Diagnosing and treating ED

In determining the cause of ED, a doctor will consider the patient's medical and sexual history. A physical exam and lab tests can also be used. The National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NKUDIC) says most physicians suggest that treatments for ED proceed along a path moving from least invasive to most invasive. This means cutting back on any harmful drugs is considered first. Psychotherapy and behavior modifications are considered next, often focusing on ways to reduce anxiety. If less invasive techniques prove unsuccessful, The American Foundation for Urologic Disease (AFUD) and NKUDIC say additional treatments can include any of the following:

Vacuum devices
Mechanical vacuum devices cause erection by creating a partial vacuum around the penis, which draws blood into the penis, engorging it and expanding it.

Drugs
Drugs for treating ED can be taken orally, applied or injected directly on or into the penis, or inserted into the urethra at the tip of the penis. Oral medications include sildenafil citrate (which increases blood flow to the penis) as well as testosterone (used for men affected by low testosterone levels). As with any medication, consult your doctor about potential side effects. Injected medications also work to increase blood flow to the penis, but can result in side effects that include persistent erection (known as priapism) and scarring.

Surgery
Surgically implanted devices devices, known as prostheses, can restore erection in many men with ED. Possible problems with implants include mechanical breakdown and infection. NKUDIC says surgery involving veins or arteries is also an option.


Common questions about ED:

- ED means loss of interest in sex, lack of vigour or sterility right?

No. In most cases, affected men retain desire and the ability to have an orgasm and ejaculate. erectile dysfunction means a difficulty with erections, not a loss of interest in sex, sterility, or a lack of strength, vigour or power.


- Difficulty with erections is not that common and doesn't happen to "real" men right?

Sorry, wrong again. erectile dysfunction is common with estimates of more than 100 million men worldwide suffering the condition to some degree.

- Erectile dysfunction is a natural part of growing old isn't it?

It doesn't have to be. Although there is a higher incidence of erectile dysfunction among older men because of age-related conditions, including vascular disease, diabetes and medications for these conditions. Although it mainly affects older men, it also occurs in younger males. erectile dysfunction should not be considered a natural or acceptable part of the ageing process.

- Most cases of erectile dysfunction are due to a psychological problem with the guy right?

You're way off. Seventy to ninety percent of men suffering from erectile dysfunction have an underlying physical cause for their impotence, although psychological factors may also play a role. Erectile dysfunction is a medical condition often caused by other health problems, including diabetes, cardiovascular conditions and trauma. The physical risk factors for erectile dysfunction fall into five main groups: Vascular disorders - circulatory problems that interfere with blood supply to the penis including hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis), diabetes, high blood pressure and abnormally raised blood cholesterol.

- Erectile dysfunction doesn't really affect your health and you should learn to live with it and be a man about it.

Erectile dysfunction is a significant source of emotional stress, and can lead to poor self-image, loss of self-confidence and depression. Unfortunately, embarrassment and unwillingness to discuss sexual matters openly mean erectile dysfunction often remains undiagnosed and untreated. It is important to seek medical advice and appropriate treatment.

- The diagnosis of erectile dysfunction involves embarrassing and invasive testing.

The diagnosis of erectile dysfunction involves techniques such as taking a medical and sexual history, asking about smoking, alcohol and medications. Only a standard physical examination is usually needed, including taking your blood pressure. Laboratory tests on blood and urine will help identify any underlying medical cause that may need treatment.

- There's no point in seeking treatment because erectile dysfunction is not easily treated.

In the majority of cases, erectile dysfunction can be successfully treated. It is therefore important for patients to seek advice from their doctor, for the good of themselves, their partners and their relationships.

Ball Stretchers can be used at any time of day or high to effectively stretch the scrotal sacs, many men like to experience their balls hanging low and over a period of time this can be easily and effectively achieved. For starters to stretching a simple leather collar is recommended, if a man is looking for faster results the addition of weight with Split Collar Rings means even faster, better results.