What is Erectile Dysfunction (ED)?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to get or keep an erection firm enough to have sexual intercourse. It’s sometimes referred to as impotence, although this term is now used less often.

Occasional ED isn’t uncommon. Many men experience it during times of stress. Frequent ED, however, can be a sign of health problems that need treatment. It can also be a sign of emotional or relationship difficulties that may need to be addressed by a professional.

Erectile dysfunction Causes

There are many possible causes of ED, and they can include both emotional and physical conditions. Common causes include:

• cardiovascular disease
• diabetes
• hypertension, or high blood pressure
• high cholesterol
• obesity
• low testosterone levels or other hormone imbalances
• kidney disease
• increased age
• stress
• anxiety
• depression
• relationship problems
• certain prescription medications, such as those used to treat high blood pressure or depression
• sleep disorders
• drug use
• consuming too much alcohol
• using tobacco products
• certain health conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease or multiple sclerosis (MS)
• damage to the pelvic area through injury or surgery

What are Erectile Dysfunction drugs?

Patients suffering from erectile dysfunction should first be evaluated for any underlying physical and psychological conditions which are usually the case and 80% of all such cases are resolved in this stage. If such a treatment – treating the underlying conditions – doesn’t help, medication and assistive devices, such as pumps, can be prescribed.

The first thing you want to do is to get your doctor to make sure you’re getting the right treatment for any other related or even on-related health condition that could be causing or worsening your erectile dysfunction.

Depending on the causes and severity of your erectile dysfunction and any underlying health conditions you might have, various treatment options are available. Upon examination of all the risks and benefits of each treatment you and your doctor can decide on one depending on your preferences and treatment options available.

There are many oral medications that have been successful at treating erectile dysfunction in many men. Some popular ones are:

• Sildenafil (Viagra)
• Tadalafil (Adcirca, Cialis)
• Vardenafil (Levitra, Staxyn)
• Avanafil (Stendra)

All four medications enhance the effects of nitric oxide – a natural chemical your body produces that relaxes the tissues in the penis. This increases blood flow and allows you to get an erection in response to sexual stimulation.