Erectile Dysfunction : Frequently Asked Questions

What is impotence or Erectile Dysfunction (ED)?

Is impotence a disease?

Impotence/erectile dysfunction is not a disease. It is more often a symptom or side effect of something else. Some illnesses that cause impotence/erectile dysfunction are very serious. If you are suffering from impotence/erectile dysfunction consult with your doctor. If you have tried some treatments without success, talk to your doctor about other possibilities. Often this will lead to a referral to an impotence/erectile dysfunction specialist, usually a urologist.

Is impotence treatable?

Yes it is! Often the treatments are very successful. Sadly most men do not seek medical advice under the misconception that it is incurable. Even if the cause is not curable (i.e. high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, diabetes, etc) many men can have their erectile dysfunction treated.

For psychologically caused impotence/erectile dysfunction (around 15% of cases) the treatment is sexual or psychological counselling. This is especially effective if the patient has a cooperative partner willing to attend counselling with him. For physical or medical impotence (around 85% of cases), the most common treatments are oral drugs, penile injection, and penile implants.

How common is impotence/erectile dysfunction?

A surprisingly large number of men suffer from the condition. There is research that suggests that by the age of 60 nearly half of all men will have had at least one brush with impotence/erectile dysfunction. In the United Kingdom it has been estimated that 10% of adult men suffer from persistent impotence/erectile dysfunction and that equates to around three million sufferers and according to the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (NAMCS), around 22 out of every 1000 men in the United States sought medical attention for impotence/erectile dysfunction in 1999.

How do I discuss it with my partner?

Impotence/erectile dysfunction can irretrievably damage a relationship. Discussing how this is affecting both of you is very important and often leads to better communication and understanding between. Trying to deal with it alone is not the best way forward.

Isn't most impotence/erectile dysfunction a psychological problem?

The reality is that the causes of impotence/erectile dysfunction are only psychological in around 15%of cases. In the majority of cases, around 85%, it is caused by a physical or medical condition, like diabetes or high blood pressure.

What are the medical problems that can cause impotence/erectile dysfunction?

There are many medical causes of impotence/erectile dysfunction. Some are listed below:

• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• High cholesterol
• Vascular disease
• Multiple sclerosis
• Spinal cord injury
• Prostate problems
• Kidney problems

Surgery or radiation to correct cancer on the pelvic area (colon, bladder, prostate) can cause impotence/erectile dysfunction. Also medication, especially blood pressure medication and anti-psychotic drugs, can cause impotence/erectile dysfunction as a side effect.

Where can I go for help?

It is a good idea to consult with your doctor. This is because he is a professional who will either be able to help you or refer you to a specialist in the field. Also impotence can be caused by serious medical conditions. It is worthwhile have a check up to determine if this is the case for you .

Doesn't it only affect older men?

The truth is that impotence/erectile dysfunction can affect men of all ages. Statistics based upon recent research shows that over half of all men will experience impotence/erectile dysfunction at some stage of their life. In young men it is often a short-term problem and can be put down to stress or excessive drinking. If you have any concerns consult with your doctor.

What treatments are there for older men?

Consult with your doctor. Today's medication can successfully treat men of all ages.

Diabetes sufferers often suffer from impotence/erectile dysfunction. What treatments are available?

For diabetics treatment is easier and more successful if they watch their diet, exercise and keep their blood sugar under control. Many diabetics can be treated with oral medications. Others can be treated with vacuum therapy and some with penile injections. Penile implant surgery is also a choice for the diabetic and his partner.

Is there anything I can do to reduce the risk of impotence/erectile dysfunction?

A healthier lifestyle can often be beneficial and help prevent any further deterioration.

• Try to cut down or stop smoking.
• Try to exercise more. Take a walk instead of the bus or take the stairs instead of the lift. Even small changes can dramatically affect your health.
• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruit and vegetables and low in fat.
• If you drink more than the recommended amount try to cut down
• Recreational drugs can cause impotence/erectile dysfunction.
• If you lead a stressful life look at ways to limit the way this affects you. Make time for you to relax.

You have tried medication but it didn't work. Is your impotence/erectile dysfunction incurable?

No two men are the same and no two men will react to medication in the same way. What you have taken may not work for you but it does not mean that there is not a treatment that will.

For Further Information

Diagnosis
Causes
Treatment
How an erection Occurs
FAQ's