Is it Erectile Dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction can be defined as the inability to initiate and have a persistence erection firm enough to have satisfying sexual intercourse with your partner. In relation to the increasing prevalence of chronic conditions, such as Diabetes, chronic complications such as Erectile Dysfunction are also on the rise.
How do erections come about?
- During sexual arousal, nerves release chemicals that increase blood flow into the male sexual organ. Blood then flows into two erection chambers in the male sexual organ, made of spongy muscle tissue (the corpus cavernosum). When an erection happens, the spongy tissues relaxes and traps The blood pressure in the chambers makes the male sexual organ firm, causing an erection.
Common causes of ED;
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Chronic kidney disease
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Hormonal issues
- injury from treatments including radiation therapy and prostate surgery.
Male sexual arousal is a complex process that involves the brain, hormones, emotions, nerves, muscles, and blood vessels. Erectile dysfunction can result from a problem with any of these. Likewise, stress and mental health concerns can cause or worsen erectile dysfunction.
With that in mind, if one decides to take an ED test, the doctor/specialist might recommend:
- Physical exam –This might include a careful examination of your sex organs and checking your nerves for sensation.
- Blood tests –A sample of your blood might be sent to a lab to check for signs of heart disease, diabetes, low testosterone levels and other health conditions.
- Ultrasound –This test is usually performed by a specialist in an office. It involves using a wand-like device (transducer) held over the blood vessels that supply the male sexual organ. It creates a video image to let your doctor see if you have blood flow problems.
- Psychological exam –Your doctor might ask questions to screen for depression and other possible psychological causes of erectile dysfunction.
Depending on the results of your diagnosis, the doctor will be able to recommend a treatment program suitable to you and this could be anything from physical exercises, psychological counselling, medication to even a surgery.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can also help manage ED;
- Lose weight if you’re overweight
- Stop smoking
- Eat a healthy diet
- Exercise daily
- Try to reduce stress and anxiety
It’s also advisable that before using any supplement, check with your doctor to make sure it’s safe for you — especially if you have chronic health conditions. Some alternative products that claim to work for erectile dysfunction can be dangerous.
Goodlife Pharmacy offers both medical support and in partnership with Health X, we have doctors who can help with ED cases. Reach out to us on WhatsApp (0)715 703 000.
Citations:
https://www.nature.com/articles/3900967
https://www.urologyhealth.org/urology-a-z/e/erectile-dysfunction-(ed)
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/erectile-dysfunction/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20355782
