Erectile Dysfunction Information & Health
Erectile Dysfunction also more commonly termed impotence is the inability to achieve or sustain a penile erection. This basic definition does not fully explain the degree and variations that can occur within the condition.
Nearly every male will experience some form of erectile dysfunction on their life. Sometimes this will simply be a ‘one off’ or irregular occurrence and not worthy of labelling a condition Whether the cause of erectile dysfunction is due to excess alcohol consumption, anxiety about sexual performance or work, or for any other reason, the inability to sustain an erection doesn’t by itself require medical attention.
Erectile dysfunction medicine in general has made significant advances in the past few decades. Firstly the most commonly known drug Viagra was made available in 1998. Secondly advancements in penile implants have made them safer and provided hop to sufferers worldwide. In general progress in terms of a cure for erectile dysfunction has come along way indeed.
Erectile dysfunction treatment will only be required if the problem persists and is interfering in the everyday lifestyle of the sufferer. An erectile dysfunction drug such as Viagra or Cialis will often form part of this treatment for erectile dysfunction. Sex is a healthy and normal part of life but there are periods in a man’s life when sustaining an erection becomes less important.
When erectile dysfunction becomes a problem, there are usually varying degrees. Dues to the physiology of the penis and erection may be fully erect, partly erect or limp. Sometimes for the penis to be partly erect may be sufficient to satisfy the man alone or him and his sexual partner.
To elaborate on the physiology of the penis:
The penis is quite similar to a series of concentric tubes or cylinders, filled with small chambers and other tubes. The penis has one major cylinder called the corpora cavernosa. Spongy tissues line this cylinder. The spongy tissue is made up of smooth muscle fibres, blood vessels (veins and arteries) and bodily fluids.
Under normal circumstances, stimulation causes several times the resting amount of blood to flow into the penis. The blood moves to fill the space and enlarge the surrounding muscles. This resulting fluid pressure causes the penis to lengthen and stiffen, and the result is an erection
Erectile Dysfunction Symptoms – How To Diagnose
On one hand there is no need to diagnose erectile dysfunction at all. In terms of erectile dysfunction symptoms therefore it is impossible to miss. For this reason, it’s the underlying cause of erectile dysfunction that is diagnosed, not the symptoms themselves. Whether it is simply a short lived issue- as in impotence or a more long term issue as in erectile dysfunction is for your physician to decide.
There are arrays of tests and methods which exist to handle both situations.
The ability of a male to achieve an erection depends on a number of interconnected factors. There is firstly arousal- both physically and mentally. A lack of either aspect can result in erectile dysfunction. For this reason, physicians diagnosing erectile dysfunction symptoms will often focus on both.
The physical factors that interfere with normal erection are diverse and often complex. Diagnostic tests will therefore look for such things as cardiovascular and neurological problems. A common issue is damage to the blood vessels which feed the pelvis. Furthermore there can be a weakness in nerve signals. Also Endocrine tests to check hormone levels are normal, is a common diagnostic procedure for erectile dysfunction symptoms.
Cavernosometry is a frequently employed test, as it measures penile vascular pressure. During an erection, about seven times the usual amount of blood flows into the spongy tissue in the penis. Anything which interferes with that process can lead to obvious erectile dysfunction symptoms. During a cavernosometry, dye is injected to trace the problem in the blood vessels.
Neurological tests can cover a wide range of potential issues and erectile dysfunction symptoms. Much less commonly, spinal cord injuries or brain tumors can interfere with normal erectile function. In this case, insensitivity in the nerves more directly related to the genitals is checked for. Furthermore, trauma, certain drugs or medications, may be the underlying cause of the erectile dysfunction symptoms.
As there are a substantial number of diseases, some quite common that can result in erectile dysfunction, physicians will test for these if the patient displays other symptoms. Diabetes is becoming more common, as the national obesity rates increase- this is a common cause of erectile dysfunction. Simple blood sugar tests can diagnose diabetes.
In certain cases the physician may overlook various tests as the outcome and treatment for erectile dysfunction will be the same.
