A Guide to Understanding Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

Having erection difficulty is common and happens from time to time in people. If it becomes an ongoing issue, seek medical help. Erectile dysfunction (ED) is often a result of underlying health conditions. Treating them can help reverse the problem. In other cases, erectile dysfunction treatments in the form of medication, lifestyle changes and direct therapy are available. 

What is Erectile Dysfunction? 

Let’s learn what erectile dysfunction is. It refers to the inability to have and sustain an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse.  

Types of erectile dysfunction: 

Primary Erectile Dysfunction:

This is a rare condition in which a man is always unable to get or keep an erection. 

Secondary Erectile Dysfunction:

This is a common condition and happens in men who once had normal erectile function. 

Causes of Erectile Dysfunction 

There are various causes of erectile dysfunction which can be grouped as follows: 

Physical Causes: 

• Cardiovascular Diseases 

• Diabetes 

• Obesity 

• High Blood Pressure 

• Hormonal Imbalances 

• Chronic Kidney Disease 

• Neurological Disorders 

Psychological Causes: 

• Stress 

• Anxiety 

• Depression 

• Relationship Issues 

Lifestyle Factors: 

• Smoking 

• Alcohol consumption 

• Lack of exercise 

• Poor diet 

Whatever your erectile dysfunction cause is, the doctor can identify it by learning about your medical history and can recommend suitable treatment.  

Symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction 

Below are the most common persistent erectile dysfunction symptoms: 

• Difficulty Achieving an Erection 

• Difficulty Maintaining an Erection 

• Reduced Sexual Desire  

Diagnosing Erectile Dysfunction   

Medical History 

The doctor will ask if you have a history of certain health conditions that can lead to erectile dysfunction. These include heart diseases, diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, hormonal imbalances, chronic kidney disorder and neurological conditions. The doctor will also ask if you had any previous sexual dysfunction or pelvic surgery or used to take anticonvulsants, antipsychotics, antidepressants, diuretics, beta-blockers and antihypertensives.  

Physical Examination 

In this examination, the doctor will carefully assess your testicles, penis and the sensation of your nerves.   

Blood Tests 

Your blood sample is collected and sent to a laboratory to check for indications of low testosterone levels, diabetes, heart disorders or other health problems. 

Urine Tests  

These tests help to identify any signs of underlying health problems like diabetes.  

Ultrasound 

A specialist carries out this test. The professional holds a transducer (wand-like tool) over the blood vessels that supply your penis. The device produces a video image to show whether you have any blood flow blockages. Sometimes, together with this test, the specialist also injects certain medications into the penis to stimulate blood flow and create an erection. 

Psychological Examination 

You may be asked if you have stress, depression or other psychological factors that cause erectile dysfunction to screen for them.  

Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction 

Lifestyle Changes 

Exercise:

Moderate to vigorous aerobic activity can help improve blood flow and erectile dysfunction, lose weight, and reduce stress. Less strenuous regular exercise or simply increasing your activity level may also lower the risk of erectile dysfunction. Ask your doctor about a proper exercise plan. 

Diet:

The Mediterranean diet that emphasises whole grains, legumes, veggies (especially leafy greens), fruits and healthy fats such as olive oil helps reduce the risk of having erectile dysfunction and improves male virility. Meat, poultry, nuts and legumes are also beneficial. 

Weight Management:

Being overweight is a risk factor for erectile dysfunction. Therefore, exercise regularly and maintain a healthy diet to manage your weight. 

Quit Smoking:

Smoking can also contribute to this condition. So, it’s a must to quit smoking if you experience ED. If you have difficulty quitting, consider nicotine replacement like OTC lozenges and gum. Otherwise, ask the doctor to prescribe a medicine to help you stop smoking. 

Limit Alcohol:

Alcohol consumption can also result in erectile dysfunction. Heavy intake of alcohol or taking specific illegal drugs can cause long-term health conditions and worsen ED.  

Medications: 

Oral Medications:

Oral medications that can successfully treat ED in several men. 

These erectile dysfunction treatment medications intensify the effects of nitric oxide (naturally produced in the body and can help the muscles in the penis to relax). This boosts blood flow and helps you to have an erection when you try to get it. 

First, sexual stimulation is required to cause nitric oxide to be released from the penile nerves. These medications will enhance that. The medications differ in dosage, side effects and duration of their effectiveness. Possible side effects include stomach upset, backache, visual changes, headache, nasal congestion and flushing. 

The doctor will take into account your specific situation to decide which medication is appropriate for you. Also, the doctor will tell you how much dosage is suitable for you and the expected time for the medication to show prominent results. 

Hormone Therapy:

Erectile dysfunction in some men is caused or worsened by low testosterone levels. If that happens, the doctor recommends testosterone replacement therapy as the first treatment approach or combines it with other therapies.  

Conclusion 

Oasis Fertility has a large team of fertility experts who always welcome any questions about reproductive health. So, feel free to consult us if you experience erectile dysfunction. Our experts are highly experienced in treating various cases of infertility and reproductive problems, including offering erectile dysfunction treatments. Moreover, we have state-of-the-art equipment with cutting-edge technology to perform complex treatments. We are also renowned for offering assistive reproductive technology procedures like the In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) treatment process to help couples with fertility problems to conceive successfully.  

FAQs 

Q: Can Erectile Dysfunction Make You Infertile? 

A: Erectile dysfunction (ED) itself does not directly cause infertility. However, it can contribute to difficulties in achieving conception due to the inability to maintain an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. Treating underlying health conditions and managing ED can improve the chances of successful conception. 

Q: Can Men with ED Have Kids? 

A: Yes, men with erectile dysfunction can have kids. While ED can make it challenging to engage in sexual intercourse, there are various treatment options available, including medications, lifestyle changes, and assisted reproductive technologies like In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) that can help achieve successful conception. 

Q: Is ED Permanent in Men? 

A: Erectile dysfunction is not always permanent in men. Many cases of ED are treatable, and the condition can often be reversed with appropriate medical interventions, lifestyle changes, or therapy. The prognosis depends on the underlying cause of the ED and the individual’s overall health. 

Q: Can You Release Sperm with ED? 

A: Yes, men with erectile dysfunction can still release sperm. Although achieving and maintaining an erection might be challenging, ejaculation and sperm release can still occur. Treatments for ED can help improve erectile function, making it easier to engage in sexual activity and potentially conceive.