A Guide to Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is commonly known as male impotence. This physical disorder occurs when the male penis is unable to become erect enough for efficient performance during sexual intercourse. By itself, impotence can also be a reflection of various issues that are related to reproduction and sexual intercourse. Examples include loss of sexual craving and issues with ejaculating or reaching orgasm. When the term erectile dysfunction is used here, it excludes the other issues mentioned above.

When a man has an erection, blood flows into and is captured by, spongy tissue in the penis. Sexual arousal often initiates this process, as the brain sends signals to nerves located in the penis. Even if the person is aroused, when erection is not possible or is difficult, this is an indication of erectile dysfunction.

There are many different reasons for this happening and some of the causes can be medically treated. Diabetes and cardiovascular disease are the most common causes. Prostatectomy surgery can result in traumatic neurological problems. Hypogonadism and the side effects of drugs can also result in hormonal imbalances, which can cause erectile dysfunction.

When treating erectile dysfunction, no formal testing is done. However, blood tests are usually administered to check for underlying diseases, such as diabetes. If the patient is out of shape, does not eat healthy foods or has cardiovascular diseases like peripheral vascular disease, impotence may be related to these factors. Checking if the patient has had an erection is a simple way of determining if the erectile dysfunction is physiological or psychological.

The reality is that 1 out of 10 males will experience impotency issues at some point in their lifetime.