Herbal Remedies For Erectile Dysfunction
While many herbal and supplement products claim to treat ED in some way, they have not been scientifically proven. Moreover, some of them may not be safe.
A patient’s medical or sexual history can help distinguish problems with erection, ejaculation and orgasm (climax). Oral medicines that increase blood flow to the penis include sildenafil, vardenafil and tadalafil. Injections or a suppository of alprostadil can also be used.
Causes
Erectile dysfunction affects many men, particularly as they age. It can be embarrassing and can lead to a loss of sexual desire. This can affect relationships. It is important to discuss the symptoms with your healthcare provider and determine the cause.
ED is caused when conditions interfere with the blood flow to your genitals. Diabetes, heart disease, vascular issues (such as peripheral neuritis) and certain medications are some of the causes. Depression can also be a factor in a decreased libido.
A psychological approach to ED involves revising the patient’s perspective and expectations around sex and helping them to gradually change behaviours that maintain sexual difficulties. Psychosexual therapy can have a positive impact on the wellbeing of both the patient and their partner. Medications that act as PDE5 inhibitors can be very effective in treating ED, particularly when combined with behavioural changes. If the initial treatment does not restore erections then the underlying cause must be investigated.
Symptoms
Men with ED have difficulty maintaining an erection that is firm enough to engage in sexual activity. It affects their quality of life, often resulting in strained relationships and feelings of embarrassment, shame or guilt. They may find it difficult to seek help.
A person with erectile dysfunction is more likely to have other health problems, such as heart disease or diabetes. ED is one of the first symptoms that these conditions may be causing problems with the blood flow to the genital area.
Your doctor will ask questions about your medical background and your sex history when diagnosing ED. The questions may seem private or embarrassing, but they are necessary to find the cause and treatment for your problem. Your doctor will also give you a physical exam, order lab tests and/or refer you to a Urologist. PDE5 inhibitors are the most common treatment for ED. These oral medications can improve blood circulation to the penis. Other options include vacuum constriction and surgical insertion a penile prothesis.
Diagnosis
Your doctor will examine you and ask about your sexual history to diagnose erectile dysfunction. Your doctor may also ask your sexual partner about their experience. Your doctor will perform tests to determine if the symptoms you are experiencing are due to an underlying problem such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease or low testosterone.
The injection test uses a medication to stimulate an erection and evaluate how long it lasts. The penile ultrasound tests measures blood flow. Blood tests can show the levels of certain hormones, such as testosterone and phosphorous. A urine test can look for a health problem that may cause ED, such as diabetes and high blood sugar.
Erectile dysfunction can be caused by medications that reduce blood flow in the penis. These include blood pressure medications and antidepressants. You can improve your symptoms by changing medications or reducing alcohol and other substances. Getting treatment for psychological problems can help, too.
Treatment
Depending on the cause, severity and your personal preferences, your doctor will discuss various treatment options. Some treatments increase erections through increased blood flow to the penis while others reduce symptoms of ED.
Your doctor will begin with a physical examination of your genital region, checking the testicles and nerves in your penis. Your doctor may want to know about your family history of erectile disorder. He or she will also ask about your sexual history, and how your symptoms changed over time.
Your doctor will ask about all medications, including supplements and over-the-counter medicines. He or she will also want to know about any medical conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and low testosterone. He or she will also ask whether you have any emotional problems, such as depression or anxiety. He or she may suggest you visit a therapist. And he or she will recommend you exercise, eat healthy foods and avoid substances that can cause erectile dysfunction.