What is erectile dysfunction? (ED)

Описание: Erectile dysfunction is the inability to achieve or maintain an erection satisfactory for intercourse and is very common among adult men. Dr. Daniel Reznicek discusses the definition of erectile dysfunction, potential causes and risk factors, and what treatments are available for men: https://pacificnorthwesturology.com/e...

Erections require psychological or sexual stimulation which then through nerves, signals penile smooth muscles to relax and increase blood flow. The increased volume of blood then blocks blood draining from the veins. This should remain erect until after ejaculation. An interruption in any of these steps will lead to erectile dysfunction.

Causes of erectile dysfunction include diabetes, high blood pressure, prostate cancer treatments, medications, nerve disorders or spinal cord injuries, among others.

Treatment of erectile dysfunction is performed in a step-wise fashion. First line therapies include oral phosphodiesterase inhibitors (PDEi) such as sildenafil, tadalafil, vardenafil, and avanafil. These medications help increase blood flow to the penis by increasing a certain neurotransmitter.

If oral medications do not work, or they are contraindicated, the next step includes options such as a vacuum erect device, intercavernosal injections, or intraurethral suppositories.

A penile prosthesis is also an option if medications have failed. This procedure is a permanent ED treatment and has the highest satisfaction rate among all treatment options.