A variety of medical conditions can contribute to the decline of a man's sexual health.  Conditions such as; diabetes, alcoholism, heart problems, depression, stress and/or anxiety can contribute to erectile dysfunction.  In some cases erectile dysfunction (ED) can be a causative factor to other conditions, such as depression, stress and anxiety.  ED is defined as the inability of a man to achieve and/or maintain an erection sufficient for his sexual needs and/or the needs to his partner.  Some men experience episodic incidents of ED and others experience chronic and complete ED.  Frequently, the occurrence of ED whether episodic or chronic can lead to problems with the man's self esteem, which adds stress on the relationship, which then contributes back to futher incidents of ED.   In 2002 approximately 22 million men were treated for ED.  It is also estimated that many men who experience ED fail to seek treatment.

 

Incidence of ED will increase with age, however ED is not part of the normal aging process and men who experience ED should be encouraged to seek medical attention. Chronic ED affects about 5% of men in their 40's and them may increase to 15-25% by the age of 65.  Transient or episodic ED affects as many as 50% of men between the age of 40 and 70.

 

The physiological process of erection begins in the brain and involves the nervous and vascular systems.  Neurotransmitters in the brain (epinephrine, acetylcholine, nitric oxide) are some of the chemicals that initiate the process.  Physical or psychological stimulation (arousal) causes nerves to send messages to the vascular system which results in significant blood flow to the penis.  Two arteries in the penis supply blood to erectile tissue and the corpora cavernosa, which become engorged and expand as a result of the increased blood and pressue.  Because blood must stay in the penis to maintain rigidity, erectile tissue is enclosed by fibrous elastic sheathes (tunicae) that cinch to prevent blood from leaving the penis during erection.  When stimulation ends, or following ejaculation, pressure in the penis decreases, blood is released and the penis returns to normal size.

 

TREATMENTS:

Several medications are on the market, which assist with obtaining and maintaining an erection.  Medication management does require routine medical follow up.  Evaluation and management of contributing medical and mental health conditions such as; diabetes, cardiac problems, depression, anxiety; evaluation and changes in life style such as exercise, weight loss, alcohol intake, reduction in stress.  Aids include penile rings; Surgical options may include penile implants.

 

If you, or your spouse or significant other has experienced Erectile Dysfunction, we encourage you to contact our office at 425-275-5555.  Virtually all ED is potentially treatable.