Erectile Dysfunction; What Causes A Lopsided Erection
Erectile dysfunction affects the lives of many men and their partners. While erectile dysfunction commonly affects middle aged men, typically over age 65, it can occur at any age. A common reaction caused by erectile dysfunction is an uneven or lopsided erection in which the back part of the penis enlarges, but the front part remains small. This is caused by minor abnormalities of the penis during an erection. These minor abnormalities are not serious and do not typically require evaluation or treatment. However, if an abnormality that is severe enough to interfere with sexual activity, or sexual dysfunction, should be evaluated by a urologist.
The penis contains two spongy structures, which are cylinder shaped. When a man becomes aroused sexually the nerve impulses increase blood flow into both of the cylinders. The increase of blood flow causes an erection by expanding, straightening, and stiffening the penis. A lopsided erection is when an erection of unequal fullness is caused when the cylinders do not fill and expand properly. The most common cause of a lopsided penis is Peyronie’s Disease. Peyronie’s Disease results from scarring the lining of the cylinders. Other less common causes of a lopsided erect penis include congenital abnormalities caused by trauma, surgery, or radiation.
Erectile dysfunction can often be one of the symptoms of other underlying medical conditions. Many types of drugs may also cause erectile dysfunction, including blood pressure, antihistamines, antidepressants, tranquilizers, and ulcer drugs have been known to produce erectile dysfunction as a side effect. Between 10 to 20% of erectile dysfunction cases are believed to be caused by stress, guilt, anxiety, depression, low self esteem, and sexual failure. Smoking may also be another cause of erectile dysfunction as it affects blood flow in veins and arteries. Hormonal abnormalities such as low levels of testosterone may be another cause. The cause and severity of the condition are the most important factors in determining the best treatment of combination of treatments available. If erectile dysfunction is the result of a medical condition, the cost of treatment may be covered by insurance.
Erectile dysfunction can also be caused by physical and emotional factors. These factors coexist of physical diseases and disorders. Diseases of the lungs, liver, kidneys, heart, nerves, arteries, or veins can also lead to erectile dysfunction. Diabetes is also a large cause of erectile dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction is normal if experienced periodically, but if it should last for more than two months or is a recurring problem, a physician should be consulted for a referral to a doctor that specializes in erectile problems. Whether the cause of erectile dysfunction is the cause of physical factors or psychological factors or a combination of both, it can become a source of mental and emotional stress for both a man and his partner. Communication between the man and his partner is vital in treating erectile dysfunction. Regardless of the cause of such an abnormality, treatment is available. By discussing your concerns with your doctor or urologist treatment options can be determined.
