Erectile dysfunction is characterized by the recurring or inconsistent inability to achieve or retain an erection that is satisfactory for the purpose of sexual intercourse. Most cases of erectile dysfunction can be treated successfully but it is essential to understand this common male sexual condition and bust some of the prevalent myths associated with this condition.
Myths surrounding erectile dysfunction
Myth – You should accept erectile dysfunction as a natural part of the process of ageing.
Fact – Erectile dysfunction is quite common in older men, but it is certainly not a ‘natural’ part of the aging process. It is a medical condition that needs to be resolved like any other disorder.
Myth – You should not worry about getting erectile dysfunction if you are under the age of 40.
Fact – Erectile dysfunction can affect you at any age. Increasingly, younger men are developing conditions that are known to contribute to erectile dysfunction, such as high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease.
Myth – Erectile dysfunction can be effectively treated with oral medications.
Fact – Oral medications work for most men, but not everyone can take them. Talk to your doctor for a prescription for oral impotence medications such as Viagra.
Myth – Herbal products can help treat erectile dysfunction effectively.
Fact – The efficacy and safety of herbal impotence treatments has not been clinically studied or proven. You should consult your doctor before commencing any erectile dysfunction treatment.
Diagnosis of erectile dysfunction
Your doctor may need to conduct a variety of tests in order to determine whether you are suffering from erectile dysfunction. This is because erectile dysfunction can be caused due to a variety of reasons, and the specific cause needs to be identified before the treatment begins. Your doctor will need to perform a thorough physical examination and review of your medical history. You will also be asked to provide details of your sexual and personal history. This may sound intrusive but the diagnosis depends on how honestly you answer the doctor’s questions. Some of the tests prescribed to diagnose erectile dysfunction include:
- Complete Blood Count (CBC test)
- Kidney and liver function tests
- Lipid profile
- Thyroid function test
- Blood hormone studies
- Urine analysis
- Duplex ultrasound
- Nocturnal penile tumescence (NPT)
- Vasoactive injection
- Penile biothesiometry
- Dynamic infusion cavernosometry
- Cavernosography
- Arteriography
- Bulbocavernosus reflex
- PSA test
- Best erectile dysfunction treatments
Making crucial lifestyle changes can often help in resolving erectile dysfunction problems. These changes include adopting a healthy diet, exercising regularly, as well as cutting back on alcohol, smoking and recreational drugs.
– Couples who visit a sex therapist or counsellor may find the key to treating erectile dysfunction by addressing the underlying psychological issues that may be responsible for this condition.
– Prescription erectile dysfunction medications can be prescribed by your doctor if erectile dysfunction has been diagnosed. These medications are known to cause mild to severe side effects and should never be taken for recreational purposes.
– Vacuum pumps, also known as penis pumps, offer short term results for treating erectile dysfunction and for increasing penis size.