Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a very common condition which causes a huge amount of stress and upset.

It is defined as the consistent inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance. In order to obtain a good erection, there needs to be a good interaction between the blood vessles, nerves, collagen and higher centres within the brain. Problems with any of these processes can lead to poor erections.

Causes of Erectile dysfunction:

Physical Factors: We know that ED is a marker of cardiovascular disease and men may be more at risk of future cardiac events. There are a number of underlying physical conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension, obesity, hormonal imbalances, neurological disorders, or certain medications which will increase the risk of ED.

Psychological Factors: Stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, performance anxiety, or past traumatic experiences can contribute to ED.

Lifestyle Factors: Unhealthy habits such as smoking, excessive weight, high levels of alcohol intake, substance abuse, and a sedentary lifestyle can increase the risk of ED.

Prevalence:

ED becomes more common as men age, but it can occur at any stage of life. 

A self-reported overall prevalence of erectile dysfunction in 52% of men aged 40–70 years. The prevalence increased with increasing age (increasing three-fold between men aged 40 and 70 years).

Treatment of Erectile dysfunction:

Lifestyle Changes: Adopting a healthier lifestyle can improve ED symptoms. This includes regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, and managing stress.

Medications: Oral medications such as sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), vardenafil (Levitra), and avanafil (Stendra) are commonly prescribed to help improve blood flow to the penis and facilitate erections.

Therapies: Psychological counselling can be very helpful, especially if ED is related to psychological factors or relationship issues.

Hormone Therapy: All men should have there hormones checked to ensure there is no hormonal imbalances (low testosterone) worsening the ED. If this is found to be the case, exogenous treatments such as gels, injections or tablets can be prescribed.

Vacuum Devices: Vacuum erection devices can help draw blood into the penis to create an erection, which is then maintained by placing a constriction ring at the base of the penis. This can be useful as an exercide and not necessarily for use during sex with your partner.

Penile Implants: In severe cases of ED that do not respond to other treatments, surgical placement of penile implants may be an option.