Impotence/Erectile Dysfunction Topic Guide

The male erection is a complex process involving multiple body systems. As such, there are myriad causes for erectile dysfunction. Some causes are psychological issues problems with the nervous system; problems with the vascular system like high blood pressure; low testosterone levels; medical conditions like diabetes or prostate cancer; and side effects of medications.

Male sexual problems are often difficult to diagnose because many are reluctant to discuss them. Testing involves physical examination and lab testing to determine whether erectile dysfunction is caused by physical or psychological problems.

Different categories of medical (non-surgical) treatments exist to cure or assauge erectile dysfunction. They include medications, supplements, hormonal therapy, intraurethral pellets, penile injections and external vacuum devices. A number of medical and/or psychological factors may cause erectile dysfunction.

Erectile dysfunction (or ED), also called male impotence, describes a man's inability to achieve and maintain an erection of his penis sufficient for mutually satisfactory sexual intercourse with his partner. Erectile dysfunction is treatable with a variety of methods, including medications, devices and therapy. ED may be a symptom of other disorders and diseases such as high blood pressure or heart disease.

Surgical options are available to treat erectile dysfunction are available for those who don't respond to medical treatment. Surgical options include: Semirigid or malleable rod implants Inflatable implants Vascular reconstructive surgery Each procedure has it own advantages and drawbacks.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is also referred to as impotence. Erectile dysfunction is the consistent inability to attain or maintain an erection. Medications to treat erectile dysfunction include: PDE5 inhibitors (sildenafil [Viagra], vardenafil [Levitra], tadalafil [Cialis]); androgens (Depo-Testosterone, Delatest, Andro-L.A., AndroGel, Testim, Androderm, Testoderm); and prostaglandins alprostadil (Caverject, Edex, Muse Pellet). Side effects, drug interactions, warnings and precautions, and patient information should be reviewed prior to taking any medication.

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is a group of different types of heart disease. Symptoms of heart disease depend on the cause and inclue chest pain or angina, shortness of breath, palpitations, and dizziness. Many conditions causes heart disease, for example, genetics, obesity, high cholesterol, and smoking. Treatment for heart disease depend on the cause and include diet and other lifestyle changes, medications, procedures, and surgery. The prognosis (outlook) and life span for someone with heart disease varies depending on the cause.