Erectile dysfunction

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Erectile dysfunction (ED), also known as impotence, is a type of sexual dysfunction characterized by the inability to develop or maintain an erection of the penis during sexual activity.

Common causes of erectile dysfunction

Causes[edit | edit source]

ED can have psychological consequences as it can be tied to relationship difficulties and self-image. A physical cause can be identified in about 80% of cases. These include cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, neurological problems such as following prostatectomy, hypogonadism, and drug side effects.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Psychological impotence is where erection or penetration fails due to thoughts or feelings; this is somewhat less frequent, on the order of about 10% of cases. In psychological impotence, there is a strong response to placebo treatment.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Besides treating the underlying causes such as potassium deficiency or arsenic contamination of drinking water, the first line treatment of erectile dysfunction consists of a trial of PDE5 inhibitor (such as sildenafil). In some cases, treatment can involve prostaglandin tablets in the urethra, injections into the penis, a penile prosthesis, a penis pump or vascular reconstructive surgery.

See also[edit | edit source]

External links[edit | edit source]

Erectile dysfunction Resources

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD