Like any other couple, Siddharth and Nisha used to enjoy their sex life but since the past few months they were not happy with it. Nisha used to get upset because Siddharth showed a lack of interest during lovemaking. The real problem was that Siddharth couldn’t sustain his erections for long, thereby leading to a lack of interest. A concerned Nisha prodded Siddharth to opt for consultation. It was then that the couple realized that Siddharth was suffering from erectile dysfunction (ED.) They heaved a sigh of relief only after they were told that the condition after all, can be treated and they can soon enjoy a healthy sex life.
The doctor informed them that one of the main causes that led to erectile dysfunction in Siddharth was constant smoking.
So, what exactly is Erectile Dysfunction (ED)?
ED, said the doctor, is a problem that shows up when a person is unable to get an erection or finds it difficult to hold it for a long time. The reasons for erectile dysfunction are both- physical as well as psychological in nature. By now, Siddharth and Nisha, were intently listening to the explanation and it was then that Nisha asked as to what exactly were the physical causes that were involved.
Physical causes of Erectile Dysfunction
- Diseases like diabetes, hypertension, kidney diseases, or any neurologic diseases are known to be a potential cause for ED to take place.
- Medication for heart disease, sedatives, anti depressants, tranquilizers can also contribute towards ED.
- Injuries pertaining to spinal cord, pelvic area or brain, can lead to ED. If the nerves in the brain which are responsible for signaling the various parts of the body get damaged, as a result of injuries, then there are chances of improper erections.
- Excessive intake of drugs, alcohol and smoking together contribute towards erectile dysfunction as these habits tend to cause damage to blood vessels by restricting the flow of blood to the penile area.
- Hormonal imbalance can also cause erectile dysfunction.
Psychological causes of Erectile Dysfunction
- Fears pertaining to one’s sexual performance in bed and the ability to satisfy one’s partner can also many a times lead to ED.
- Again, stress, including workload, homely tensions, etc. also contributes to a dull performance in bed.
- Unwillingness, lack of mood, and sexual boredom.
Many men are known to experience problems in sustaining an erection at least once in their lifetime.
Apart from the causes, Siddharth and Nisha also came to know about the various treatment/ therapies which are available to overcome the problem. Doctor explained Siddharth that every ED case is different and so is the treatment that is used in curing it.
Treatments
- Oral treatments: These are effective for most of the cases. Drugs like Sildenafil (Viagra), Tadafil (Cialis) and Vardenafil (Levitra) which are used in oral treatments help in increasing the amount of blood thereby resulting in natural erection. It is advisable to use these drugs only under a doctor’s recommendation and guidance, as overdose can lead to many side effects.
- Many a time’s therapies including needle injection, hormonal replacement, vacuum therapy and penile implants show effective results in treating ED.
Ways to Manage
- A counselor will analyze a person’s lifestyle and accordingly advises him on the same. He will also help a person to clear doubts regarding his sexual problems.
- It is advisable to limit the smoking and drinking habit.
- Exercise regularly.
- Every one experiences stress, learn to relax and avoid taking alcohol to reduce stress.
- Be positive as it is the problem can be treated and be cured.
- Also reduce fatty foods which can cause the arteries to block which be the cause to restrict the blood flow in the body.
- A balanced and a fit lifestyle can go a long way in dealing with ED.
Approximately 90 million Indians suffer from erectile dysfunction but there is very little awareness about it. Many people are reluctant to discuss the problem with their doctors.
The key lies in coming out and shedding the inhibitions related to ED as it is not a disease but a condition which can be completely treated, but cannot be ignored.
Lifestyles are changing and so the occurrence of ED cases is no more a problem in older men but it is common in the age group of 30 to 50 too.
Men, remember! Ignorance is not always bliss!
