Treating Erectile Dysfunction Without Drugs

Herbal Remedies For Erectile Dysfunction

While many herbal and supplement products claim to treat ED in some way, they have not been scientifically proven. Some of them are not 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. 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 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 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. 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 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 than others to suffer from other health issues, such as diabetes or heart disease. ED can be one of the first signs that these conditions are causing problems with blood flow to the penis.

When diagnosing ED, your doctor will ask you questions about your medical history and your sex life. These questions may be embarrassing or private, but are necessary to determine the cause and treatment of your problem. Your doctor will also give you a physical exam, order lab tests and/or refer you 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

To diagnose erectile dysfunction, your doctor will ask about your sexual history and examine you. Your doctor may also ask your sexual partner about their experience. 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 involves injecting a medication into the penile area to induce an erection. It is then measured how long it lasted. The penile ultrasound test measures blood flow in the area. 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. And he or she will want to know what medical conditions you have, especially heart disease, diabetes and low testosterone levels. 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. He or she may recommend that you exercise, eat healthily and avoid substances which can cause erectile malfunction.