Take an example of a man that has had prostate cancer surgery, and subsequently shortly thereafter complains of erectile dysfunction. Some doctors would simply skip the normal erectile dysfunction tests. Another example could be a person revealing a history of drug use or chronic high alcohol consumption. In this case there would be no need for the physician to search for other possible causes of the erectile dysfunction symptoms.
Basically, when the treatment for erectile dysfunction is the same, it is a waste of time to pursue with tests that will result in the same diagnosis of the erectile dysfunction symptoms.
Cause of Erectile Dysfunction – Physical Aspects
When trying to determine the cause of your erectile dysfunction, there will often be underlying physical conditions that more than likely have contributed in some way. Some are obvious such as occasional excessive alcohol consumption. In many cases, though, it’s the result of long term diseases, such as diabetes or Parkinson’s.
Not only can it be difficult to determine the cause of erectile dysfunction, it can often be confused with impotence. Impotence is essentially short-term erectile dysfunction and is common in all post pubescent human males.
A common cause of erectile dysfunction results from urological surgeries, such as bladder surgery or removal of a prostate tumour. In cases of certain spinal injuries and/or surgery, the nerves which are required to provide stimulation to the penis can become damaged. Such an injury can have permanent side effects- however isolating this cause of erectile dysfunction is quite obvious for a physician.
A wide variety of non-surgical procedures can produce temporary impotence, and in a small percentage of cases, can be a cause of erectile dysfunction. An example of this is radiation therapy for the treatment of testicular cancer,
Unfortunately, a large amount of diseases can be a cause of erectile dysfunction. Hypogonadism, a condition in which the testes do not produce enough testosterone, is one. Multiple sclerosis is another physical cause of erectile dysfunction. There’s also an extremely rare, but hardly unknown, condition called Peyronie’s disease that can be a cause of erectile dysfunction. It produces scar tissue under the penis, resulting in a curve in the penis. If the scar tissue is ample, it can result in cell rigidity that prevents the spongy tissue in the penis from filling up with blood as is the normal case of an erection.
Diabetes is perhaps the most common cause of erectile dysfunction, especially as the disease is on the increase among younger population demographics. Diabetes alters hormone balance, can produce long-term nerve damage, injure blood vessels and much more. All of these symptoms can be a cause of erectile dysfunction
Fortunately, erectile dysfunction is largely treatable and the symptoms manageable over time. Diabetes, for example, has many fewer long-term debilitating effects today, than in the past due to improved management techniques. The erectile dysfunction that sometimes accompanies diabetes can often be completely cured.
Since there are a variety of medical conditions that result in high blood pressure, there are an equal number of conditions that can be a cause of erectile dysfunction. High blood pressure over time does long term nerve damage. This will eventually lead to erectile dysfunction. Furthermore high blood pressure increases the odds of stroke, another possible cause of erectile dysfunction.
There are so many effective erectile dysfunction treatment options currently available, it need no longer be a mystery. Starting with a professional diagnosis, such treatments are frequently the first step in curing the cause of erectile dysfunction.
Erectile Dysfunction Treatment – Which One To Choose?
There are various erectile dysfunction treatment options currently available. Prescribed drugs, vacuum pumps or penile implants are all common treatment options. To determine what is the best treatment for your erectile dysfunction, is the job of a qualified physician.
Viagra is perhaps the most well known erectile dysfunction drug and treatment option. Viagra was approved in 1998 by the FDA, and is one of a class of PDE-5 inhibitors that includes Cialis and Levitra.
Each pill works in slightly different ways and carries a different dosage recommendation. However, in essence, the function of all of these drugs is to enhance blood flow to the penis.
As you may know the corpora cavernosa is a cylinder of spongy tissue containing smooth muscles, arteries and veins located in the penis. During stimulation of the penis, nerve signals generate the release of hormones that produce nitric oxide. That has the immediate effect of relaxing the muscles, resulting in blood flow to the tissue leading to stiffening and elongation of the penis.
There are various conditions which can inhibit blood flow, however Viagra and these other major drugs all rely on focussing on this physical cause. These erectile dysfunction drugs have been used my million’s of men worldwide with little side effects and promising results.
