Erectile Dysfunction and How it Can Affect You
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a condition that describes a man’s inability to achieve or maintain a firm erection adequate enough for sexual activity. ED is one of the most prevalent sexual concerns for men, and the probability of being affected with this conditions increases with age.
Doctors estimate that between 20 and 30 million men suffer from erectile dysfunction at various times during their lives, although some men may suffer more severely than others. Many men suffer from bouts of ED once in a while, but those with severe cases may suffer from a host of issues including low self esteem, depression, performance problems, and generalized anxiety.
In a healthy man with normal erectile function, the brain sends signals to the penis to increase blood flow in response to exciting stimulus. This stimulus may be visual, audio, or tactile, and sends small electrical pulses down the nerves to the penis. The spongy tissues along the bottom and sides of the penis fill with the excess blood, causing it to stiffen. The penis remains hard until the main achieves orgasm, or until the exciting stimulus ceases to occur.
In order for a man to achieve an erection, he must be healthy enough for sexual activity. The circulatory system must be functioning properly, the penis must be free of any injuries that may interrupt blood flow, and there must be proper levels of testosterone in the body. Any decrease in this essential hormone can make it difficult to impossible for a man to achieve a firm erection.
Treating erectile dysfunction requires and open and honest discussion with your doctor. He will evaluate your hormone levels and conduct a complete physical to rule out any existing medical problems. You may also discuss any stressors in your life that may be causing your ED, such as relationship problems or stress on the job. Your doctor will then prescribe a course of treatment to alleviate erectile dysfunction, such as medication or physical stimulation.
Talking about your erectile dysfunction issues may be uncomfortable, but it is the first step to reclaiming your life.