Herbal Remedies For Erectile Dysfunction
While many herbs and supplements claim to treat ED, none have been scientifically proven to work. 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 medicines that increase blood flow to the penis include sildenafil, vardenafil and tadalafil. Alprostadil is also available as an injection or suppository.
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. 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. PDE5 inhibitors are very effective at treating ED. This is especially true when combined with behavioural change. 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 find it difficult to seek help.
A person with erectile dysfunction is more likely than others to suffer from other health issues, such as diabetes or heart disease. ED is one of the first symptoms that these conditions may be causing problems with the blood flow to the genital area.
When diagnosing ED, your doctor will ask you questions about your medical history and your sex life. The questions may seem private or embarrassing, but they are necessary to find the cause and treatment for 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 devices and surgical insertion of a penile prosthesis.
Diagnosis
Your doctor will examine you and ask about your sexual history to diagnose erectile dysfunction. Your doctor may ask your partner about their experiences. Your doctor will do tests to see if your symptoms are caused by an underlying health problem, such as diabetes, heart disease, low testosterone or high blood pressure.
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. Changing medications or cutting back on alcohol and other substances can improve your symptoms. Treatment for psychological issues can also help.
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. 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 may also ask if you have emotional problems such as depression or anxiousness. He or she may suggest you visit a therapist. He or she may recommend that you exercise, eat healthily and avoid substances which can cause erectile malfunction.