Erectile dysfunction is defined as the inability to produce and maintain penile erection. Erectile dysfunction is also called impotency. Erectile dysfunction was once considered a disease of the elderly, but now younger people who are undergoing radiotherapy, chemotherapy, drug addiction, and diabetes mellitus can also be prone to this condition. There are a number of treatment options available for the treatment of erectile dysfunction.
Erectile dysfunction treatments:
The treatment options which are available for the treatment of erectile dysfunction are psychotherapy, treatment with drugs, mechanical therapy, hormone replacement therapy, and surgical treatment.
Psychotherapy for erectile dysfunction:
People who suffer from erectile dysfunction are often depressed due to dissatisfaction with their sexual life. The patients, as well as their partners, suffer psychologically. Some may opt for a psychological treatment to be assured that erectile dysfunction can be treated.
Medical treatment for erectile dysfunction:
The medical treatment for erectile dysfunction includes taking pills and the administration of injections. The most commonly used drugs are the phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors. These PDE5 inhibitors inhibit the phosphodiesterase, an enzyme which degrades the cyclic GMP. Therefore, the level of cyclic GMP in the corpus cavernosum increases, and causes dilatation of the arteries of the penis by relaxing the smooth muscles of the penis. This, in turn, causes an erection of the penis. The commonly available PDE5 inhibitors are Sildenafil, Vardenafil, and Tadalafil.
Latest medical breakthroughs:
The introduction of Alprostadil in the treatment of erectile dysfunction is one of the latest medical breakthroughs. The drug is injected into the penis just before sexual intercourse. It is also available as a topical cream. Likewise, Androskat, a mixture of papaverine and phentolamine can also be injected into the penis.
Mechanical treatment for erectile dysfunction:
Penile pumps or vacuum pumps which are available on the market increase blood supply and cause erection of the penis. The disadvantage of these pumps is that they may cause bruises on the penis.
Surgery:
If all other measures have failed, surgery can be done where prosthetic implants can be implanted into the penis.
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