Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is the persistent inability to attain and/or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual activity.
The occasional temporary erectile failure due to tiredness, stress or excessive alcohol consumption is not the same thing. Erectile dysfunction is a long-term, recurrent medical problem needing proper diagnosis and treatment.
Impotence is a consistent inability to sustain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse. Medical professionals use the term "erectile dysfunction" or ED to describe this disorder. The American Foundation for Urologic Disease (AFUD) says use of the term ED differentiates this problem from other issues that interfere with sexual intercourse, such as lack of sexual desire and problems with ejaculation and orgasm.
Causes
Basically, any disorder that impairs blood flow in the penis has the potential to cause ED. This includes:
- disease
- injury
- surgical side effects
- drug side effects
- psychological issues
Of these, disease is the most common cause. The National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NKUDIC) says diseases - including diabetes, kidney disease, chronic alcoholism, multiple sclerosis, atherosclerosis, and vascular disease - account for about 70% of cases of ED. Between 35% and 50% of men with diabetes experience ED.
Surgery, for example prostate surgery, can also cause problems for the nerves and arteries near the penis, causing ED. In addition, injury to the penis, spinal cord, prostate, bladder, and pelvis can lead to ED.
Many medications can also result in ED as a side effect. NKUDIC says these include different types of drugs that can be used to treat high blood pressure, allergies, depression, ulcers, and anxiety. In addition, there are psychological factors that themselves contribute to roughly 10% of ED cases, according to NKUDIC. Smoking is also linked to erectile problems.
The First Step: Awareness
Chronic E.D. affects 5% of men in their 40's and 15-25% of men by the age of 65.
Transient or inadequate erections may affect 50% of men between the ages of 40-70.
Although sexual impotence is a problem which millions of men encounter at some point in their life, it remains difficult for many of them to admit the problem first to themselves, and subsequently to their partner and physician. This can often mean that they are prevented from ever enjoying sexual activity regularly again. Men who feel this way are not alone, since it is known that of those men who suffer from impotence in this country, fewer than 8 per cent have ever been treated.
Ignoring sexual problems was previously thought to be acceptable, but in this modern world we have realised that sexual wellness very often translates to general wellness and wellbeing. We are far more concerned about living long, healthy, happy and fulfilled lives than worrying about our pride being potentially bruised by discussing our problem with our doctor. Nowadays there are many highly effective treatments which we can choose from, both surgical and non-surgical, however our first step needs to be asking ourself whether we have a problem or not.
Impotence means the inability to achieve an erection which is hard enough and which maintains itself long enough to complete sexual intercourse satisfactorily. In other words, if your penis does not become rigid enough to allow vaginal penetration, you are impotent. If your erections have the necessary rigidity, but remain rigid for only a short time, then you may have an impotence problem. If you can see yourself in either of these descriptions then you may wish to take the first step, admit it to yourself, and begin to improve your situation and thereby your overall wellbeing.
If you are highly motivated to resume sexual activity on a regular basis, are willing to learn new techniques and methods to help the situation and have the required conviction in the process which you undergo, then there is every chance that you will be successful in treating this problem.
Diagnosing and Treatment
In the majority of cases, erectile dysfunction can be successfully treated. It is therefore important for patients to seek advice from their doctor, for the good of themselves, their partners and their relationships.
In determining the cause of ED, a doctor will consider the patient's medical and sexual history. A physical exam and lab tests can also be used. The National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NKUDIC) says most physicians suggest that treatments for ED proceed along a path moving from least invasive to most invasive. This means cutting back on any harmful drugs is considered first. Psychotherapy and behavior modifications are considered next, often focusing on ways to reduce anxiety.
If less invasive techniques prove unsuccessful, The American Foundation for Urologic Disease (AFUD) and NKUDIC say additional treatments can include any of the folowing:
Drugs
Drugs for treating ED can be taken orally, applied or injected directly on or into the penis, or inserted into the urethra at the tip of the penis. Oral medications include sildenafil citrate (which increases blood flow to the penis) as well as testosterone (used for men affected by low testosterone levels). As with any medication, consult your doctor about potential side effects. Injected medications also work to increase blood flow to the penis, but can result in side effects that include persistent erection (known as priapism) and scarring.
Passion8 is unable to sell prescription drugs. We do however offer a range of herbal supplements. Click here to see our recommended suggestions.
