Erectile dysfunction is an extremely distressing condition in men characterised by the inability to achieve or sustain an erection. It is a surprisingly common affliction, particularly amongst older men, and a high percentage of men suffer from impotence from time to time. However, if erectile dysfunction starts to become a persistent problem, it is a good idea to seek further help as the condition can sometimes be a symptom of a more serious underlying medical problem.

There are two main types of erectile dysfunction: physical and psychological, and the easiest way to determine which of these is the root cause of impotence problems is to check whether or not a man continues to have erections while he is asleep. If he does, his impotence issues are probably psychological in origin, whereas a man who is unable to have an erection whatsoever is probably suffering from a mechanical problem.

Physical causes of erectile dysfunction include hormonal problems and a narrowing of the blood vessels that supply the penis. Health problems such as diabetes, high cholesterol and blood pressure can all play havoc with a man’s ability to sustain an erection, which is why the problem of erectile dysfunction is far more common in older men but younger men also do suffer same issues for varied reasons, it could be stress, anxiety and depression or taking prescription medication can cause this problem.

In many cases, physical causes of erectile dysfunction are related to cardiovascular disease and seeking an early resolution to the problem is imperative before the condition becomes life threatening. Other physical causes of impotence include Parkinson’s disease, nerve damage, multiple sclerosis, tumours and spinal injuries. Hormonal causes of erectile dysfunction include thyroid problems and Cushing’s syndrome.

As well as underlying physical problems, erectile dysfunction can occur as a result of various external factors. Certain medications including anti depressants, blood pressure drugs and strong pain killers can cause impotence as an unwanted side effect, although this is normally something you would be informed of before being prescribed the medication by your physician. Excessive smoking, alcohol and drug use can also cause impotence.

What is the treatment for erectile dysfunction?

Any man suffering from persistent or long term erectile dysfunction is always advised to seek medical help to rule out any underlying health problems. In most cases, impotence caused by physical problems is very treatable and there are a large number of drugs that can be prescribed to help alleviate the symptoms of erectile dysfunction.

The active ingredients in drugs prescribed for erectile dysfunction are Phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors. These work by temporarily increasing blood flow to the penis, thus allowing sexual intercourse to take place. Drugs containing Phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors are commonly known by the brand names like Viagra, Cialis or Levitra or in other word E.D pills and are commonly available from physicians or on the Internet.

Oral drugs for the relief of impotence should only be taken under medical supervision as they can be dangerous for people suffering from underlying heart conditions. However, taken under the right circumstances, drugs such as Viagra and Cialis offer a lifeline to those men who are experiencing temporary erectile problems as they not only improve sexual performance, they only provoke erections when the man is sexually aroused.

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Author's Bio: 

Knowell Lowen
Health Attendant
Internet Marketer