Erectile Dysfunction (ED): Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, And Treatment

What is erectile dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a penile disorder which makes it difficult for men to maintain a firm erection for intercourse. Your feeling plays a pivotal role in maintaining an erection. It is necessary for you to feel relaxed and confident for arousal. But many of the men face some erection issues. This problem arises when you feel anxious, nervous, tired or frustrated during intercourse. Also, sometimes consuming alcohol and other substances can have an impact on erection. Such problems can also arise due to certain medications or cancer treatments.   

If you face an erection problem, then it’s better to consult with the doctor and book an appointment for further discussion. In many cases, erectile dysfunction (ED) is the first symptom of various underlying problems. Your healthcare provider will try to diagnose if there are other causes of the erection problem to cure the issue from its root. The other names of ED for men are impotence.

What are the types of erectile dysfunction? 

There are many types of Erectile dysfunction (ED); let’s have a look at them:

Vascular erectile dysfunction:  In vascular erectile dysfunction (ED), your blood vessels are affected. These blood vessels are responsible for sending blood to tissues of your penis or sending blood to penis valves which usually hold the blood inside, which results in a proper erection. Vascular ED is the most common erection problem.

Neurogenic erectile dysfunction: This happens because of nerve problems which stop signals that travel from your brain to the penis for erection. Such conditions may arise due to trauma, radiation therapy, pelvic surgery or other neurologic conditions like multiple sclerosis, spinal stenosis or stroke.

Hormonal erectile dysfunction: This erectile dysfunction (ED) occurs due to testosterone deficiency, or in some cases, it may happen because of thyroid issues.

Psychogenic erectile dysfunction: Psychogenic erectile dysfunction (ED) may happen due to psychological conditions like your thoughts, behaviour or feelings.

How common is erectile dysfunction?

It is the most common sex-related problem which men can come across, especially when they become older or develop some health issues. You must consult your healthcare provider to get the right cure for this problem.

What is the usual age for erectile dysfunction?

Researchers have estimated that this problem arises in 50% of men between 40 and 70. These numbers may be higher, as many people are hesitant to discuss this problem with their healthcare provider

What are the symptoms of erectile dysfunction?

Below mentioned are some of the typical ED symptoms: 

• You cannot always get an erection before intercourse.
• Able to achieve erection before intercourse but unable to retain it while having sex.
• Inability to get an erection completely.
• Requires a lot of stimulation to maintain erection. 

What causes erectile dysfunction?

There are several possible reasons behind erectile dysfunction (ED). Let’s have a look at each of them:

Circulatory system: Our circulatory system comprises blood vessels circulating blood throughout our body. Your penis needs sufficient blood supply to erect and maintain erection. Also, your penis requires a series of valves to close when it is filled with blood. In some situations, the valve stops working in the way it is supposed to work.

Nervous system: Our nervous system consists of nerves, the spinal cord and the brain. Together these organs send electrical impulses which allow our body to feel and move, including the penis.

Endocrine system: Our endocrine gland contains glands that release and create hormones. Because of hormones, our body performs specific tasks. Any problem in your testosterone hormone can lead to erectile dysfunction (ED), as this hormone is responsible for the opening of blood vessels that help the blood to reach the penis.

Below are some common causes of erectile dysfunction:

Certain conditions or diseases:

• Hypertension or high blood pressure
• Vascular disease
• Diabetes 
• Testosterone deficiency
• Severe kidney disease
• Peyronie’s disease
• Epilepsy

Injuries to your penis or the area surrounding it can also lead to Erectile dysfunction (ED). Below is the list of such injuries:

• Penile fracture
• Pelvic surgery, colon, prostate, and bladder cancer surgery.
• Radiation therapy
• Pelvic bone injuries, prostate, bladder, spinal cord. 

Certain medications

Side effects of many medications may make you face Erectile dysfunction ED symptoms. These common medicines include:

• Antidepressants
• Parkinson’s disease drugs.
• Sedatives
• Prostate cancer drugs
• Muscle relaxers
• Chemotherapy drugs
• Muscle relaxers
• Diuretics
• Antiseizure medications
• Blood pressure medications 

Other substances

Certain addictive substances can also cause Erectile dysfunction (ED); these include:

• Alcohol
• Marijuana
• Cocaine
• Nicotine
• Opioids
• Barbiturates
• Amphetamines
• Methadone 

All the above substances can suppress your central nervous system and damage your blood vessels. It can lead to permanent erectile dysfunction. 

Psychological and emotional conditions

Below are such conditions:

• Depression
• Stress
• Anxiety
• Low self-esteem
• Trouble during sexual intercourse 
• Lack of motivation

What is the primary cause of erectile dysfunction?

When your body is unable to supply adequate blood to your penis, then it can cause erectile dysfunction.

Who does erectile dysfunction (ED) affect?

Below are some of the conditions which may lead to erectile dysfunction (ED):

• If you are older than 40 years
• Diabetes
• Depression
• Body Mass Index (BMI) is more than 25.
• Smoke 
• Physically inactive 

How is erectile dysfunction (ED) diagnosed?

