According to published studies, 21% of Australian males over 45 age will experience erectile dysfunction, and the frequency is higher among older men. The requirement for ED management intervention goes beyond the effects of the disorder on the patient and their partner’s sexual health to include major health concerns.
ED affects millions of men worldwide, so Australian Pharmacy wrote this informative blog post with simple, helpful advice about its causes and treatments.
What is Erectile Dysfunction?
Erectile disorder is the most not unusual sexual problem men. It impacts as much as 30 million guys globally, consisting of many in Australia.
ED is the inability to establish, maintain, or achieve a hard erect condition for sexual activity. Although erection problems are common for guys, people who get worse or arise frequently during intercourse should seek medical care.
Erectile Dysfunction: Common Causes
Most Australian men suffer from erectile dysfunction or incapacity. This is stressful and might impair someone’s health. Knowing the reasons of erectile disorder facilitates patients manage their situation.
ED is most usually related to cardiovascular disorder-associated penile blood deliver discount. Heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and atherosclerosis are distinguished hazard factors for erectile disorder. According to Heart Foundation Australia, one in six Australians have cardiovascular disorder, which is a main reason of demise and contamination. Heart health helps to prevent erectile disorder and heart disorder.
Physical Health Issues
Cardiovascular Diseases
ED is most normally related to decreased blood flow to the penis, regularly due to cardiovascular issues. Conditions including atherosclerosis (hardened or blocked arteries), heart disease, and high blood pressure are common precursors to erectile disorder. According to Heart Foundation Australia, cardiovascular disease impacts one in six Australians and is a major cause of death and disability in the country. Managing coronary heart health is not only critical for decreasing the hazard of heart disorders but also for preventing ED.
Diabetes and ED
Another significant physical health issue contributing to ED is diabetes. Diabetes Australia estimates that around 1.7 million Australians have diabetes, and men with diabetes are 1.5 to 2 times more likely to experience ED. High blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels and nerves that control erection, leading to erectile dysfunction. Regular monitoring and management of blood sugar levels are crucial for those with diabetes to help mitigate this risk.
Psychological Factors
Stress and Emotional Health
Psychological factors, including stress and emotional concerns, are significant triggers for ED. The mental state of an individual plays a crucial role in sexual arousal and performance. Prolonged stress can interfere with hormones, potentially reducing libido and preventing an erection.
Relationship Issues
In many cases, relationship problems due to stress, poor communication, or other concerns can lead to ED. It’s important for individuals facing such issues to consider seeking guidance from relationship counsellors or therapists. According to Relationships Australia, counselling services can assist with these personal challenges, thereby potentially alleviating ED symptoms.
How Erections Work
The Process of Achieving an Erection
During sexual arousal, nerves release chemicals that increase blood flow into the penis. This blood enters two erection chambers in the penis, composed of spongy muscle tissue known as the corpus cavernosum. These chambers are not hollow but rather spongy tissues that relax and trap blood to initiate an erection.
The Mechanics of an Erection
Understanding the mechanics of an erection reveals the physiological complexities of male sexual health. As the corpus cavernosum fills with blood, spongy tissues trap this, increasing pressure and causing the penis to become firm. Post-orgasm, the body signals the muscles to contract, releasing the blood and allowing the penis to return to its normal state. Andrology Australia explains that this phase is as important as the erection itself, as it brings the penis back to its normal state. It’s normal for penis size to fluctuate with emotional and environmental changes.
Symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction
The primary symptom of ED is difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse. This can manifest in several ways, including:
- Inconsistent or infrequent erections
- Difficulty maintaining an erection throughout intercourse
- Reduced firmness during erection
When to Seek Medical Attention for Erectile Dysfunction?
If you’re experiencing ongoing problems with erection, it’s crucial to seek medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes and address any underlying health conditions that might be contributing to ED. Here are some indicators that a doctor’s visit is recommended:
- Frequent or persistent erectile difficulties
- Difficulty achieving any erection at all
- Erectile problems causing significant emotional distress or impacting your relationship
- Sudden onset of ED, especially if you haven’t experienced it before
Causes of Erectile Dysfunction
ED can arise due to various physical and psychological factors. Some of the most common causes include:
Vascular problems: Reduced blood flow to the penis is a significant contributor to ED. This can be caused by conditions like atherosclerosis, high blood pressure, or diabetes.
