Erectile dysfunction

Description of Erectile dysfunction

 
Description
 
Erectile dysfunction or impotency is difficulty or inability to have and maintain a penile erection firm enough for sex. Ongoing erectile dysfunction is troublesome as well as a loathsome condition. It can cause a lot of stress and serious relationship issues.
 
Causes and Risk Factors
 
Common causes include:
1. Health issues such as,
(a) Obesity
(b) Diabetes
(c) Heart disease
(d) Atherosclerosis (thickened arteries)
(e) High blood pressure
(f) Metabolic disorders
(g) Nerve disease or nerve damage
(h) Parkinson's illness
(i) Multiple sclerosis
(j) Hormonal problems
(k) Growth of scar on the penis
(l) Certain medications
(m) Substance abuse like alcohol or tobacco
(n) Surgical procedures or accidents that affect the pelvic space or spinal twine

2. Psychological issues such as,
(a) Depression
(b) Stress
(c) Anxiety

Common risk factors include, 
1. Health related disorders, particularly diabetes or heart problems
2. Too much tobacco consumption
3. Overweight/obesity
4. Treatments, such as prostate surgical procedure or radiation treatment for cancer
5. Accidents and damage to the nerves that control erections
6. Drugs such as antidepressants and antihistamines
 
Signs and Symptoms
 
Signs associated with erectile dysfunction might include:
1. Difficulty getting an erection
2. Difficult to maintain an erection enough for intercourse
3. Diminished sexual desire
 
Investigations
 
1. Blood tests: Blood counts, lipid profile, and measurements of creatinine and liver profile are done to rule out the systemic illness. Serum testosterone level can yield details about issues with the endocrine system and may explain why an affected person has decreased sexual desire.
2. Urine assessment (urinalysis)
3. Ultrasound
4. Overnight erection test
5. Physical examination
 
Treatment and Prevention
 
1. Bring lifestyle changes such as:
(a) Quit smoking
(b) Reduce alcohol consumption
(c) Shed excess weight
(d) Exercise regularly
2. Psychotherapy and counseling
3. Oral over-the-counter medications
4. Testosterone replacement therapy
5. Other specific medications may also be given
6. Surgical procedures may include:
(a) Penile implants
(b) Surgery to improve circulation
Content Details
Last updated on:
09 Feb 2021 | 07:04 PM (IST)
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