Erectile Dysfunction
erectile dysfunction (ED) means that you cannot get and/or maintain an erection. In some cases the penis becomes partly erect, but not hard enough to have sex properly. In some cases, there is no swelling or fullness of the penis at all. Erectile dysfunction (ED) is sometimes called impotence but most of the time its called erectile dysfunction (ED).
Most men have odd times when they cannot get an erection. For example, you may not get an erection so easily if you are tired, stressed, distracted, or have drunk too much alcohol. For most men it is only temporary, and an erection occurs most times when you are sexually aroused. However, some men have persistent, or recurring, erectile dysfunction (ED). It can occur at any age, but becomes more common with increasing age. About half of men between the age of 40 and 70 have erectile dysfunction. About 7 in 10 men aged 70 and above have erectile dysfunction (ED).
There are two main causes of erectile dysfunction (ED): physical and psychological. Most doctors agree that the majority of cases are physical but it's also clear that many men with erectile dysfunction (ED) also quickly start to feel anxious, stressed or depressed. These feelings can easily make the symptoms of erectile dysfunction worse.
Although this article focuses primarily on erectile dysfunction (ED) in males, one must remember that the sexual partner plays an integral role. If successful and effective management is to be achieved, the evaluation and discussion of erectile dysfunction (ED) should include both partners.
Sexual health and function are important determinants of quality of life. Disorders such as erectile dysfunction (ED) and female sexual dysfunction are becoming increasingly more important as a result of the aging population and newer therapies. Because this subject is discussed widely in the media, men and women of all ages are seeking guidance in an effort to improve their relationships and experience satisfying sexual lives.
Even clinicians who are not comfortable dealing with erectile dysfunction (ED) should inquire into this important aspect of the patient's health. A simple way to do this is simply ask, "How's your sex life? Everything working all right?" This type of inquiry should elicit a clear, quick, direct "Everything's fine" from the patient. Any other response or even just a delay in answering should suggest potential erectile dysfunction (ED) in that patient.