Erectile dysfunction (ED) otherwise known as impotence is a condition that affects a mans ability to achieve or maintain an erection long enough satisfy himself and/or his partner. Erectile dysfunction is not actually a disease but rather a symptom of an underlying problem either physical, psychological or both.
Erectile dysfunction can affect men of any age but is particularly more common in older aged men. The severity of erectile dysfunction can vary from the ability to achieve only brief erections to total inability to get an erection.
It is believed about 20% of men over the age of 40 suffer from some degree of erectile dysfunction with 10% having acute erectile dysfunction.
It is important to remember that the occasional loss of erection hardness is of no big concern and can be a result of a number of external factors e.g alcohol, tiredness, stress.
There are a number factors which can be attributed to causing erectile dysfunction.
There are a few options available when it comes to treating erectile dysfunction.
The most common and well known ED pills are Viagra (sildenafil Citrate), Cialis (Tadalafil) and Levitra (Vardenafil). These pills work by relaxing the smooth muscles and increasing blood flow to the penis but like all other medications they carry the risk of side affects such as headaches, nausea, flushing, indigestion, muscle aches and nasal congestion. Because these medications have side effects and may interfere with other medications or conditions you are required in Australia to have a prescription from your GP.
Alprostadil is injected into the penis shortly before intercourse and has basically has the same effect as oral medications.
Vacuum pumps work by inserting your penis into a cylindrical chamber and squeezing a small hand pump. This creates a vacuum around the penis which draws blood into the spongy tissue that fills during an erection. Caution should be taken with these devices as over pumping could cause bruising to your penis.
Penis traction devices such as the Proextender system strengthen the penis by applying constant tension which causes the cells within the penis to multiply and hold more blood.
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