Your healthcare provider can diagnose erectile dysfunction (ED) and can know its cause. They will check your medical history and do some physical examination. They might ask you questions regarding your sexual and personal life. Don’t feel embarrassed or awkward, as it is a part of their ED treatment. You must be honest with the doctor to help them know the exact cause behind erectile dysfunction (ED). 

Their diagnosis process will include specific questions: 

• Are there any medications like over-the-counter pills, prescription drugs, dietary supplements, herbal supplements or any nonmedical drugs?
• Have you ever faced issues like anxiety or depression?
• Do you remain in stressful conditions?
• Are there any relationship problems that you are facing?
• How often do you get erection problems? 
• How hard are your erections?
• For how much duration are you able to maintain an erection?
• Do you lose erections as you ejaculate more quickly than you should be?
• When did you first notice Erectile dysfunction ED symptoms?  
• Do you face erection problems during the day or night?
• In which sexual position do you usually engage?

Your healthcare provider may also talk with your partner. Your partner may also be able to give some more insights on potential causes to know more about ED symptoms.

Your doctor may recommend specific tests to know the cause of ED. It will help them to give ED medication accordingly. 

What tests will be done to diagnose erectile dysfunction?

Based on the cause, below are some of the tests your healthcare provider may recommend: 

• Blood test
• Lipid profile test
• Complete blood count
• Thyroid test
• Liver function test
• Testosterone test
• Kidney function test
• Urinalysis
• Penile Doppler ultrasound
• Tests to measure the response of your penis nerves to vibrations
• Drugs that can make your penis erect temporarily (vasoactive injection)
• Magnetic Resonance angiogram (MRA). 

Before the test, your doctor will let you know the complete procedure and you may ask queries to them, if any. 

What is the best way to fix erectile dysfunction?

Firstly, you must know the underlying cause to treat ED. Your healthcare provider will let you know the best line of ED treatment to fix erectile dysfunction (ED) problems.

• Cardiovascular exercise: Indulge yourself in cardiovascular exercise for 45 minutes. It includes brisk walking, swimming, cycling, etc. It will increase the overall blood circulation in your body, including your penis.
• Quit smoking: In men with mild ED problems, quitting smoking can improve the situation. 

Will ED go away on its own?

No, ED can’t go away on its own. You need to make changes in your lifestyle or consult a doctor for ED treatment.

Can ED be prevented?

Change in your lifestyle can lower your risk of developing ED. Such changes include:

• Lower your cholesterol level
• Remain physically active, like being involved in cardiovascular exercise like cycling, jogging, etc.
• Keep a check on your weight
• Get a quality sleep
• Stop smoking and alcohol consumption

What can I expect if I have erectile dysfunction?

It would help if you remained positive, as ED is a treatable condition. Although some causes of ED are not treatable, there are many ED treatment options available that can allow you to erect hard enough during sexual intercourse.

When should I see a healthcare provider?

You must contact a primary physician or an urologist if you are facing ED symptoms. They will diagnose the cause behind ED and suggest better ED treatment to solve this issue. An urologist is a doctor who deals with ED treatment conditions related to the urinary system and reproductive systems.

What questions should I ask a healthcare provider?

• How common is ED disorder?
• How can I know I have erectile dysfunction?
• What is the cause of erectile dysfunction?
• What are the treatment options for ED?
• Can erectile dysfunction (ED) lead to other conditions which can affect my sexual health? 
• Can I achieve orgasm in the case of ED?
• Can you give a reference for any sex therapist?
• Can you recommend any support group I can join to meet people with the same problem?

How does it feel when you can’t get an erection?

You may get different emotions when you are unable to achieve an erection. It is expected to feel embarrassed, ashamed, guilty, and frustrated. All such aspects may lead to long-term emotions like depression and anxiety. But don’t live with such feelings. ED is a common issue, and through proper ED treatment, you will be able to overcome it.

What can I do if my partner has erectile dysfunction?

ED is a sensitive topic for many people to discuss. Help your partner in such a condition, ask him to visit the doctor if he is facing an ED disorder.

• Involve in open communication: Let your partner know you care for their feelings and well-being. Spend time with your partner to speak with him.
• Remind your partner that they are not alone: ED is treatable and common. Support groups and therapists will help your partner share feelings.
• Encourage healthy habits: Encourage them to exercise regularly, eat healthy foods, and avoid foods that can cause ED, like fried and greasy foods, food rich in salt, animal fats, etc.
• Remain Informed: Support your partner by informing him about up-to-date ED information and treatment options.
• Go with your partner for appointments: Help your partner come up with questions, take note of them, and ask them to the healthcare provider, which can help them make a diagnosis. 
• Express your feelings in another manner: Sexual intercourse is not the only way to show your love for your partner. You can show this through physical contact, like holding hands, spending time with him, back rubs, etc. Be calm and become a good listener. 

Conclusion 

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is common, especially in older age. You may feel sad due to the problem, but you don’t have to feel unhappy or embarrassed with ED. It is just a simple way for your body to show that something is wrong. Involve in open conversation with your healthcare provider to get proper ED treatment. 

Your doctor may suggest a blood or complete blood count test to diagnose the underlying condition which causes ED. Contact Metropolis Lab and get yourself tested with the best technicians. We also provide the test from home facility