Erectile Dysfunction Detail

What Is Erectile Dysfunction (ED)?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) occurs when a man has consistent and repeated problems sustaining an erection. Without treatment, ED can make sexual intercourse difficult. According to the Massachusetts Male Aging Study on sexual dysfunction, the problem can first emerge in a man as early as 40. Based on the study, an estimated 18-30 million men are affected by ED.

Symptoms of ED

Symptoms of ED include:

• Erections those are too soft for sexual intercourse.
• Erections that last only briefly.
• An inability to achieve erections.

Men who cannot get or maintain an erection (75% of the time that they attempt sex ) are considered to have erectile dysfunction.

Who Gets ED?

Sexual dysfunction and ED become more common as men age. According to the Massachusetts Male Aging Study, about 40% of men experience some degree of ED at age 40 compared with 70% of men at age 70. And the percentage of complete ED increases from 5% to 15% as age increases from 40 to 70 years. But this does not mean growing older is the end of your sex life. ED can be treated at any age.

The Mechanics of ED

An erection occurs when blood fills two chambers known as the corpora cavernosa. This causes the penis to expand and stiffen, much like a balloon as it is filled with water. The process is triggered by impulses from the brain and genital nerves. Anything that blocks these impulses or restricts blood flow to the penis can result in ED.

Causes of ED: Chronic Disease

The link between chronic disease and ED is most striking for diabetes. Nearly one out of every two men with diabetes experiences ED. Yet evidence shows that good blood sugar control can minimize this risk. Other conditions that may cause ED include cardiovascular disease, atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), kidney disease, and multiple sclerosis. These illnesses can impair blood flow or nerve impulses throughout the body.

Causes of ED: Lifestyle

Lifestyle choices that impair blood circulation can contribute to ED. Smoking, excessive drinking, and drug abuse may damage the blood vessels and reduce blood flow to the penis. Smoking makes men with atherosclerosis particularly vulnerable to ED. Smokers have almost twice the risks of ED compared to non-smokers. Being overweight and getting too little exercise also contribute to ED. Studies indicate that men who exercise regularly have a lower risk of ED.

Causes of ED: Surgery