WHAT IS ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION ?

 

In Giftedhands  hospital and Laboratory , we have 4 drugs that can help you. It is 55k. We deliver it anywhere in the country.

## **Erectile Dysfunction (ED)**

**Erectile Dysfunction (ED)** is the persistent inability to attain or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance. It is a common medical condition that affects men of all ages but becomes more prevalent with advancing age. ED is not merely a sexual problem; it is often an early indicator of underlying systemic diseases.

### **Epidemiology**

Erectile dysfunction affects millions of men worldwide. Studies show that up to **50% of men over 40 years** experience some degree of ED, with prevalence increasing with age and the presence of chronic medical conditions.

### **Pathophysiology**

A normal erection requires the coordinated interaction of:

* Intact vascular supply

* Functional nerves

* Adequate hormonal levels

* Psychological readiness

Erectile dysfunction occurs when there is impairment in any of these mechanisms, particularly reduced penile blood flow, endothelial dysfunction, or disrupted neural signaling.

### **Causes of Erectile Dysfunction**

#### **Organic Causes**

* **Vascular disorders:** Hypertension, atherosclerosis, peripheral vascular disease

* **Endocrine disorders:** Diabetes mellitus, hypogonadism, hyperprolactinaemia, thyroid disorders

* **Neurological conditions:** Stroke, spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis

* **Medications:** Antihypertensives, antidepressants, antipsychotics

* **Lifestyle factors:** Smoking, excessive alcohol use, obesity, physical inactivity

#### **Psychogenic Causes**

* Anxiety and depression

* Performance anxiety

* Relationship conflicts

* Stress and emotional trauma

*Many patients have a combination of organic and psychogenic factors.*

### **Clinical Presentation**

* Difficulty achieving or sustaining an erection

* Reduced rigidity or duration of erection

* Decreased sexual confidence

* Associated reduced libido or ejaculatory disorders

### **Diagnosis**

Evaluation of erectile dysfunction includes:

* Detailed medical, sexual, and psychosocial history

* Physical examination (cardiovascular, endocrine, and genital systems)

* Laboratory investigations:

  * Fasting blood glucose

  * Lipid profile

  * Serum testosterone

  * Prolactin and thyroid function tests (where indicated)

### **Management**

Treatment should be individualized and directed at the underlying cause.

#### **Lifestyle Modification**

* Smoking cessation

* Weight reduction

* Regular physical exercise

* Reduction of alcohol intake

* Optimal control of diabetes and hypertension

#### **Pharmacological Therapy**

* **Phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (PDE-5 inhibitors):**

  * Sildenafil

  * Tadalafil

  * Vardenafil

  * Avanafil

These drugs enhance erectile response by increasing penile blood flow and require sexual stimulation to be effective.

#### **Hormonal Therapy**

* Testosterone replacement therapy in confirmed hypogonadism

#### **Psychological Therapy**

* Counseling and cognitive-behavioral therapy for psychogenic ED

* Couples therapy where necessary

#### **Advanced Therapies**

* Vacuum erection devices

* Intracavernosal injections

* Penile prosthesis surgery (for refractory cases)

### **Prevention**

* Healthy lifestyle choices

* Early detection and treatment of chronic illnesses

* Regular medical check-ups

* Open communication with healthcare providers

### **Conclusion**

Erectile dysfunction is a treatable medical condition with significant physical and psychological implications. Early evaluation and appropriate management not only restore sexual function but may also prevent serious cardiovascular and metabolic complications.