There are also drug options which require injection. This may seem a slightly more aggressive form of erectile dysfunction treatment- however it is not as invasive as you may think. Needle injection therapy, for example, works by injecting alprostadil (prostaglandin) into the penis. The needle used is very sharp and narrow in diameter, and therefore causes little discomfort. Other drugs applied via needle injection include: papaverine hydrochloride and phentolamine. As they are injected the response time is quicker, however there are know side effects.
Another alternate erectile dysfunction treatment delivery is commonly known as (MUSE – Medicated Urethral Suppository for Erection) In this treatment a small pellet of alprostadil, is inserted up the urethra through the small hole in the penis. This method however can produce an excessively long or hard erection. Furthermore it may also cause pain to the penis or testicles.
There are also various non drug erectile dysfunction treatments available and these may actually be more appropriate for certain patients. Vacuum pumps, for example, are available that fit over the penis and stimulate blood flow. This method is older and has been the target of much humour over the years; however put simply it does work and produces results.
Surgery or Penile Implants are a more extreme measure in terms of erectile dysfunction treatment, but are most certainly called for in certain instances. There are essentially two basic types of penile implant: malleable and inflatable.
Malleable implants use a pair of rods that are surgically inserted into the corpora cavernosa of the penis
Inflatable implants consist of a tube implanted inside the penis along with a second pump that injects fluid directly into the container. The sac is typically implanted in the lower abdomen, and the pump is placed in the scrotum. This method allows the user to extend and stiffen the penis mechanically.
In a certain cases there are external causes which need to be addressed in order to treat the erectile dysfunction. For example, blood vessel damage from diabetes may prevent an erection. One counter-measure is to re-work the arteries and/or veins directly, in order to revive normal and constant blood flow in and out of the penis.
It is completely up to the individual and their degree of condition as to which erectile dysfunction treatment will ultimately be most successful. In some cases, basic changes to the diet and more frequent exercise are sufficient to restore the ability to achieve and sustain erection. One should always consult their physician in order to decide on the most suitable erectile dysfunction treatment.
Erectile Dysfunction Drug – Viagra, Cialis Or Levitra?
When one mentions the term erectile dysfunction drug, there are 3 names which spring to mind: Viagra, Cialis and Levitra. All work in a similar function, but there are differences apart from simply coming from different manufacturers of erectile dysfunction drug.
Viagra
Viagra is the commercial brand name for sildenafil citrate, manufactured by Pfizer. Approved in 1998 by the FDA for the treatment of erectile dysfunction, it has been used safely and with good results by millions of men since. This erectile dysfunction drug is taken in tablet form.
Erections occur when stimulation results in nerve signals releasing hormones that cause the smooth muscle tissue in the penis to relax and fill with blood. Viagra enhances this natural process when there is some condition preventing it from occurring naturally. There is a chemical which naturally allows blood to flow out of the penis- Viagra essentially blocks this. An increase in blood retention results in a stiffer, harder penis- which is obviously what this erectile dysfunction drug is most well known for.
Recent clinical erectile dysfunction medicine studies show that nearly 90% of those using Viagra properly report improved ability to consistently achieve and sustain erection. For the majority, Viagra begins working in about thirty minutes, and may continue to be effective for up to 4 hours. Taking into consideration that the average sexual encounter lasts thirty minutes, this allows for complete satisfaction for the majority of user’s of this erectile dysfunction drug.
Cialis
Produced by the Eli Lilly Company, Cialis is the commercial brand name for the erectile dysfunction drug tadalafil. Cialis works in a way similar to Viagra, but the dosage is quite varied. Typical prescribed dosages will vary from patient to patient, with most taking either 5 mg, 10 mg or 20 mg. In contrast the average Viagra dosages are much higher – 25 mg, 50mg or even 100mg.
Like Viagra, Cialis works in about thirty minutes, but the effects may last as long as 36 hours. Clinical studies show that this erectile dysfunction drug is effective for about 78% of those who try it. In other words those who chose Cialis are trading off effectiveness for longer lasting effects.
