Archive for June, 2008
Jun
14
Erectile dysfunction is the repeated inability to get or keep an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. Due to the sensitive nature of the condition, it is difficult to estimate how many men it affects.
However, it is believed about 5% of 40-year-old men and up to 25% of 65-year-old men may have the condition.
How does an erection occur?
The penis contains two chambers full of spongy tissue called the corpora cavernosa.
When a man becomes sexually aroused impulses from the brain and local nerves cause muscles in the corpora cavernosa to relax, allowing blood to flow in and fill the spaces within the tissue.
This creates pressure in the corpora cavernosa, making the penis expand.
A membrane called the tunica albuginea helps trap the blood in the corpora cavernosa, thereby sustaining erection.
The erection is lost when the muscles contract to stop blood flowing into the penis, and open outflow channels.
What causes erectile dysfunction?
A successful, sustained erection requires a sequence of events to occur in a precise fashion.
Anything which disrupts this sequence can lead to problems either getting, or keeping an erection.
The most common cause of erectile dysfunction is damage to the tissues, either the nerves, arteries, muscles or fibrous tissue.
This is often linked either to disease. Conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, chronic alcoholism, multiple sclerosis and cardiovascular disease account for around 70% of cases of erectile dsyfunction.
In some cases the condition is caused by damage to the nerves and arteries near the penis which can occur during surgery, particularly for prostate and bladder cancer.
Physical injury to the penis, spinal cord, prostate, bladder or pelvis can also be a factor.
Erectile dsyfunction is also a side effect of some common medications, including blood pressure drugs, antihistamiines, antidepressants and tranquilizers.
Experts believe that psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, guilt, depression, low self-esteem, and fear of sexual failure cause up to 20% of cases.
Smoking, which affects blood flow, has also been linked to the condition.
Can it be treated?
Yes. There is a range of ways to treat erectile dysfunction.
Doctors will consider psychotherapy for patients who are likely to benefit, but alternatives include drugs, vacuum devices, and surgery. online viagra, online levitra, online cialis, online Pharma shop.