What is Erectile Dysfunction (Impotence)?

Although there is typically a significant amount of confusion associated with a diagnosis of erectile dysfunction, it is most appropriately defined as the inability of a man to obtain an erection or maintain an erection for the purpose of sexual activity. Erectile dysfunction, which is commonly referred to as impotence, is considered to be an embarrassing topic for most men. The taboo nature of the medical problem often leads to affected individuals failing to seek guidance from their physician, but the truth is that the illness is not a normal part of the aging process. 

There are many physical causes of impotence, but some are much more common than others. Some of these physical causes include alcohol and drug abuse, head injuries, liver failure, kidney failure, and fatigue. In addition, some medical conditions often cause erectile dysfunction as well. Such medical conditions include diabetes, hypertension (high blood pressure), multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson’s disease. There are also many medications that report impotence as one of their commonly occurring side effects.

More common than the physical causes, there are also many emotional feelings and stressors that lead to erectile dysfunction. Individuals that are under a great deal of stress often report a higher degree of difficulty in achieving an erection. In addition, feelings of depression or low self-esteem can often make sexual activity frustrating and impossible. Many people are plagued with fears of rejection or inadequacy when it comes to performing, and these individuals also often must deal with impotence. Previous bad experiences with sex can also commonly cause impotence or erectile dysfunction.

There is no specific test designed to diagnose erectile dysfunction, but many doctors will obtain blood or urine specimens to first rule out any related diseases. A physical exam may not reveal anything relevant, but the physician and patient can normally discuss enough factors to decide if treatment is necessary.

The many treatments available for impotence often depend on what it is that is truly causing the difficulty. For some individuals, a simple change in their current medications may be necessary. Some patients with emotional feelings as the culprit are able to deal with the problem themselves. Certain rare cases may actually require some type of surgical procedure, but these are not very common. There are also many medications that are designed specifically to combat erectile dysfunction, but a physician should be involved in the decision to try any of them.

The most common myth associated with erectile dysfunction is that it is a normal part of getting older. While it may be true that more stimulation may be required with age, the inability to truly achieve an erection is normally indicative of an underlying problem. There are many potential causes and some of them are quite easy to remedy, but an individual must first seek the appropriate guidance from their family doctor or urologist. Although the conversation with a physician may be slightly uncomfortable, it truly is much easier than dealing with the frustrating consequences of leaving impotence untreated.

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