Surgery
Surgically implanted devices devices, known as prostheses, can restore erection in many men with ED. Possible problems with implants include mechanical breakdown and infection. NKUDIC says surgery involving veins or arteries is also an option.
Dispelling the Myths: Common Questions about ED
Dispelling the following myths about erectile dysfunction (the more precise term for impotence) will help men and their partners to understand the condition and open channels of communications between them and medical professionals.
Erectile dysfunction (ED) means loss of interest in sex, lack of vigour or sterility right?
No. In most cases, affected men retain desire and the ability to have an orgasm and ejaculate. erectile dysfunction means a difficulty with erections, not a loss of interest in sex, sterility, or a lack of strength, vigour or power.
Difficulty with erections is not that common and doesn't happen to "real" men right?
Sorry, wrong again. erectile dysfunction is common with estimates of more than 100 million men worldwide suffering the condition to some degree.
Erectile dysfunction is a natural part of growing old isn't it?
It doesn't have to be. Although there is a higher incidence of erectile dysfunction among older men because of age-related conditions, including vascular disease, diabetes and medications for these conditions. Although it mainly affects older men, it also occurs in younger males. erectile dysfunction should not be considered a natural or acceptable part of the ageing process.
Most cases of erectile dysfunction are due to a psychological problem with the guy right?
You're way off. Seventy to ninety percent of men suffering from erectile dysfunction have an underlying physical cause for their impotence, although psychological factors may also play a role. Erectile dysfunction is a medical condition often caused by other health problems, including diabetes, cardiovascular conditions and trauma. The physical risk factors for erectile dysfunction fall into five main groups: Vascular disorders - circulatory problems that interfere with blood supply to the penis including hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis), diabetes, high blood pressure and abnormally raised blood cholesterol.
Erectile dysfunction doesn't really affect your health and you should learn to live with it and be a man about it.
Erectile dysfunction is a significant source of emotional stress, and can lead to poor self-image, loss of self-confidence and depression. Unfortunately, embarrassment and unwillingness to discuss sexual matters openly mean erectile dysfunction often remains undiagnosed and untreated. It is important to seek medical advice and appropriate treatment.
The diagnosis of erectile dysfunction involves embarrassing and invasive testing.
The diagnosis of erectile dysfunction involves techniques such as taking a medical and sexual history, asking about smoking, alcohol and medications. Only a standard physical examination is usually needed, including taking your blood pressure. Laboratory tests on blood and urine will help identify any underlying medical cause that may need treatment.
There's no point in seeking treatment because erectile dysfunction is not easily treated.
In the majority of cases, erectile dysfunction can be successfully treated. It is therefore important for patients to seek advice from their doctor, for the good of themselves, their partners and their relationships.
Which Passion8 products can help with ED
In all instances of suspected ED Passion8 recommends that you consult with a doctor. We do however offer a range of products that can assist with ED treatments.
Blakoe Ring For Men - Erection Control at its best
Using magnetic therapy, the Blakoe Ring is a Grade One registered medical device, proven to help in aiding and sustaining an erection, prevent dribbling, and to improve sexual stamina.
Stimulating Oil for Men - VigRX Oil
Used daily and just before intercourse VigRX Oil for Men is a poweful stimulating syngeristic blend designed to enhance penile and sexual health, encouraging stronger and harder erections.
Also availble in the VigRX Range VigRX Capsules to improve sexual performance, erections and libido.
Get a Bigger Erection with the Mustang Penis Pump
For a stronger erection and effective penis enlargment we recommend the The Mustang Penis Pump Also in the Mustang Penis Pump Range:
Bathmate Hydrotherapy Penis Workout System
Using the therapeutic benefits of water the Bathmate Hydrotherapy Penis Enlargement System is the world's first penis enlargement pump for maximum penile fitness helping to enhance size, performance and male stamina. Watch our online demo film to see how effective it can be for all men.
Penis Creams and Creams to help with erection and penis enlargement
No penis cream can make a penis bigger, but topical creams help expand penile tissue, increase ciculation to the penis and improve erection capacity. See our range of Penis Creams
Penis Enlargement Pills
There's no instant magic - just time and effort needed. We have a quality range of penis enlargement pills - Penis Pills are designed to increase circulation, by improving blood flow more nutirents flow into the muscles and penile tissue, making it bigger, stronger and more effective. See our range of Penis Pills and Penis Enlargement Pills:
