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Erectile Dysfunction: It’s Time To Address This Health Issue!

By Dixit Arora +2 more

Not many people like to talk about sexual illnesses. But the fact is, these illnesses can happen to anyone and it is important to have some knowledge regarding them so that we can identify them and get the help that we need.  

One common sexual disorder among men is erectile dysfunction or ED. Is it very common in India? Yes, more than 10 million men in India are diagnosed with it every year. Fortunately, this condition is treatable. Read on to know the basics about this illness.

Erectile Dysfunction: It's Time To Address This Health Issue - PharmEasy

What is erectile dysfunction?

Some men are unable to get an erection or sustain it for long enough to engage in sexual intercourse. Not getting an erection at times of stress or grief is quite natural. But ED is a condition when the issue becomes chronic, meaning one always finds it difficult to get an erection.  

ED can have a traumatic impact on a man’s mind as it makes him think he is impotent. It can also give rise to intimacy issues in a relationship.  

Erectile dysfunction is a widespread condition in males over 40 years of age all over the world. It has a variety of causes and is often treatable. Left untreated, it can be the source of severe emotional stress to both patient and partner.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

How will you know for sure that you have ED?

Since the absence of an erection can sometimes be a result of emotional turmoil, how can you tell if it is simply a temporary problem or sexual dysfunction?

If you have ED, you will notice these symptoms –

  • Low levels of libido or loss of sexual interest
  • Premature ejaculation
  • Inability to achieve an orgasm

If these symptoms continue for more than 2 months, you most likely have erectile dysfunction.

Also, if you are a chronic patient, you are more susceptible to ED.

It’s true that ED is most common among older men, but ageing isn’t the only contributing factor to the condition. A wide range of other factors can cause ED symptoms in men of all ages.

Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.

  Why is erectile dysfunction a cause of concern?

Not only does erectile dysfunction cause problems in a relationship, but it could also be a sign of an underlying health condition. ED can result from one of these illnesses that require immediate treatment-

  • Heart problems
  • Blocked blood vessels
  • High levels of bad cholesterol or LDL
  • Hypertension
  • Diabetes  
  • Parkinson’s disease
  • Sleep disorders
  • Multiple sclerosis

What raises your risk of getting ED?

Here are a few factors that make erectile dysfunction more likely-

  • Tobacco use- Tobacco narrows your blood vessels and reduces the supply of blood to your penis (an erection is only possible when a large volume of blood travels to the penis).
  • Obesity also reduces blood flow to the penis.
  • Prostate cancer surgery or radiation therapy.
  • An injury that causes damage to the nerves or arteries connected to the penis.
  • A surgery that affects the spinal cord or the nerves.
  • Drinking too much or consuming drugs.

ED also has psychological factors. If you’re unhappy or distrustful in your current relationship, it may contribute to ED regardless of your age.

Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.

How is erectile dysfunction diagnosed?

Firstly, a healthcare expert will ask you detailed questions about your symptoms and your medical history. Avoid self-medicating and always consult a doctor beforehand if you are suffering from any chronic ailments. 

Is there any test that helps detect ED? Your doctor may ask you to do a few tests like blood tests, sonography or the Nocturnal Penile Tumescence test.

Also Read: What is Blue Balls: A Medical Perspective on the Myth and Reality

Is ED curable?

Thankfully, erectile dysfunction can be managed. If the cause of this disorder is psychological, then sexual counselling may help. Talking with a therapist will help you overcome those mental blocks that are preventing you from getting an erection.  

If the cause of this disorder is some medicines that you are taking, your doctor may decrease the dose of these or change the medication.

In case there are other causes, you may be prescribed medicines that will improve blood flow to the penis and make an erection possible. These medicines may have serious side effects and should only be taken after consulting a doctor. 

Based on your underlying condition, medication can be herbal or allopathic. You can decide which you want to opt for and talk to your healthcare provider about any history of allergy to medicines (if experienced in the past).

Treatment can also comprise therapy. It’s very important to note here that Erectile Dysfunction is nothing to be ashamed of. With the right treatment, you can have a normal and happy sex life.   

Also Read: Foods That Naturally Help You Last Longer In Bed: A Complete Guide

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

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