Erectile Dysfunction
Sunday, July 6th, 2008
Despite years of progress and accumulated changes in the world view of each generation, it’s safe to say that sexual dysfunctions are still a sensitive issue for men. Shame and embarrassment made sexual dysfunction a taboo subject in polite company for a long time, which gave it a prominent position in the urban legends and endorsed dozens of folk remedies of doubtful effectiveness. Modern times have brought a certain change of attitude, but the issue is still a touchy one and best left alone. The launching of Viagra in the ‘90s and the huge marketing campaign has shed some light on erectile dysfunction, since men who found a solution in these pills are no longer ashamed to admit their past problems.
Erectile dysfunctions have both physiological and psychological causes. Many such causes are medically reversible, others are not. Any condition that interferes with the flow of blood through the body is bound to have a negative impact on a man’s sex life. Diabetes is a good example of a disease hampering blood flow, as are kidney diseases, chronic alcoholism, and multiple sclerosis. Men suffering from heart conditions or high blood pressure know that the drugs they take to avoid strokes are detrimental to what is known as a healthy sex life. Physical injury to the penis, spinal cord, prostate, bladder, pelvis or the nerves and arteries near the penis and which are responsible for erections can be a factor causing erectile dysfunction.
On the psychological side, depression and the drugs associated with it interfere with erections. The same goes for feelings of anxiety, insecurity, low self-esteem and shame. Stress is another major cause of temporary erectile dysfunction, especially in today’s world. A history of erectile dysfunction also triggers patterns of depression and inadequacy that lead to further sexual failures. All these physiological and psychological problems are compounded by vices. Heavy consumption of alcohol, tobacco or drugs is extremely bad for the cardiovascular system. Tobacco clogs the arteries and disrupts the flow of blood, while alcohol consumption makes it harder for a man to achieve both erection and orgasm.
Since the issue is very sensitive, it’s impossible to know how many men suffer from erectile dysfunction. It has been estimated that about 5 percent of 40-year-old men and 25 percent of 65-year-old men suffer from erectile dysfunction. The first major step to treating erectile dysfunction is to acknowledge the problem and to seek help. The second major step is to identify which approach suits the patient best. If the problem stems from feelings of depression and stress, then the patient should turn for a while to a life of relaxation, physical activity and socializing. Going to the gym or running in the park is a wonderful way to drive depression away because of both the physical exertion and socializing components involved. Working out is also a good way to strengthen the cardiovascular system and improve blood flow.
If the cause is a disease that hinders the flow of blood, doctors are likely to consider the use of vacuum devices or surgically implanted prostheses in order to achieve erection. People suffering from diabetes have few other options and have to turn to devices. But most people can get by with drugs that promote the flow of blood to the penis. Viagra, Levitra and Cialis are already famous for their effects, although men suffering from heart conditions should see a physician before taking any prescription or non-prescription medications. Other pills, like ProSolution Pills, are less radical in approach, but nearly as effective as the three brands mentioned above. Those who like a natural solution that has the advantage of originality, can also try penis exercises, like those made popular by the Penis Health program, to stimulate the flow of blood without any drugs or devices.
