Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED), also known as impotence, is a condition where a man has difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection strong enough for penetrative sexual intercourse.

It is caused by a lack of blood flow to the penis. There are many causes of this impeded blood flow, from other conditions (e.g., diabetes) to emotional factors (e.g., performance anxiety).

ED is not always serious or long-lasting, and men of all ages should expect to experience it sometimes.

If, however, you find you frequently struggle to get an erection, you should seek treatment and advice from a doctor. Though not a dangerous condition, ED can lead to further social and mental health concerns, such as relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, and anxiety.

Luckily, there are many treatment options available to help, including various effective medications.

How does an erection work?

An erection is the process of increased blood flow into tube-like chambers in the penis. These chambers are called the corpora cavernosa – when filled with blood, they make the penis enlarge and elongate.

The erection process first starts with mental or sensory stimulation – this is when you are aroused.

Impulses are sent from the brain to local nerves to instruct the muscles around the corpora cavernosa to relax.

This allows blood to flow through the penile artery and the penis expands. The blood flow to the penis at this point can be eight times that of the normal blood flow.

The veins that drain the blood are then cut off, trapping it in the penis. The pressure increases, allowing the penis to become, and remain, erect.

Now, the blood pressure in the penis can be as much as twice as high as in the rest of the body's circulatory system.

An erection ends when the muscles in the penis contract.

The deoxygenated blood is then carried away via the deep dorsal veins, and the penis becomes flaccid.

Is ED the same as premature ejaculation?

No – while both fall under the category of male sexual dysfunction and both affect erectile function, they are different conditions.

ED is the inability to achieve or sustain an erection after arousal, whilst premature ejaculation (PE) occurs when a man can achieve an erection but reaches orgasm early.

Penile anatomy

The penis consists of three main sections or parts:

1. The root – this where the penis attaches to the pelvic wall and the abdomen
2. The shaft (or body) – this is the longest part of the penis and is the visible part that extends from the root to the head
3. The glans (or head) – this is the cone-shaped top of the penis. A loose fold of skin called the prepuce or foreskin covers the glans of the penis in uncircumcised men

The shaft of the penis is made up of three columns of erectile tissue, which can be seen in the diagram below:

• Corpora Cavernosa – these are the two columns of erectile tissue that run along the sides of the penis and fill up with blood during an erection
• Corpus Spongiosum – this is the third column of erectile tissue that runs along the front of the penis

Erectile dysfunction is caused by either psychological or physical issues, or sometimes a combination of the two.

A great way for a man to identify the underlying cause is to check whether an erection occurs naturally in the morning and then a struggle to achieve an erection when aroused.

Depending on what this comparison shows, various physical or psychological causes that can be considered.

You should always consult a doctor to confirm any diagnosis.

The leading cause of erectile dysfunction is linked to old age, however It is important to note that a large percentage of men affected are below the age of 40.

Causes of ED include:

• anxiety (performance anxiety)
• depression
• lifestyle factors (obesity/high blood pressure/etc)
• injuries from accidents
• surgical complications
• side effects of medication
• chronic health conditions (diabetes/psoriasis/etc.)
• multiple sclerosis (MS)
• cardiovascular disease (heart disease)
• porn-induced erectile dysfunction (PIED)

Physical vs psychological causes

When ED occurs in young men, the cause is often psychological. Stress, depression, and relationship problems are all contributing factors. However, a physiological cause cannot always be ruled out. This is why it is important to speak with a medical professional who has experience in urology.

Older men experience erectile dysfunction at a higher rate than younger men. So if you are in the 60+ age bracket, there is nothing to be alarmed about – especially with so many treatments available.

If you are older, you should be aware of risk factors and health problems linked to vascular issues. For example, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes are contributing factors to conditions like atherosclerosis (a build-up of plaque in the arteries).

A diagnosis should always be made by a professional.

Although, for some men, erectile dysfunction can be resolved with simple lifestyle changes, an effective treatment method is often required.

Prescription medication

Oral prescription medication is the most popular form of erectile dysfunction treatment.

They can provide either a long or short-term solution. There are many prescription drugs available with varying dosages and strengths, including:

• Viagra
• Sildenafil
• Cialis
• Tadalafil
• Levitra
• Stendra (avanafil)
• Staxyn (vardenafil)

All of the medications listed above increase blood flow to the penis. They are grouped under a drug class called “PDE5 inhibitors”. They allow the user to achieve a firmer and longer-lasting erection.

Please note that as these medicines are ineffective without sexual stimulation, it is also important to address any psychological factors.

Men taking nitrates cannot be prescribed the above medications.

Lifestyle changes

• A healthy diet - both high blood pressure (hypertension) and high cholesterol can damage the arteries. Damaged arteries are less capable of delivering sufficient blood to the penis when aroused. A healthy diet is an effective treatment for these conditions.
• Reducing alcohol consumption - studies show that alcohol doesn't just create short-term ED problems. Symptoms of impotence can often persist for months after a period of heavy drinking.
• Quitting smoking - smoking clogs the arteries and reduces blood flow. Plus, nicotine also restricts your blood vessels.
• Combatting stress - some men have found managing their stress levels (i.e., via meditation) has had a positive effect on both their erection problems and sex life.

Herbal treatments

Opinion on the use of herbal treatments to combat ED is divided, and the effectiveness of the treatment depends on the individual.

As ED herbal remedies don't boast the same success rate as prescription treatments, and in nearly all cases, are not subject to clinical studies, you should consult with your doctor first.

Counseling

Counseling is a great option for those suffering from psychologically induced ED. It has been shown to be exceptionally effective when combined with prescription medication.

Counseling includes psychosexual therapy, couple’s therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

If required, counseling can also be combined with antidepressants. However, you should only take these on the advice of your doctor.

Vacuum constriction devices (VCDs)

VCDs (penis pumps) create a vacuum that draws blood into the penis so it can swell and become erect.

As the effect is temporary and the usage of respective products doesn't come without risk, it is strictly advised to seek medical assistance before using a vacuum device.

Surgery

Surgery is usually considered a “last resort” option.

The exception is for men who have been in serious accidents or who have damage, disfigurement, or anatomical issues with their penis (e.g., Peyronie’s Disease).

Other than this, penile implants (semi-rigid and inflatable) can also be viable options.

Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT)

Once a man reaches his thirties, his testosterone levels begin to decrease. One effect of low testosterone is a lowered libido and erectile dysfunction.

There are means of delaying this until later in life, for example, exercise, a healthy diet, genetics, and testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).

If you notice a change in your libido, you should have your testosterone levels checked by your doctor.

We only offer prescription medication for this condition that has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

While Viagra is the most popular, there are various other treatments capable of enabling a man to gain and sustain a stronger erection.

Each treatment has its benefits, although they all work in the same way. For example, Cialis Daily is the lowest dosage and can be taken once-a-day, which can be handy for those requiring spontaneity.

A full list of treatments can be seen by clicking the Men’s Health section of the menu. These include:

• Viagra
• Sildenafil
• Cialis
• Tadalafil
• Levitra
• Stendra (avanafil)
• Staxyn (vardenafil)

We understand that this condition may be embarrassing for some men to discuss with others, which is why our service is discreet – all packages are plainly labeled.

If you are not sure which medication is right for you, you can take our free and quick online consultation. A physical examination is not needed. One of our doctors will then recommend a treatment most suited to your circumstances.

Once approved by our doctors, you can order online from SpeedyHealth. All orders include a 24-48 hour delivery service.

We are a fully licensed and approved healthcare provider. Certificates are linked in the footer of this page.