Millions of men suffer with erectile dysfunction, also known as ED. While it can be embarrassing to talk about, this medical condition is actually common. The good news is that it can be effectively treated with drugs and other medical options. If you are dealing with erectile dysfunction, the first thing you need to do is learn more about it.
What Is Erectile Dysfunction?
Simply put, erectile dysfunction occurs when a man has consistent and repeated problems getting or keeping an erection. An older term still often used to describe this medical condition is impotence. Without treatment, ED can make it difficult to have intercourse, which can affect personal relationships.
Many men have occasional trouble. Being tired, stressed or drunk are common reasons why a man would have trouble getting or keeping an erection. However, these conditions are temporary and the erectile problems will disappear.
With erectile dysfunction, the problem may start out as an occasional issue. But it becomes more frequent and persistent. Time does not make the condition go away or become less frequent. That is when you know you have a problem that you need to talk about with your physician or other healthcare professional.
Is ED a Part of the Ageing Process?
Older men tend to develop erectile dysfunction more than those of a younger age. However, it is not a natural part of growing older.
Some things related to sexual performance do change as a man grows older. It does take longer for most men to get an erection. A man may need more stimulation, such as touching and stroking, to gain and keep an erection. Recovery time between erections is often longer than in the younger years. But having persistent issues with getting an erection or keeping one is not a natural consequence of ageing.
If it is not a part of the ageing process, why is ED so common in older men?
Older men have a range of medical conditions that can affect sexual function. Treating the underlying medical condition can help restore the erectile functionality in some men. This isn't necessarily the case.
What Are the Treatment Options for ED?
The first step to getting treatment for erectile dysfunction is a talk with your physician. Your physician will get a patient history that includes determining when the problem started and what else is going on in your life. The physician will run tests to see if there are any underlying medical conditions. With all the information provided, the physician will determine the best treatment option.
If an underlying medical issue is found, the physician will treat that first. Treatment may involve making life choice changes or taking medications. In some cases, treating the underlying problem will clear up the erectile problem. But that make take some time.
In the meanwhile, the physician may prescribe a medication to help with the erectile dysfunction. Many medications are available for men suffering with erectile dysfunction.
ED Medications
Some medications currently available for erectile dysfunction include:
Follow the physician's recommendations for using these drugs very carefully. They need to be taken between 30 and 60 minutes before you plan on having sex. The effects can last from four to 36 hours, depending on the medication. The total time the medication is effective often allows for more than one sexual encounter.
Taking one of these medications will not give you an instant erection. You will still need the desire, stimulation and general good health you would normally need for sex. The drug just helps clear some physical restrictions that may be interfering with becoming and staying stimulated.
