Erectile dysfunction is a problem that despite the stigma surrounding it is very common. Sufferers of the condition cannot achieve a strong enough or continuous enough erection to have satisfying sexual intercourse.
There are actually several erectile dysfunction treatment options available. In the following post, we are going to discuss some of the most common, to help you figure out which is the best for you. First, it’s worth understanding a little more about erections.
What Happens When You Have Erectile Dysfunction?
Erections are caused by the increased flow of blood to your penis. Your brain normally sends signals to your penis when you are aroused, resulting in an erection. There are many different factors, however, that can disrupt the whole process and stop you from having an erection, even when you feel aroused.
Psychological and physical factors and health conditions can all contribute to erectile dysfunction. The suitable treatment method for erectile dysfunction often depends on what caused it in the first place.
Psychotherapy and Counselling
For many people, the cause of their ED is emotional or psychological. It may be that they are stressed or anxious about sexual activity or if they suffer from low self-esteem.
In situations like these, psychotherapy and counseling may be the best option. CBT in particular, that is cognitive-behavioral therapy can be effective as it involves changing the behavior and thought patterns that create the problems.
Erectile Dysfunction Medication
There are a variety of different pills that can be prescribed to help combat erectile dysfunction, including:
Avanafil
Avanafil or Stendra is categorized as a PDE5 drug. It usually takes effect within 15 minutes and can last as much as 6 hours.
Sildenafil
Sildenafil, or Viagra as it is more commonly known, is one of the most popular erectile dysfunction treatments and is another PD5E (phosphodiesterase type 5) inhibitor drug. Both this and the above stop a particular enzyme from controlling the flow of blood. They relax your blood vessels and increase the flow of blood.
Side Effects and Risks Associated with Erectile Dysfunction Medication
Most erectile dysfunction pills and medication are safe, but some people should not take them. This includes:
- People who are under the age of 18 years old
- People who suffer from low blood pressure
- People who have recently had a heart attack or stroke
- People with a history of liver or heart disease
- People who are allergic to the medication
Some of the most common side effects to be aware of when taking these pills includes:
- Vision problems
- Dizziness
- A runny or stuffy nose
- Hot flashes
- Nausea
- Headaches
Surgery
If none of the above sounds viable for you, there are also various surgical treatments for erectile dysfunction. One of the most common is undoubtedly penile implants. A penile implant involves the placement of a special mechanical device inside your penis to inflate it to cause an erection.
The process involves the implantation of a three-piece pump and the placement of two special cylinders inside your penis. It goes inside the scrotum and connects up to a device inside your stomach that is filled with a special fluid.
There are also two-piece versions that are available. These feature fluid in your scrotum instead of your stomach. When you squeeze the pump inside your scrotum to draw fluid inside your cylinders to cause an erection to form.
This is the best way to treat erectile dysfunction, but it is often considered a last-resort if other forms of treatment have not been as effective.
When it comes to choosing the best option, you need to really consider what the cause of erectile dysfunction is in the first place.