Erectile dysfunction (erectile dysfunction) is a problem that affects many men and can have a variety of causes, from psychological to physical. It is crucial to identify the cause and tailor treatment accordingly. Here are the main treatments for erectile dysfunction that can help improve your sex life.
1. Pharmacological treatment
The most common form of treatment for erectile dysfunction is oral medication, which increases blood flow to the penis to achieve and maintain an erection. Popular potency drugs include:
- Sildenafil (Viagra): Stimulates blood flow to the penis, enabling an erection to be achieved following sexual stimulation.
- Tadalafil (Cialis): It acts similarly to sildenafil, but its effects can last longer, up to 36 hours.
- Vardenafil (Levitra): Another popular drug for erectile dysfunction, with similar effects to sildenafil.
These drugs work by blocking an enzyme called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5), which leads to vasodilation and increased blood flow to the penis.
2. Treatment of physical causes
Erectile dysfunction can be a symptom of other diseases, such as:
- Hypertension: Blood pressure treatment can improve erectile function.
- Heart diseases: Proper treatment of heart disease can improve blood circulation and increase the ability to achieve an erection.
- Diabetes: Controlling blood sugar levels is key, as diabetes can lead to nerve and blood vessel damage, which worsens erectile function.
- High cholesterol levels: Treatment of hypercholesterolaemia can improve blood flow and sexual function.
In the case of physical causes of erectile dysfunction, treatment of the underlying disease can restore normal sexual function.
3. Lifestyle changes
Many men experiencing erectile dysfunction can improve their situation through lifestyle changes. Healthy habits that can help are:
- Smoking cessation: Smoking negatively affects blood circulation, which can worsen erection problems.
- Avoiding excessive alcohol consumption: Alcohol abuse can affect sexual function.
- Healthy diet: A diet rich in fruit, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats can improve overall health and blood circulation.
- Regular physical activity: Exercise can help improve blood circulation, which is key to getting and maintaining an erection.
- Stress reduction: Stress is one of the main causes of psychological erectile dysfunction. Relaxation exercises, meditation and stress management techniques can help improve sexual function.
4. Psychotherapy and behavioural therapy
Erectile dysfunction with psychological causes, such as anxiety, depression, stress or low self-esteem, can be effectively treated with psychotherapy. Therapy can help to deal with emotional problems that affect sex life. Sometimes therapy also includes the partner, which can improve communication and understanding in the relationship.
5. Other treatment methods
- Hormone therapy: In men with low testosterone levels, hormone therapy may be considered to help improve erectile function.
- Penile injections: In some cases, doctors may prescribe injections to dilate the blood vessels and help achieve an erection.
- Vacuum pumps: Mechanical devices can be used to increase blood flow to the penis. Once an erection is achieved, a clamping ring is used to maintain the erection.
- Surgical operations: When other treatments fail, penile implant surgery is an option. This is a last resort, used in men who do not respond to other therapies.
6. Low intensity shock wave therapy (LI-ESWT)
Shockwave therapy is a modern method that stimulates blood circulation and can help treat erectile dysfunction. It is a non-invasive procedure that is becoming increasingly popular.
Summary
Erectile dysfunction is a common problem that can be treated effectively. It is important that men do not underestimate this problem and consult a doctor. The appropriate treatment depends on the cause of the problem - pharmacotherapy, lifestyle changes, psychological therapy or treatment of underlying medical conditions can all help to improve sexual function.
More information can be obtained from our doctors by starting a medical e-consultation at any time.
