Erectile Dysfunction

What is erectile dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction is a man's consistent inability to get or maintain an erection. Erectile dysfunction can occur at any age, and a number of factors may contribute to the problem.

What are the symptoms of erectile dysfunction?

Symptoms include inability to have an erection at any time, inability to maintain a
firm erection or inability to maintain an erection long enough to complete intercourse.

What causes erectile dysfunction?

The cause of erectile dysfunction may be either physical or psychological, or a combination of the two. Physical causes include vascular problems, neurologic problems, problems with the structure of the penis, hormonal problems or medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, atherosclerosis, multiple sclerosis, stroke and Parkinson's disease. Physical factors that can be controlled include alcohol consumption, smoking and drug use. Medications being taken for other conditions may also be a factor. Injury to the penis or pelvic region, injury to the spinal cord and pelvic surgery can result in erectile dysfunction.

Psychological causes of erectile dysfunction include anxiety, depression, stress, grief or relationship issues.

How is erectile dysfunction treated?

Treatment for erectile dysfunction depends on the cause of the problem. If the problem is due to psychological issues, counseling is usually appropriate. Oftentimes, counseling is coupled with medication. Medication may be used to treat erectile dysfunction caused by vascular, hormonal, neurological or psychological problems.

Several prescription drugs are prescribed to treat this condition. They work by relaxing the blood vessels that supply blood to the penis. Research has shown that nearly 70 percent of men with erectile dysfunction improve with the use of prescription drugs. Other medications to treat erectile dysfunction are injected medications such as Caverject, Pavabid and Regitine; intra-urethral alprostadil; Yohimbine; and hormonal therapy.

In rare cases, surgery may be an option for treating erectile dysfunction. Penile implants and penile blood vessel surgery are two surgical options. Penile implants replace the penis tissue that fills with blood during an erection. The implants cause an erection when pumped with a solution that is stored in the lower abdomen. With penile blood vessel surgery, a portion of another blood vessel is used to bypass the artery that sends blood to the penis.

Other treatment options for erectile dysfunction are vacuum devices and external penile splints. Vacuum devices are plastic tubes that fit around the penis. The air can be pumped out of the tube, producing an erection. A band is then placed at the bottom of the penis to keep the erection, and the tube is removed. External penile splints provide mechanical support and work by holding up the penis.