Levitra
Levitra is manufactured by Bayer Pharmaceuticals and is commercially distributed by GlaxoSmithKline and Schering-Plough. Levitra is a brand name for the erectile dysfunction drug vardenafil. As is the case with Viagra and Cialis, Levitra works by reducing blood flow out of the penis. Studies show this erectile dysfunction drug to be approximately 80% effective. Effects should set in within 1 hour. As is the case with Viagra, Levitra works for approximately four hours.
Erectile Dysfunction Medicine – The Side Effects
When one mentions the term erectile dysfunction drug, there are 3 names which spring to mind: Viagra, Cialis and Levitra. All work in a similar function, but there are differences apart from simply coming from different manufacturers of erectile dysfunction drug.
The study of side effects of erectile dysfunction medicine is a branch in itself. Normally we associate side effects with drugs- Viagra, Cialis or Levitra, however there are other aspects of erectile dysfunction medicine- such as implants which can have significant side effects as well.
The complete list of possible side effects from any of the three major erectile dysfunction drugs – Viagra, Cialis or Levitra – could easily fill several pages. The majority of side effects pertain to drug interactions. For example, men taking nitroglycerine-type heart medications are warned to avoid such erectile dysfunction drugs. The good news if you can avoid such interactions, you will not suffer from any significant side effects in finding your unique cure for erectile dysfunction.
Allergic reactions to erectile dysfunction medicine can be a concern. One has to weigh up the effects of the reaction versus the quality the erectile dysfunction medicine brings to the sex life. An allergic reaction is usually a sign the immune system has gone into overdrive- it will be worth a visit to your doctor to be sure.
About 16% of men get headaches from taking Viagra. Indigestion is present in about seven percent. Nasal congestion is known to affect 4% of users. Furthermore urinary tract infections have been reported, by about 3% of those who take Viagra. Less common is diarrhoea. Similar numbers and symptoms are reported for both Cialis and Levitra.
The numbers above are all relevant to the person taking the erectile dysfunction medicine. Some sufferer’s may not report the symptoms, some will exaggerate the symptoms. Furthermore many men will have underlying conditions which cause the side effect- so these an not be taken as seriously.
In extremely rare cases, a condition called NAION (Non-Arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy) can occur. This involves a sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes. Anyone who suffers such an incident as a result from taking erectile dysfunction medicine should see their doctor immediately. Sometimes diabetes can contribute to such neurological side effects.
Side effects can occur in other treatments for erectile dysfunction:
Penile implants, while relatively safe these days to come with certain risks. Like any surgery, allergic reaction to the anaesthetic is possible. Furthermore the implant may result in scarring, which may require the removal of the implant. More than 85% of men with penile implants have no need to have them removed.
There are also mental aspects to consider in terms of side effects of erectile dysfunction medicine. For example, a counsellor may recommend the wrong action to the sufferer- changing jobs for example. This may result in negative psychological effects.
As with any form of treatment there are certainly side effects to erectile dysfunction medicine. As 80% – 90% of men experience satisfaction with their treatment, it is safe to say you will more than likely experience the same.
Progress In Cure For Erectile Dysfunction
Before the 1990s, a cure for erectile dysfunction was not really in existence. There were ideas and concepts, but no real proof. Advances in pharmacology and technology, along with improved surgical materials and techniques, have changed the playing field and opened up new avenues and possibilities for sufferers of erectile dysfunction.
Currently its estimated that anywhere from 10-20% of men in the U.S. are thought to suffer from some form of erectile dysfunction. Specifically this represents those males that have been unable to achieve or sustain erection for a period of two months or longer. Of course due to the personal nature of the subject matter- it is only representative of those males who own up- many would keep it to themselves, of course. For this reason finding a cure for erectile dysfunction or treatment for erectile dysfunction has become a hot topic in recent years.
