Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED), which is also commonly referred to as impotence, is characterised by an inability to get and sustain an erection that is sufficient for sexual intercourse. It is a common condition, with estimates suggesting that around half of men aged between 40 and 70 have it to some extent. The problem can be very distressing for sufferers, affecting their confidence, stopping them from enjoying a full sex life and potentially harming their relationships.

ED can have a range of causes, both physical and psychological. The most common physiological triggers are health problems that result in a narrowing of the blood vessels that lead to the penis. For example, diabetes, high blood pressure and raised cholesterol can all increase men’s chances of developing ED. Other physical risk factors include hormonal imbalances, injury and surgery. Psychological causes can include low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, stress, anxiety and depression.

If ED persists for more than a few weeks, it is important to book an appointment with a doctor. This is because erectile problems can be the first indication of more serious underlying medical issues, so they are not something that should be ignored.

Impotence treatments focus on addressing the cause of the problem. For example, tackling health problems such as diabetes or heart disease can resolve ED. Similarly, if the condition has a psychological trigger, counselling sessions or cognitive behavioural therapy may help. There are also now a range of targeted ED medicines available that can prove highly effective. Most of these contain PDE5 inhibitors, which work by temporarily raising blood flow to the penis. Examples including sildenafil, which is better known under the brand name Viagra, tadalafil (sold as Cialis), avanafil (sold as Spedra) and vardenafil (sold as Levitra).

Impotence treatments focus on addressing the cause of the problem. For example, tackling health problems such as diabetes or heart disease can resolve ED. Similarly, if the condition has a psychological trigger, counselling sessions or cognitive behavioural therapy may help. There are also now a range of targeted ED medicines available that can prove highly effective. Most of these contain PDE5 inhibitors, which work by temporarily raising blood flow to the penis. Examples including sildenafil, which is better known under the brand name Viagra, tadalafil (sold as Cialis), avanafil (sold as Spedra) and vardenafil (sold as Levitra).

Impotence treatments focus on addressing the cause of the problem. For example, tackling health problems such as diabetes or heart disease can resolve ED. Similarly, if the condition has a psychological trigger, counselling sessions or cognitive behavioural therapy may help. There are also now a range of targeted ED medicines available that can prove highly effective. Most of these contain PDE5 inhibitors, which work by temporarily raising blood flow to the penis. Examples including sildenafil, which is better known under the brand name Viagra, tadalafil (sold as Cialis), avanafil (sold as Spedra) and vardenafil (sold as Levitra).