Erectile dysfunction affects millions of men. The term
"impotence" has traditionally been used to signify the inability
of the male to attain and maintain erection of the penis
sufficient to permit satisfactory sexual intercourse. However,
this term has been superseded by the more precise term "erectile
dysfunction", which is used to denote the inability of the male
to achieve an erect penis as part of the overall multifaceted
process of male sexual function; hence, impotence is a part of
erectile dysfunction. For simplification, we will use the term
"impotence" as though it were synonymous with erectile
dysfunction.
There are two types of impotence: total and partial. Total
impotence is where the man is unable to achieve an erection
during any sexual activity. This is generally the result of
damage to the sex organs by traumatic events at an early age.
Partial impotence is where the man may have success
infrequently, or may only achieve a partial erection, or may
only be impotent in certain circumstances.
There is enormous pressure on a man to 'perform' during
sexual intimacy, and the impotent male often feels as if he is a
failure. A vicious cycle can be produced, since psychological
stress will prevent an adequate erection, which in turn creates
a great deal of anxiety. It is important to know that many men
suffer from transient episodes of impotence at some point in
their lives. This is normal. Unless the impotence is chronic or
worsening in frequency or degree, don't worry. On the other
hand, there is no need to suffer endlessly as treatment may be
of help. Only you can tell, but if it is affecting your
relationship on anything other than an occasional basis, then
get help.
Impotence is not a disease in itself, but the result of some
other malady. Men suffering from impotence can be separated into
one of four groups: physical, psychological, physical &
psychological, and unknown.
Physical
Factors
This form usually develops gradually over time and is
strictly the cause of problems with how your body is
functioning, or to chemicals you are ingesting (such as those
experienced due to the Effects of Drugs & Alcohol). A normal
erection requires the co-ordination of many events. If the
nerves to the penis are disrupted, a man cannot start an
erection. If there is not enough blood flowing to the penis, it
will not be rigid. If blood leaves the penis too rapidly, the
erection cannot be maintained.
Some physical conditions associated with impotence are:
·
Heart disease
·
Vascular diseases
·
Diabetes
·
Multiple sclerosis
·
Alcoholism
·
Smoking
·
Abdominal surgery
·
Spinal cord or nerve damage
·
Low hormone levels
·
A
side effect of some prescription drugs, narcotics, and sedatives
Psychological Factors
Psychological impotence usually has a very sudden onset and
is the result of mental conditions where the man is unable to
concentrate on sexual activities. Some things that can lead to
this form of dysfunction are:
·
Excessive stress concerning finances, work, life, etc.
·
Relationship woes
·
Depression
·
Anxiety about perceived inadequate sexual performance
·
Other psychiatric conditions
Physical &
Psychological Factors
Just like it sounds, the man fitting into this category is
suffering from a combination of both physical and psychological
causes of erectile failure.
Unknown
In the vast majority of cases, there is a cause of impotence
that can be determined. Only a small percentage of men suffer
impotence of which the cause cannot be determined.
Treatment
Erectile dysfunction can usually be treated successfully, so
there is no reason that most man suffering from this condition
may not enjoy a fulfilling and intimate relationship with their
partner.
Once a cause has been established, a treatment program can be
initiated. Because there are often several reasons contributing
to a man’s impotence, a combination of treatments is usually
adopted. Treatments available are:
·
Changing prescription medication if it is determined to be the
cause
·
External vacuum devices
·
Intracavernous injections
·
Hormone therapy
·
Oral medications, (e.g. Viagra, Cialis, Yohimbine, etc.)
·
Psychotherapy and counselling
·
Penile prosthetic implants
·
Improving sleep and relaxation (most common cause in middle-aged
men is tiredness)
If you believe you may be suffering from erectile dysfunction
please contact a medical professional immediately. A physician
will be able to properly inform & treat you with available
options, or refer you for Sex Therapy where you can get a
specialist diagnosis of your condition.
Effects of Drugs & Alcohol
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