves. These medications boost the signal, allowing normal penile function to take effect.

The medications vary in dosage, how long they work, and their side effects. If side effects occur, they typically include flushing, nasal congestion, headache, visual changes, backache, and stomach upset. If you do not obtain an erection, contacting your physician is essential. Do not take more or increase your dosage without first speaking to your doctor. Your doctor will assess your situation to determine which medication will work best for you. These medications might not treat your erectile dysfunction immediately.

Before taking any medication for erectile dysfunction, including over-the-counter supplements and herbal therapies, get your doctor's approval. Medications for ED do not work for everyone and might be less effective in certain conditions, such as after prostate surgery or if you have diabetes. Some medications might also be dangerous if you:

• Take nitrate drugs — commonly prescribed for chest pain (angina) — such as nitroglycerin (Nitro-Dur, Nitrostat, others), isosorbide mononitrate (Monoket) and isosorbide dinitrate (Isordil, Bidil)

• Have heart disease or heart failure

• Have shallow blood pressure (hypotension)

Other Possible Approaches

In some cases, a specialist may discuss other options for ED management, such as certain medical procedures, devices, or hormone-based therapies. These approaches can have specific benefits, risks, and side effects and are generally considered when more conservative measures are not successful or appropriate. Decisions about these treatments should always be made in consultation with a qualified health-care professional who understands your full medical history.