facts and overview
Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is another word for Impotence
Impotence, also known as Erectile Dysfunction, or “ED,” is the inability to achieve and maintain an erection suitable for intercourse.
Erectile Dysfunction affects MANY men – about 50% over the age of 50
Estimates suggest that as many as 30 million men in the United States alone may suffer from Erectile Dysfunction. Most don’t seek help with a doctor, deciding instead to either live with it, or seek help though a variety of unproven, ineffective treatments.
There are many causes Of Erectile Dysfunction
ED is often associated with smoking, alcohol, trauma, and underlying medical conditions such as diabetes or vascular disease. It can also be a side effect of certain medications. It is important to have a physician determine the cause so that the appropriate treatment can be prescribed.
Erectile Dysfunction Can Be Successfully Treated
The vast majority of cases of impotence can be successfully treated, regardless of cause and regardless of age. Even if one treatment is not effective, there are other alternative therapies that may work.
A Variety Of Treatment Options Are Available
Those experiencing Erectile Dysfunction can work with their doctor in selecting the treatment option that is best for them. The following section will go over many such options, and provide links to other sites that may have more detailed information. Please don’t hesitate to consult your health care professional to discuss these in more detail. We’re here to help!
Overview – Erectile Dysfunction:
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability of a man to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for his sexual needs or the needs of his partner. Most men experience this inability from time to time, often caused by fatigue, medications, alcohol, or other issues. Once a man experiences erection troubles for greater than 6 months, it is considered a medical condition. Left untreated, erection problems can cause emotional and relationship problems, and often leads to diminished self-esteem. It can effect men in many areas of their lives, not just in the bedroom. It has many causes, and is very treatable.
How often does it occur?
An estimated 30 million men in the United States experience chronic erection problems, but only 10-15% seek treatment. It may affect up to 50% of men between the ages of 40 and 70.
Anatomy of the Penis
The internal structure of the penis consists of two cylinder-shaped rods of muscle tissue called the corpora cavernosa. These run through the left and right sides of the penis. The urethra is a tube on the underside of the penis that expels urine and ejaculate. The two corpora each have an artery carrying blood into the penis called the cavernosal artery. They are very small, about as wide as the lead in a pencil. Under the surface of the penis are thousands of tiny veins, or venules. These lie sandwiched between a tough fiber layer of the penis caused the tunica albuginea and the spongy corpora.
Physical Mechanism of an Erection
The process of erection begins in the brain and involves the nervous and vascular (blood vessel) systems. Sexual stimulation causes nerves to fire, transmiting a signal down from the brain to the penis. This nerve signal tells the normally tight spongy muscular tissue in the penis to relax, and the two cavernosal arteries to expand. As blood rushes into the penis, it swells, squeezing the veins between the tough tunica and muscular corpora. As the veins are compressed, they flatten, stopping the outflow of blood. Blood continues to rush in, but can?t leave. Pressure rises in the penis and it becomes rigid Any condition that causes blood to come into the penis more slowly, or causes blood to leak out, will lead to a poor erection. When stimulation ends, or following ejaculation, the body releases chemicals to tighten up the penile arteries and the spongy tissue. This puts less pressure on the veins, and they open. Blood leaves the penis, and the pressure drops. Finally, the penis resumes it’s normal shape and size.