So in the US currently with a population of 300 million, roughly 117 million males are over age 14. Even at a conservative figure of 10%, that’s nearly 12 million sufferer’s looking for a cure for erectile dysfunction. The likelihood of erectile dysfunction goes up with age, so it’s fair to conclude in the smaller group of males (those 65 years and older) the incidence will be higher.
Whatever the figures there are no doubts that millions have benefited from Viagra, Cialis or Levitra since the approval of the first by the FDA in 1998. Furthermore other sufferers have found a cure for erectile dysfunction through prosthetics and implants,
Furthermore side effects have diminished in all treatment options. Drug interactions, tissue scarring and other concerns are still present, however less common. Those suffering from specific conditions such as liver malfunction and multiple sclerosis need to take care and consider the side effects.
Its estimated that between 11% and 16% of men suffer from headaches as a result of taking Viagra. This figure is more representative of patients that do not observe the precautions that come with the medication. Lowering the dosage of Viagra does not diminish its quality as a cure for erectile dysfunction.
Penile implants have specifically made great advancements. The incidence of infection has been greatly reduced due to the standard anti-biotic coating. Furthermore the quality of such devices means that it is rare for them to be removed, which reduces side effects.
There have also been developments in the psychological aspects of erectile dysfunction. It is now understood what side the mental aspects play in helping to find a cure for erectile dysfunction. Its most certainly now understood that both the metal and physical aspects of a person must be addressed in finding the most appropriate cure for the erectile dysfunction.
Furthermore developments in attitude- specifically a shift towards feminism have led the drive to find a cure for erectile dysfunction. The role in satisfying a woman sexually has become much more important socially than it was say 40 years ago.
There are certainly still challenges faced in finding a cure for erectile dysfunction, however the progress thus far has been very promising indeed. Shame is no longer something associated with erectile dysfunction, rather understanding and finding the most effective treatment.
Penile Implants – Treatment For Erectile Dysfunction
Penile implants or prosthetics are devices which have been shown to be an effective treatment for erectile dysfunction. Penile implants and prosthetics are an alternative for those who have tried medication and not found the desired results. They represent a safe alternative as a treatment for erectile dysfunction.
Penile implants certainly have a stigma attached from past eras. Early models were much less effective, prone to breakage and unreliable. They were also considered intrusive and even ‘unmasculine’. Decades of advancement in research and application have delivered some impressive results, and certainly shown that it is a viable treatment for erectile dysfunction, and has definitely helped men better in coping with erectile dysfunction.
In general there are 2 types of Penile Implants: malleable and inflatable.
Certain malleable penile implants are a pair of semi-rigid rods that are implanted into the penis. Others have an outer shell that is concentric around an inner one made of plastic or metal. Certain types have fixed shapes, some are adjustable.
The downside of a malleable penile implant is that it is always ‘on’ or erect. There is no flexibility and in order to allow non-sexual function, they are typically in between a full erection and a flaccid penis. They are however reasonably easy to insert surgically.
Inflatables are the more popular option in terms of penile implants, and also as a treatment for erectile dysfunction.
Inflatable’s come in either two or three sections but both perform the same function by basically the same means. A narrow tube is implanted into the penis, which is then attached to a pump and reservoir containing fluid. The pump and release mechanism are then normally implanted into the scrotum so the whole assembly is completely invisible.
When the user wants to achieve an erection he or his partner squeezes the pump, and the device will inflate in turn creating an erection. There is a release valve which makes the penis flaccid- this can also be achieved by bending the shaft to release the fluid.
Inflatable penile implants are coated with an antibiotic compound, making infection rare – between 2-3% according to recent data from Cornell University’s Department of Urology. This further supports it as an effective treatment for erectile dysfunction.
Satisfaction rates are high among penile implants- only approximately 15% of user’s require some form of follow up. Also approximately 85% of men who received one still have their original implant ten years after surgery.
However, as with any treatment for erectile dysfunction, the possibility of side-effects is present. Apart from infection, sensitivity and pain are possible, specifically after the procedure and during the first uses. Scar tissue may form- specifically if the device is removed and re-inserted. It is always advisable to seek the advice of your physician before pursuing penile implants as a treatment for erectile dysfunction.