242. Overcoming Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
More than 30 million men in the U.S. have some form of failure to have or maintain an erection. Erectile dysfunction (ED) is when this occurs in 25 percent or more attempts. With ED, the penis does not get enough blood flow to remain rigid enough for satisfying sexual relations. Most of the time, this is due to a physical cause, such as diabetes, a blood vessel disease, a side effect of some prescribed drugs, or a side effect of prostate surgery. Only 10 to 20 percent of the time, psychological conditions, such as stress, anxiety, or low self-esteem is the cause. In about 5 percent of cases, the cause is unknown.
If you have a frequent or ongoing problem with ED, consult a physician. Your physician can do a complete exam to rule out, diagnose, and/or treat medical conditions which may cause ED.
Medical ways to treat ED include a vacuum pump device, a penile implant or injections, and medicines, such as sildenafil (brand name Viagra). Before having medication prescribed, let your doctor know if you take other medicines, especially nitroglycerin or other heart medicines. Take medication for ED only as prescribed.
Also, don’t smoke, don’t use street drugs, and don’t have more than two drinks a day. Avoid over-the-counter supplements, creams, and various gadgets marketed as cures for erectile dysfunction (ED). They don’t work. And check with your doctor before taking herbs (Actra-Rx, ginko biloba, yohimbe, Siberian ginseng, Yilishen), which are marketed to treat ED.
