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"The following blog article provides general information and insights on various topics. However, it is important to note that the information presented is not intended as professional advice in any specific field or area. The content of this blog is for general educational and informational purposes only.

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The content should not be interpreted as endorsement, recommendation, or guarantee of any product, service, or information mentioned. Readers are solely responsible for the decisions and actions they take based on the information provided in this blog. It is essential to exercise individual judgment, critical thinking, and personal responsibility when applying or implementing any information or suggestions discussed in the blog."

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Disclaimer

"The following blog article provides general information and insights on various topics. However, it is important to note that the information presented is not intended as professional advice in any specific field or area. The content of this blog is for general educational and informational purposes only.

Book consultation

The content should not be interpreted as endorsement, recommendation, or guarantee of any product, service, or information mentioned. Readers are solely responsible for the decisions and actions they take based on the information provided in this blog. It is essential to exercise individual judgment, critical thinking, and personal responsibility when applying or implementing any information or suggestions discussed in the blog."

Impotence, or erectile dysfunction (ED), refers to difficulties in getting and/or maintaining an erection. Studies by Burnett AL and several others demonstrate that over 50% of men aged between 40 and 70 experience symptoms of ED. Keep reading to learn about the symptoms and causes of this sexual dysfunction. 

Symptoms Of Erectile Dysfunction Or Impotence

Listed below are the common symptoms of impotence:

  1. Trouble keeping an erection firm

  2. Trouble getting an erection

  3. Reduced sex drive with a negative effect on your sexual performance

  4. Stress or performance anxiety about partnered sex

  5. Little to no response to sexual stimulation

  6. Not being able to conceive, that is, get your partner pregnant 

  7. Not getting nocturnal erections (nocturnal penile tumescence) regularly

 

Some of these symptoms might also be linked with symptoms of other sexual dysfunctions, such as premature ejaculation, anorgasmia, etc.

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Causes Of Impotence

Impotence, or ED, is usually caused by reduced blood flow to the blood vessels of your penile region. However, there is no one-size-fits-all reason when it comes to conditions concerning your sexual function, and impotence might be a result of multiple physical and psychological factors.

Physical Causes

  1. Vascular diseases

  2. High blood pressure

  3. Clogged blood vessels, or atherosclerosis

  4. Diabetes, or high blood sugar levels

  5. Obesity (this can also lead to poor body image and other psychological issues discouraging you from participating in sexual activities)

  6. Low levels of testosterone

  7. Peyronie’s disease, where scar tissues develop in and around the penis

  8. Prostate cancer, prostate surgery, or benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate)

  9. Injuries that impact the spinal cord or the pelvic region

  10. Substance abuse, which includes tobacco, alcohol, and recreational drugs

  11. Metabolic syndrome, is a medical condition characterised by high blood pressure, high cholesterol and insulin levels, and an increase in body fat around the waist 

Psychological Causes

  1. Mental health conditions like depression and anxiety can lead to ED. Plus, psychiatric medication, such as antidepressants, can have adverse effects on your sexual desire and make it difficult for you to maintain erections.

  2. Excessive stress can also lead to temporary impotence. Further, this can have a negative effect on your sex life, worsening any stress-induced symptoms.

  3. Underlying relationship problems can contribute to ED as well. However, if that is the only reason behind your impotence, clear communication and/or couple’s therapy might be the best solution for you!

Risk Factors

The following can increase the risk of erectile dysfunction:

 

  1. Medical conditions like vascular diseases or high blood pressure
  2. Psychological conditions, especially anxiety and depression
  3. The prolonged drug, tobacco, or alcohol usage
  4. Lower back injuries, especially those affecting nerves and arteries
  5. Certain prescription drugs, such as antidepressants and antihistamines

When Should You See A Doctor?

While ED is a common concern, it is important to seek medical treatment, especially in the following situations:

  1. If you have a medical history of cardiovascular diseases or have undergone vascular surgery, it is advisable to not take symptoms of ED lightly. Since ED has been linked to various heart diseases, untreated impotence might cause serious cardiovascular problems over time.

  2. If you regularly consume tobacco, alcohol, or any recreational drugs, consult your doctor. Clinical studies show that prolonged tobacco use hampers blood flow and can cause the reduced blood supply to your genitals. Seeking timely medical attention from your healthcare provider would help you figure out if your ED symptoms are linked to substance abuse, and weigh your treatment options.

An experienced doctor can help you by assessing your current symptoms and medical history. Share your sexual history with them and let them know if you are on any prescription medications. Your doctor might also conduct a physical examination to get a comprehensive understanding of your sexual health.

Treatment For Erectile Dysfunction

Common treatments for patients with erectile dysfunction include oral PDE-5 inhibitors (phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors), penile implants and injections, and drugs for increasing testosterone levels. Several lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, and exercises for your pelvic floor muscles might also be prescribed to aid with the management of erectile dysfunction.

 

Penile injection therapy is a safe and effective treatment option for men with ED who have not responded to other forms of treatment, such as oral medications or vacuum devices. It involves injecting medication into the base or side of the penis to achieve an erection. The medication used in this therapy causes the blood vessels in the penis to relax and fill with blood, resulting in an erection.

 

Vacuum erection devices (VED) or vacuum pumps are also effective in managing the symptoms of ED. The devices are made of a plastic tube, a pump, and a constriction band attached to one end of the tube. The tube is placed over the penis, and a vacuum is created with the help of the pump. This increases blood flow to the penis, while the band helps maintain it. Using a VED properly enhances erectile function and can improve your sex life.

 

For psychological causes, therapy for erectile dysfunction (individual and couples therapy) and counselling may be recommended to help with underlying concerns such as stress, anxiety, or depression.

 

It is important to consult with a medical professional or a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment option for you. With the right treatment, many men are able to improve their sexual function and regain their quality of life.

Summing Up

Impotence, or ED, is when someone is unable to get or maintain erections. The prevalence of erectile dysfunction is as high as 50%, making it a common sexual disorder among men. The symptoms of ED include not being able to get an erection, lower sex drive, performance anxiety, etc.

 

Impotence is usually a result of several physical and psychological factors. The physical factors include high blood pressure, high insulin, a family history of heart diseases, testosterone replacement therapy, and lower back, prostate, or spinal cord injury. ED is also considered one of the common side effects of certain prescription drugs. Depression, stress, and substance abuse have also been identified as causes of ED.

 

Medical treatment for erectile dysfunction consists of oral medications, inflatable implants for your penis, and injections. Lifestyle and dietary changes also help manage symptoms of ED. Get a physical exam from your healthcare provider to get a comprehensive idea of your symptoms and treatment options.

 

If you are doubtful that you might have ED or some other sexual disorder or are hesitant to visit your doctor because of the fear of being judged. Don’t worry because, at Allo Health, we bring you personalized, discreet, and judgment-free treatment at your fingertips – book an online consultation with one of Allo’s leading experts. Sexual health is as important as physical and mental health. In most cases, one consultation can go a long way.

Sexual health is as important as physical and mental health. In most cases, one consultation can go a long way. Personalised, discreet, and judgement-free treatment at your fingertips – book an online consultation with one of Allo’s leading experts.