Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED), the inability to perform strongly during sexual encounters, is something that most men will experience at some time in their lives. Episodes of not being able to obtain, or sustain, a full erection for sexual performance are not unusual, beginning as early as the late teens and early twenties. These incidents are usually infrequent and no cause for concern as the problems will resolve themselves. Many things can cause occasional sexual problems: heat in the summer, too much alcohol, even excessive bike riding can cause a temporary problem.

Age related dysfunction is more likely in the male approximately 60 years and older. Men in this age group may be able to perform sexually, but may find that it takes longer and requires more stimulation to acquire an erection, and the erection may not be as firm and long lasting as in their youth. Age related dysfunction is usually associated with reduced levels of testosterone, a normal condition of aging. A healthy male can sustain sexual activity well into later years, though it may be less frequent and less vigorous than in the early years of their sexual maturity.

If ED becomes persistent it may adversely affect a man’s image of himself, and may cause problems with his sexual partner. Men should be aware that regardless of the frequency of ED it is not a disease. It is the symptom of another problem. On occasion ED could be the first indication that the suffering individual has another problem.

Some of the more common causes of ED are:

Non-physical: stress, anxiety, fatigue, depression, and negative feelings between you and your partner.

Physical factors: diabetes, heart or vein problems, prescription medications, surgery or trauma, hormonal disorders, alcoholism or substance abuse.

Whether the cause is psychological or physical, unless the underlying cause is found, an individual will continue to suffer episodes of dysfunction and they will generally occur more frequently and last longer as time progresses.

A male suffering more than an occasional occurrence of ED should seek medical advice. This is not just about sex, this is about overall health. What is causing the ED, and what treatments need to be started to cure the problem, both for continued health, and to return sexual activity, to the patient. Talk to your doctor about what is right for you.