Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is completely treatable in most cases, with different treatment options available. The treatment options usually focus on the underlying conditions. Anyone diagnosed with ED should undergo a thorough physical and mental health assessment to verify the underlying causes of the ED symptoms, and to establish the proper course of treatment.
Medical professionals will highlight the different treatment options after a full assessment is carried out, and once the underlying conditions are identified. They will present the available options and leave the decision making to you. To be able to make an informed decision and ask the right questions, you need to have a general overview of the available treatment options, which we consider in this article.
Erectile dysfunction is defined as the constant inability to achieve or maintain an erection for satisfactory sexual intercourse. It can be classified into two main types:
The origin of the condition is organic when it is caused by the dysfunction of the arteries, veins and nerves that regulate blood supply to the penis. Organic ED can be caused by atherosclerosis, atrophy, and fibrosis; neurological problems; hormonal imbalances or medicinal side effects.
This is defined as uncontrolled early ejaculation that occurs either before or within one minute of penetration, in all or most sexual encounters. PE can either be classified as lifelong, acquired or performance anxiety (PE).
The treatment options for ED are dependent on the identification and treatment of its underlying conditions.
Specific treatments for ED symptoms include:
Exercises such as Kegels, cardiovascular exercise, and yoga are helpful in cases where ED symptoms are caused by an unhealthy lifestyle. If stress and obesity are identified as the underlying factors, exercise could be recommended.
Cardiovascular exercise works to improve blood circulation and can decrease cholesterol levels when combined with a healthy diet. Kegels strengthen the abdominal floor muscles involved in sexual performance. Yoga reduces stress levels, increases muscle, and helps to lose or maintain weight.
Even if obesity is not a contributing factor to ED, exercise is often still recommended and can be combined with medicinal treatment for optimal results.
Herbal or alternative medicines such as asparagus, DHEA, ginseng, L-arginine, L-carnitine, Horny goat weed and zinc could also be recommended.
These help to regulate blood circulation and can affect hormone levels. Since they can also act as stimulants, they are usually not to be taken in conjunction with other medicines such as heart pills.
Acupuncture and prostatic message can be combined with other treatment measures. With several studies conducted, prostatic massage has been shown to help improve symptoms of ED.
Some of the most common ED drugs are Sildenafil (Viagra), Vardenafil (Levitra), Tadalafil (Cialis), and Avanafil (Stendra). These medications should only be taken as prescribed by a healthcare professional, as they may have adverse side effects. For example, if taken together with nitrates used for heart pain, they could cause heart attack.
This is a suction device that draws blood into the penis, resulting in an erection. It is considered a safe treatment option, as it is non-invasive and has no side effects.
This is a last resort for those that do not respond to drugs or alternative treatments. Vascular reconstructive surgeries are helpful in cases where the underlying condition is arterial damage due to diabetes, injury of alcohol or drug abuse.
Penile implants are usually done in outpatient surgeries and take about an hour to complete. These include inflatable implants or semi-rigid implants. They may not be the best option for persons with a pulmonary or urinary tract infection.
The best ED treatment option should directly address the underlying condition, have little to no side effects, and be minimally invasive.
Discuss the options presented by your doctor extensively before agreeing to pursue treatment. If you’re willing to gain back your confidence, discover which effective ED treatments are available to you today.
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