Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a chronic disease directly associated with your sexual health. ED or impotence is characterized by one’s inability to get an erection or sustain an erection during a sexual encounter. This condition need to be treated immediately under the guidance of a registered healthcare practitioner. In some cases it also goes visible as lack of sexual desire and frequent problems with orgasm and ejaculation.
Causes of Erectile Dysfunction:
There are several physical and psychological reasons responsible for erectile-dysfunction or impotence. It can happen if the nerves to the penis fail to function in a proper manner. Another reason behind erectile dysfunction is the improper blood supply into the penis. If the veins fail to keep the blood inside the penis that is essential for erection, then impotence may occur. Less or no stimulus from brain for sexual arousal may also be a big reason for erectile dysfunction. A minor physical problem can also create anxiety about maintaining an erection. Some other primary factors that cause ED or impotence are:
- Clogged blood vessels (atherosclerosis)
- High cholesterol
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Obesity
Symptoms of ED:
Erectile dysfunction has symptoms like trouble getting an erection, trouble keeping an erection and reduced sexual desire. There could be other symptoms as well that may or may not be associated with the disease.
Risk Factors:
There are risk factors that may elevate the symptoms of erectile-dysfunction. Being overweight and certain medical conditions cause impotence. Other risk factors for ED include:
- Excessive use of tobacco
- Injuries
- Medications such as antidepressants and antihistamines
- Psychological conditions
- Drug and alcohol use
Diagnosis and Treatment:
There are several clinical tests performed during the diagnosis. All these tests are done to analyze the blood flow in the penis. Doctors prepare questionnaire related to the disease to ask the patients. Questions include the specifics of the disease experienced and current situation. Some of the clinical tests that are performed include:
- Complete blood count test
- Blood glucose test
- Liver and kidney function tests
- Blood hormone studies
- Urinalysis
Once the tests are done doctors recommend effective medication such as Viagra, Cialis and Levitra to treat the disease.
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