An Introduction to Erectile Dysfunction
Basic Knowledge on Impotence - 05/14/2007
Erectile dysfunction is a broad term that describes several illnesses, but most often describes the problem of having and maintaning an adequate erection for normal sexual intercourse. This is more prevalent in men older than 65, but can actually happen at any age. Most men will experience erectile dysfunction on occassion and this is in line with normal physical functioning. As men get older, it may also take longer for erections to develop, might take more direct stimulation or might not be as hard. There can also be a reduction in the amount of ejaculate, an increase in recovery time between erections and less intensive orgasms.
When erectile dysfunction proves to be a pattern or a persistent problem, it can interfere with a man's self-image as well as his and his partner's sexual life. Erectile dysfunction may also be a sign of a physical or emotional problem that requires treatment. Erectile dysfunction was once a taboo subject, but more men are seeking help. Doctors are gaining a better understanding of what causes erectile dysfunction and are finding new and better treatments.
Erectile dysfunction can be a source of embarassment for men affecting their self-estemm as well as the health of their sex life. This should not, but has before, prevented men from seeking help. This has led to some confusion on the subject, but more and more men are getting answers as doctors are gaining better knowledge of where impotence can originate from. For example, there is a lot of good evidence that ED can be a symptom of physical or emotional problems.
Symptoms of erectile dysfunction can be anywhere between the complete inability to achieve an erection, patterns of being unable to attain an erection or inability to maintain the erection through intercourse.
Structurally, the penis has two sponge-like structures that lie along the length of the shaft parallel to the urethra. Due to sexual arousal, nerves will cause blood flow to these cylinder like structures to increase expanding them. This produces the erection and the continued high rate of blood flow through excitement keeps it firm. After ejaculation, or the sexual excitement passes, the blood flow returns to normal and the penis returns to it's original nonerect state.
Both physical and emotional problems can interfere with this process. Examples of physical causes include nerve damage, spinal cord injuries, MS (multiple sclerosis), cardiovascular health problems, hormonal imbalances, certain medications, alcoholism or drug abuse. Examples of nonphysical caueses might be stress, anxiety, depression, general fatigue, resentment, or hostility. This is not a complete list and the best place to check with is with your health professional.
Consistent or patterned impotence should be a warning sign to go get a check up with your doctor. This is a good idea especially since it is commonly treatable or because it could possibly be a symptom of some other underlying sickness.
ED certaintly has an emotional impact on most men's mental well being, but they also need to realize that their partners can be affected as well. This is a problem that can be tackled as a team and openly discussed, not only to foster open communication, but to help in getting through the problem. Your doctor may prescribe Viagra (or some of it's competitors Cialis or Levitra), but as with all prescription medications, these are not without possible side effects.
More than anything else we would just like to shed some light and basic information and this often obfuscated topic, and encourage men to seek help from their physicians to improve their quality of life.
back to the men's health impotence center
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