What Is Erectile Dysfunction?
Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is a condition where a man is unable to get or keep an erection that's adequate for vaginal penetration (sexual intercourse). Erectile dysfunction affects an estimated three million Canadian men over the age of 40 (EDHelp.ca).
“Erectile Dysfunction is one of the most common sexual difficulties men have,”says Dr. Stacy Elliott, Chair of the Canadian Male Sexual Health Council and a Sexual Medicine Physician active in The Men's Health Initiative of BC. “Probably about 20 to 30% of men across the age brackets have some difficulty, either mild, moderate or severe erection problems.”
Causes of Erectile Dysfunction
Some of the causes of erectile dysfunction include:
- Aging
- Disease or injury
- Medications such as anti-depressants and blood pressure drugs
- Stress
- Fatigue
- Anxiety, depression or low self-esteem
Underlying conditions such as diabetes, atherosclerosis, vascular disease and metabolic syndrome can be risk factors for erectile dysfunction, as can lifestyle choices like smoking, drinking alcohol (usually excessively), and being overweight.
Symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction
The symptoms of erectile dysfunction include:
- Trouble getting or keeping an erection
- Reduced sexual desire
Often, the symptoms of erectile dysfunction cause problems between a man and his partner, which encourages him to seek help.
Treatment for Erectile Dysfunction
Fortunately, there are many successful treatments available for erectile dysfunction. The most publicized treatment is Viagra, which was introduced to the market in March 1998. If you experience erectile dysfunction, the first step is to make an appointment with your family physician. He or she may order lab tests, perform a physical exam, or schedule an ultrasound to check blood flow to the penis before recommending treatment.
“There are many options we have that can assist somebody to get an erection adequate for penetration,” says Dr. Elliott. Treatment may involve making lifestyle changes, such as losing weight or quitting smoking, or switching to medications with fewer sexual side effects. Or, your physician may refer you to a sex therapist, prescribe ED medications, or suggest using a vacuum device to draw blood into the penis.
