Let's Talk About Erectile Dysfunction

Most men will experience at least one episode of erectile dysfunction (ED) by the time they reach 40. Occasional ED is considered to be normal. Most of these occasional episodes are related to an emotional issue or relationship problem. Erectile dysfunction, even the occasional occurrence can lead to decreased self-esteem. The good news is that most erectile dysfunctional causes are treatable. There are both physical and nonphysical causes for ED.

According to the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey in 2002 approximately15 to 30 million men in the United States, experience chronic erectile dysfunction. As men age, they may experience more frequent episodes of ED.

Diseases such as chronic alcoholism, atherosclerosis, diabetes and kidney disease can increase a man's risk for ED. As much as 35% to 50% of men who have diabetes also have ED.

When a man experiences ED, his partner has a vital role in his treatment and recovery. Discussions regarding ED should happen between the involved partners.

The Internet evolution has brought about the medium for scammers and unfortunately many men have wasted their money on medications that are pushed online as cures for ED. The best way to deal with the issue is to find out what the cause of your ED really is. It could be that the cause is a physical problem or it could be a nonphysical cause or a combination of the two. The treatment is not always a medication, sometimes it is therapy, and sometimes surgical intervention is required and also a mechanical device may be the answer. Relying on someone online who does not know you or have any idea what is causing your erectile dysfunction to send you medication just does not make sense and is a waste of money. Seeking competent medical attention, for a diagnosis and treatment plan is the smart thing to do.

A medical doctor, or a urologist can take your medical and sexual history, complete a physical examination and order tests to help diagnose the situation for you. Once all the results are available you will have a chance to hear the results and the opinion of the doctor. If you do have erectile dysfunction, a treatment plan will be designed for you that is based on the cause of your ED, and the severity of it as well as your comfort level in completing the treatments.

Treatment may be a combination of medication, psychological therapy, surgery, implants, injections, or mechanical devices. The treatment plan will start out using the least invasive procedures as often times a change in lifestyle will correct the problem.

Sometimes ED is a symptom of a medical condition, so it is important that a doctor check out chronic episodes of erectile dysfunction.