Impotence

What is Erectile Dysfunction? Erectile dysfunction (ED), or impotence as it is also known, is defined as the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse. It is important not to worry about it, as it is a perfectly natural occurance, affecting most men at some point in their lives.

Erection problems can vary: some men suffer occasional erectile failure, and others experience severe erection problems, which is defined as chronic ED. Many physical and psychological elements can enduce ED, but one thing remains constant for every man experiencing this problem - worry.

What causes erectile dysfunction?

Physical health issues including atherosclerosis (high blood pressure), diabetes, kidney disease and alcoholism account for as many as 75% of chronic ED cases; whereas psychological factors including performance anxiety, stress and depression account for the remaining 25%. A list of known underlying physical conditions associated with erectile dysfunction include:

Diabetes Vascular disease Side effect of medication Hormone imbalance Neurological condition Pelvic trauma, surgery, radiation therapy Peyronie's disease Venous leak

It is important to distinguish the underlying cause to get a good understanding of the problem, as you may be able to cure the problem without resorting to invasive treatment. In fact, 95% of ED cases are treatable when the right treatment is used to fix the problem.

		What happens during an Erection? The erection process is a complicated series of psychological and physical interactions: neurotransmitters in the brain are initiated upon arousal, causing nerves to send messages to the vascular system, which directs blood into the penis. Two arteries in the penis supply blood to the corpora cavernosa and surrounding erectile tissue, which become engorged and expand as a result of increased blood pressure. To maintain the erection, erectile tissue within the penis squeezes the veins (responsible for carrying blood back out) against the wall of the penis, to restrict the amount of blood escaping the penis. When sexual activity ceases, or after ejaculation, pressure in the penis decreases and the blood is released as normal.

What can I do to fix ED?

There are many treatment options available to you, including prescription drugs like Viagra, Cialis and Levitra (approved in the UK) that successfully treat 85% of ED cases. If you wish to investigate this option, please fill in a free medical consultation with one of our specialist doctors. The service is free; there is no obligation to buy any treatments that the doctor may suggest; and your personal details are kept confidential.