Erectile dysfunction is a fairly common condition and can occur at any age. However, the chance of having this condition is more in older men. In this article, you’ll find the symptoms of erectile dysfunction to opt for the best treatment available.
What is erectile dysfunction (ED)?
Erectile dysfunction is also known as impotence and is defined as the inability to maintain an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. Impotence is not used so often now for this condition.
Occasional erectile dysfunction is very common. Many men face this condition during times of stress. But frequent erectile dysfunction is a severe form and can be an indication of many health problems. Thus, in this case, the person should find the proper treatment as soon as possible. It can be a sign of emotional disturbance and relationship difficulties. And both these conditions require help from a professional.
5 Symptoms of erectile dysfunction
Following are the symptoms of erectile dysfunction:
- Trouble getting an erection
- Difficulty in keeping an erection during sexual intercourse
- Reduced sexual desire
- Premature ejaculation
- Delayed ejaculation
These symptoms need medical assistance, mainly if they last for 3 months or longer. Medical professionals can help you determine whether your symptoms are due to a condition that needs treatment or not.
Causes of erectile dysfunction
There are many possible causes of erectile dysfunction. These include both emotional and physical health conditions. Some of the most common causes include:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Diabetes
- Hypertension or high blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Obesity
- Hormonal imbalances, including low testosterone levels
- Kidney disease
- Aging
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Relationship issues
- Some prescribed medications such as those used for the treatment of high blood pressure and depression
- Sleep disorders
- Drug addiction or use
- Too much alcohol intake
- Using tobacco products
- Different health conditions such as Parkinson’s disease or multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Any damage to the pelvic region due to accident or surgery
Erectile dysfunction can be a result of one of the causes mentioned or many of them. That’s why it’s essential to consult a doctor so that he can find out the exact cause and the proper treatment.
Erectile dysfunction treatment
The treatment of erectile dysfunction is possible after determining the underlying cause for this condition. The most common treatment methods for erectile dysfunction are:
- Medication
- Talk therapy
- Vacuum pumps
You’ll have to use a combination of treatments to get rid of this condition.
When you need to see a doctor
If you hesitate to go to a doctor to discuss erectile dysfunction, you can start with a family doctor. Tell him that you have erectile problems, and he’ll either provide you the best treatment or provide you encouragement to seek help from experts. You need to see your doctor if:
- You’re having issues with erection, and you’re having other sexual problems such as premature or delayed ejaculation
- You’re suffering from a health condition, such as diabetes, that might be linked to erectile dysfunction
- You have other signs and symptoms along with the erectile dysfunction