Psychological and physiological factors typically combine to cause this disorder. If you are unable to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual activity, then you are a candidate for this disease of the male reproductive organ. Occasional erectile failure may occur for a variety of self-limiting factors, but a 50% failure in attempts to satisfy your partner is considered clinically relevant.
Important psychological factors to be aware of are performance quality, stress and fatigue, low self esteem, depression and changes in relationships. A one-time failure to perform may make you anxious to do it again, thus, worsening the problem.
A variety of physiological factors, on the other hand, may also contribute to ED (erectile dysfunction).
Multiple age-related factors may also increase the risk of erectile dysfunction. If you are of older age, diminished testosterone levels may reduce your libido. This will lead to a decline in the number of your erections, an increase in the time needed to achieve your sexual arousal and an increase in your interval between sexual erections.
Endocrine disorders like thyroid dysfunction also decrease the desire for sexual activity. Other medical risk factors include cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, stroke, renal failure and even long-term cigarette smoking. Hereditary defects affecting your testosterone production make you susceptible to erectile dysfunction, although being castrated does not necessarily lead to impotence.
Medications like antihypertensives, antidepressants and illicit drugs such as cocaine also impair erectile dysfunction. And don’t forget to add to your list excessive alcohol intake.
A detailed medical and sexual history is the first step in determining this dysfunction. A physical examination can help you identify the factors contributing to your impotence such as congenital defects of your reproductive system or cardiovascular diseases.
Laboratory and specialized tests may be required to identify this disorder. Sometimes just giving accurate information about normal sexual function, alternative sexual activity and dispelling myths is all that is necessary for you to deal with ED. Behavioral modification techniques and counseling are often invaluable as part of your management plan to conquer your fears.
When physiologic causes are involved, medications may be altered and vices should be stopped like smoking or drinking. A wide variety of medications have become available for treatment of this disorder. Complementary and alternative therapies like the Korean Red Ginseng have been incorporated in modern medicine. Vacuum erection devices are legitimate prescribed pumps that mechanically achieve an erection.
A sensitive, caring approach by people close to you is vital because embarrassment may cause you to avoid treatment. Knowing that this disease is common and treatment alternatives are available can be reassuring. Information dissemination about this disease, the different approaches that you can make to correct this problem and the public or community resources available can make a great difference in your life. If medication is used, proper administration coupled with the prescribed directions will make you a very good candidate for recovery. Erectile dysfunction directly affects partners so it’s best to experience the diagnostic and treatment phases together.