Answers For Erectile Dysfunction

The inability to achieve an erection or the inability to maintain one is the definition for "erectile dysfunction". It is not uncommon for males to experience being "off" once in a while because stress or lack of sleep can have a detrimental affect on performance but when a male experiences difficulty with having an erection on a regular basis it is a concern. Achieving an erection is important for sexual pleasure and intimacy in a relationship as well as for the purpose of reproduction. Therefore problems in this area, can lead to dissatisfaction with sex, problems in a relationship and the inability for a couple to have a biological child.

There are several known causes for erectile dysfunction. Most causes have either medical or lifestyle issues that can be resolved so that sexual function can return. It is important to be able to determine accurately what exactly the cause for the dysfunction is.

The cause is discovered by way of a medical appointment with a medical doctor or an urologist. At this appointment a medical history will be taken that will include not only the symptoms of the problem, but also what medications including non-prescription drugs have been used.

Most chronic erectile problems are caused by a physical problem. There are also psychological issues that may be the cause or may contribute to the erectile dysfunction.

Physical Causes:

In order for successful erection to be achieved and maintained there is a series of physical factors that must happen. The brain, nerves and blood vessels must all do their parts at the correct time. The cause is rarely in the penis, but usually involves one of the other factors mentioned.

The majority of the time it turns out that the cause is either the heart or blood vessels. Medications that are being taken for cardiac or blood pressure can also contribute to the problem. As also can recreational drugs such as alcohol, and nicotine. These substances can inhibit the needed flow of blood to the penis. They may also distract the man from the concentration required to achieve an erection.

Even once a physical cause is pinpointed, continued negative thinking regarding ability to perform can contribute to the issue. Anger, nervousness, feelings of depression and being anxious can all contribute to the pressure to perform which may add to the problem.

Lifestyle changes will certainly be discussed during the medical appointment.

If you smoke or chew any tobacco products you will be informed about how this habit can be contributing to the problem and encouraged to break the habit. Likewise if you drink alcoholic beverages you will also be advised to stop doing so. Any illegal drug use will also be discouraged.

You will be asked about your exercise activities and helpful information will be given if needed. Regular physical exercise can increase blood circulation and help you to be physically fit and also to have the physical stamina needed to achieve successful sexual activity.

Maintaining a healthy diet that includes proper vitamins and minerals for males will also be discussed because your body needs proper nutrition in order to function well.

You will undergo a physical examination that will assess whether or not there are any visible signs of any physical abnormalities that could cause erectile dysfunction.

Your doctor may also order some laboratory tests to help uncover the cause. One test may be to determine if you have erections during your sleep, which will help rule out physical causes for your problem. If you do have erections while you sleep, then the cause is not a physical one.