Male Erectile Dysfunction

What is Male Erectile Dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction is a condition in which a man fails to get and sustain a firm erection during sex. The condition may cause stress, affect a person’s self-confidence and lead to issues in one’s relationship. Male erectile dysfunction may also be an indication of severe health conditions like heart diseases.

Symptoms

The symptoms of erectile dysfunction symptoms might include:

  • Problems in having an erection
  • Problems in sustaining an erection
  • Decreased sexual appetite

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Causes

Male erectile dysfunction may be caused by a combination of physical and psychological problems which include:

  • Anxiety
  • Stress
  • Heart diseases
  • Blockages in blood vessels
  • High cholesterol levels
  • High blood pressure
  • Diabetes
  • Obesity
  • Parkinson's disease
  • Drinking and Smoking
  • Sleep disorders
  • Prostate cancer
  • Injuries in the pelvic area

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Risks

The risk factors associated with erectile dysfunction include:

  • Age: Erections may take longer to develop and become less firm as a person grows old.
  • Diabetes: People with diabetes or heart conditions are at a higher risk of developing this condition.
  • Smoking and drinking: Alcohol and tobacco use can cause chronic health problems that eventually lead to erectile dysfunction
  • Drug Abuse: Long term drug abusers are more prone towards developing this condition
  • Obesity: Being obese or overweight increases the risk.
  • Medications: Certain drugs like antidepressants, antihistamines or other medicines that are used to treat high blood pressure, pain or prostate conditions may cause erectile dysfunction.
  • Psychological problems: Issues like stress, anxiety or depression are major risk factors for erectile dysfunction.

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Prevention

 

  • Treating diabetes, heart diseases or other chronic health problems.
  • Timely checkups and medical screening tests.
  • Quitting smoking, alcohol, and drugs.
  • Regular exercise.
  • Treating depression, anxiety and stress.

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How is it diagnosed?

The doctor confirms the presence of the disease by detecting the underlying cause which may be psychological or physical. The doctor conducts the following tests during diagnosis:

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How is it treated?

Treatment for erectile dysfunction depends on the cause and extent of the patient’s condition. The treatments for erectile dysfunction include:

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  • Medications

    Oral medications like Sildenafil, Tadalafil, Vardenafil and Avanafil help in relaxing the muscles in the penis which increases blood flow and allows the patient to develop an erection upon sexual stimulation. However, these medications cause side effects and should be consumed only after consultation.

  • Vacuum erection devices

    Vacuum erection devices consist of a hollow tube with a hand-powered or battery-powered pump. The tube is placed over the penis and the pump is used to create a vacuum that helps in getting an erection.

  • Surgical implants

    Surgical penile implants involve placing inflatable and malleable rods along the sides the penis. These malleable rods keep the penis firm but bendable. The surgical implants allow the patient to control the duration of an erection.

  • Regular Exercise

    Researchers suggest that moderate to strenuous exercise can improve erectile dysfunction. However, the benefits may vary from person to person.

  • Psychological treatment

    If the condition is being caused by stress, anxiety or depression or is creating problems in the patient’s relationship, the doctor might suggest psychological counseling. 

When do I contact the doctor?

One should consult a doctor if one experiences premature or delayed ejaculation, has diabetes, heart disease or any other chronic health conditions that might be associated with erectile dysfunction.

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How does Medanta provide care?

Medanta ensures expert care for its patients who are diagnosed Erectile dysfunction at the Institute of Kidney and Urology. The institute is a unique resource for patients who are suffering from any disorder associated with the urinary system, inc..

Get treated in specialised institutes and departments

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