What Is Erectile Dysfunction?

Erectile Dysfunction (ED) also called impotence, is defined as the inability of a man to achieve and maintain an erection firm enough for sexual activity and orgasm. This condition commonly affects older men however, it can affect younger men due to a number of factors. Erectile Dysfunction is a serious problem that can affect a man's psyche and health.

If you're struggling, don't wait—take control and seek the help you deserve. There's often an underlying issue at play, and finding the cause is the first step to feeling better. At our clinic, we dive deep into your health to uncover the root cause and create a tailored treatment plan that fits your lifestyle for lasting results.

Erectile dysfunction becomes more likely with factors like age, chronic conditions, smoking, medication, low testosterone, and obesity.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction may manifest itself in the following ways:

1. Inability to have or maintain an erection
2. Problems with maintaining an erection for a sufficient duration
3. A decrease in the desire for sexual activity
   
   

What Are the Main Causes of Erectile Dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction can be caused by a variety of physical and emotional factors. Physical causes include the following:

1. Cardiovascular disease (e.g. blockage of blood vessels)
2. High cholesterol level
3. High blood pressure
4. Diabetes
5. Obesity
6. Parkinson’s disease
7. Multiple sclerosis (MS)
8. Smoking
9. Metabolic syndrome
10. Scar tissue inside the penis (Peyronie’s Disease)
11. Alcoholism or substance abuse
12. Pelvic or spinal cord damage due to trauma or surgery
13. Low testosterone levels (hypogonadism)

In addition to physical factors, emotional factors may also contribute to the development of erectile dysfunction. These include:

1. Stress
2. Mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety
   
   

How is Erectile Dysfunction Diagnosed?

Diagnosing erectile dysfunction involves a review of one’s medical history, a physical examination, and possibly additional laboratory tests. During the physical examination, the doctor will check for physical abnormalities and assess nerve sensitivity in the genital area. They may also order blood tests, urine tests (urinalysis), or ultrasound scans to identify underlying factors that may have contributed to the condition.

What are the Treatments for Erectile Dysfunction?

There are a variety of erectile dysfunction treatments in that is based on the underlying cause and severity. Among them are:

1. Oral Medications - A doctor may prescribe medications to treat symptoms of erectile dysfunction and improve sexual function by increasing blood circulation to the penis.
   
   
2. Testosterone Therapy - This therapy may help in mild cases of erectile dysfunction in men who have abnormally low testosterone levels.
   
   
3. Injection Therapy - A thin needle is used to inject certain medications into the penis in order to help induce an erection.
   
   
4. Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) - This procedure applies low-intensity shock waves to improve penile blood flow and stimulate the growth of new blood vessels in the erectile tissue.
   
   
5. Surgical Treatment - This is one form of erectile dysfunction treatment in which a penile implant or penile prosthesis is inserted into the body to improve erections.

FAQs on Erectile Dysfunction