Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile Dysfunction (ED), formerly known as impotence, is a condition for males who have difficulty having or maintaining an erection at any point in time. ED varies from the total inability to have an erection, to an inconsistent ability to do so, to having brief erections. At times erectile dysfunction may be associated with being impotent but the word impotence is generalised and, in addition to ED, refers to other problems concerning ejaculation and production of normal sperm (as mentioned in Infertility).

ED is most common in men over 65 but can affect any male at any age. Although it becomes more common as you get older, it is not a natural part of aging. It is possible to categorize ED as two types: chronic ED and transient (temporary) ED. Transient ED prevails in as many as half the population of males while chronic ED is incident in about 5% of men in their 40s and around 15-25% of men 65 and older.

Causes of ED

Damage to nerves, arteries, smooth muscles, and fibrous tissues in or around the penis is the most common cause of erectile dysfunction. Causes may be related to arousal , the response of the nervous system, the response of the blood vessels, physiological problems (e.g. anxiety, stress, depression, guilt), negative feelings, nerve damage from diabetes, certain prescribed medications (e.g. appetite suppressants), multiple sclerosis, hormonal disorders, alcoholism and drug use.

Treatment Options

Erectile dysfunction is treatable at all ages. For some men, altering their diet, losing weight, exercising to stay in shape and dismissing unhealthy habits such as smoking and 'over-drinking'. If necessary other treatment options available include, but are not limited to: psychotherapy, drug therapy (e.g the use of inhibitors such as Levitra and Viagra), hormone replacement therapy (for those with testosterone deficiency), the use of vacuum devices, implantation, and surgery.