Neurological conditions: Diseases affecting the nerves responsible for erection, such as stroke, spinal cord injury, or multiple sclerosis, can lead to ED.Hormonal imbalances: Low testosterone levels can impair erectile function.
Psychological factors: Stress, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues can all contribute to ED.
Lifestyle habits: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and drug use can increase the risk of ED.
Certain medications: Some medications, including antidepressants and blood pressure medications, can have ED as a side effect.
Risk Factors for Erectile Dysfunction
Certain factors can increase your risk of developing ED. These include:
- Age: As men age, the risk of ED naturally increases.
- Underlying medical conditions: Diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol are all associated with a higher risk of ED.
- Obesity: Carrying excess weight can contribute to vascular problems that affect erectile function.
- Smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and restricts blood flow, which can lead to ED.
- Inactivity: A sedentary lifestyle can negatively impact erectile function.
- Prostate cancer treatment: Surgery and radiation therapy for prostate cancer can damage nerves and blood vessels in the penis, leading to ED.
Potential Complications of Untreated Erectile Dysfunction
While ED itself isn’t a life-threatening condition, it can have significant consequences for your physical and mental well-being. Here are some potential complications:
Relationship stress: ED can lead to difficulties in maintaining intimacy and cause stress within a relationship.
Low self-esteem: Erectile problems can negatively impact a man’s self-confidence and self-esteem.
Depression and anxiety: The emotional burden of ED can contribute to depression and anxiety.
Cardiovascular disease: Research suggests a link between ED and an increased risk of heart disease.
Overview of Erectile Dysfunction Treatment Options
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a complex condition, but fortunately, there are multiple treatment options available. Healthcare professionals in Australia can develop a personalised treatment plan based on the specific causes of your ED, your overall health, and personal preferences.
Medications for Erectile Dysfunction
PDE5 Inhibitors
One of the most commonly prescribed treatments for ED in Australia involves phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. These medications help enhance the effects of nitric oxide, a natural chemical that your body produces. Nitric oxide relaxes muscles in the penis, which increases blood flow and helps to initiate and maintain an erection.
Viagra
Viagra is one of the most popular choices for treating erectile dysfunction. It is available in several forms, including generic and professional versions, providing flexibility in terms of cost and dosage.
Cialis (Tadalafil)
Cialis has longer-lasting effect, stays in the body for up to 36 hours, offers a prolonged period of potential sexual activity compared to other ED medications.
Levitra (Vardenafil)
Levitra is another ED medicine for men with diabetes or hypertension.
Kamagra
Kamagra Oral Jelly contains high level of consciousness and it is more convenient than pills for those patients who have swallowing difficulty.
These listed medications are safe and dont have any side effects. According to the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) in Australia took many safety and efficiency tests to meet Australian public health needs.
Therapies
Other medical treatments for ED include:
Vacuum erection devices which create a vacuum around the penis and extract the blood into it. Penile Implants is a surgery implants devices on each penis side. These implants are inflated, or (bendable) rods and surgery enhances the bloodstream to the penis with vascular reconstructive surgical treatment can improve ed.
Natural and Daily Life Adjustments
Lifestyle modifications can significantly impact the effectiveness of treatments for ED. Key actions include:
- Nutritional adjustments
- Regular physical activity
- Effective management of stress and psychological conditions
- Smoking cessatio
- Relationship counseling
Choosing the Right Treatment for You
The choice of treatment for ED depends on several factors, including:
- The severity of your ED
- The underlying cause of your ED
- Your overall health
- Your personal preferences
If you have questions, concerns, or preferences about treatment and outcomes, be honest with the doctor. They can advise you based on your situation and help you choose the right medicine.
Australian Pharmacy: Your Partner in Men’s Health
Australian Pharmacy understands that discussing ED might be humiliating for customers. Our website will discreetly display ED information and items for men. Independently practicing pharmacists can answer all enquiries about future actions. It’s important to remember that no one is alone in this world and that others suffer too. Regaining sexual health and living a fulfilling sexual life requires meticulous treatment and support.