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.
The patient’s medical history or sexual history will help to distinguish between problems with erection (climax), ejaculation, and orgasm. Oral medications that increase blood flow in the penis include vardenafil, sildenafil and Tadalafil. Alprostadil is also available as an injection or suppository.
Causes
Erectile dysfunction affects many men, particularly as they age. It can cause embarrassment and may lead to a lack of sexual desire, which can affect relationships. It is important to discuss your symptoms with your doctor and determine the cause.
ED is caused by conditions that interfere with blood flow to your penis. Some of these include diabetes, heart disease, vascular problems (such as peripheral neuropathy) and some medications. Depression is also associated with a decrease in libido and can be a contributing factor.
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 has a positive effect on both the patient and the partner. Medications that act as PDE5 inhibitors can be very effective in treating ED, particularly when combined with behavioural changes. However, if initial treatment fails to restore erections, the underlying cause should be investigated.
Symptoms
Men with ED have difficulty maintaining an erection that is firm enough to engage in sexual activity. It can affect their quality of living, causing strained relationships, feelings of shame, and guilt. They may have difficulty seeking help.
A person with erectile dysfunction is more likely to have other health problems, such as heart disease or diabetes. ED can be one of the first signs that these conditions are causing problems with blood flow to the penis.
Your doctor will ask questions about your medical background and your sex history when diagnosing ED. These questions may be embarrassing or private, but are necessary to determine the cause and treatment of your problem. Your doctor may also order lab tests, perform a physical examination and/or refer to a Urologist. The most common treatments for ED are PDE5 inhibitors, oral medications that can improve blood flow 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 reveal the levels of hormones such as testosterone andphosphorous. A urine test can look for a health problem that may cause ED, such as diabetes and high blood sugar.
Medications that reduce blood flow to the penis, such as blood pressure medicines and antidepressants, can cause erectile dysfunction. Changing medications or cutting back on alcohol and other substances can improve your symptoms. 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 start with a physical exam of your genital area, checking your testicles and the nerves in the penis. Your doctor may want to know about your family history of erectile disorder. And he or she will ask questions about your sexual history and how your symptoms have 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 might suggest that you see a therapist. And he or she will recommend you exercise, eat healthy foods and avoid substances that can cause erectile dysfunction.