Erectile dysfunction is a condition more commonly known as impotence. where men are unable to get and maintain an erection during sexual intercourse. This condition is normal in men, but frequent or ongoing occurrence can lead to problems in the male’s social and mental well being. Stress and worry, shame or low self-esteem, marital issues, and the inability to procreate with a partner are all complications related to erectile dysfunction. If you are suffering silently from this condition, then it is time that you know that there are available treatments for ED in Singapore.
The symptoms of erectile dysfunction can include persistent struggle in getting an erection, difficulties in keeping an erection and reduced sexual desire or drive. Men who experience erectile dysfunction should seek medical attention in the following situations:
- Have other symptoms together with erectile dysfunction
- Have diabetes, heart disease, or some other ailment that is known to have a connection to erectile dysfunction
- Have questions about their erections or have other issues with sex activities, including early or delayed ejaculation
Erection is a manifestation of a man’s sexual arousal and is a complex process involving a lot of physical and psychological aspects such as brain activity, hormone levels, emotions, muscles, nerves and blood vessels. With that said, having erectile dysfunction is a sign of issues with any or a combination of the physical and psychological aspects.
The common physical causes of erectile dysfunction include health problems such as obesity, high levels of cholesterol, atherosclerosis or clogged blood vessels, metabolic syndrome, sleep disorders, low testosterone or other hormones, high blood pressure, heart disease, Peyronie’s disease (scar tissue in the penis), parkinson’s disease and Multiple sclerosis, certain medications used like cancer treatment, etc., lifestyle issues such as alcoholism, smoking and substance abuse. Psychological causes would include stress, anxiety, depression and other conditions affecting mental health, and relationship problems.
It is expected that erections may take longer to happen when a male gets older. Aside from age, here are the factors that can contribute to erectile dysfunction:
- Obesity or being overweight
- smoking /Tobacco use
- Injuries
- Use of drugs
- Alcohol consumption
- Taking certain medications/treatments
- Having medical and psychological condtions
There are several suggested methods for preventing erectile dysfunction, which advocate for men to adopt a healthier lifestyle and take better care of any underlying medical conditions. Preventive methods include the following:
- Going for regular check-ups and medical screening.
- Quitting smoking, limit or avoid alcohol entirely
- Not using prohibited drugs
- Looking for ways to lessen stress
- Seeking medical attention when experiencing anxiety, depression and/or other mental health problems
- Controlling disorders including diabetes, heart disease, or other recurring illnesses by seeing a doctor
In diagnosing erectile dysfunction, a physical exam and a review of the patient’s medical and sexual history would usually be enough for the doctor to make recommendations. Topics like past operations, medication usage, injuries, lifestyle choices, romantic relationships, and sex desires are all tackled by the doctor to check for medical and sexual histories. However, if the male has lingering health conditions or if the doctor sees symptoms of an underlying condition, further tests or consultation with a more specialized doctor will be required. Here are the common test involved to check for any underlying health condition that cause erectile dysfunction, aside from a physical exam:
- Urine test or urinalysis and blood tests – these tests are done to check for signs of conditions like diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, hormonal issues such as low levels of testosterone and other health conditions. Thyroid function can also be assessed using blood tests (the thyroid is an important gland in the body responsible for a lot of bodily processes including flow sex hormones).
- Ultrasound-this test is done to see how the blood flows in penis during and after erection. Through this test, the doctor will be able to see if there is a blockage of blood or any blood flow problems in the penis.
- Psychological exam-this test is set up to look for depression and other psychological problems that may contribute to erectile dysfunction through the use of standard questions. In circumstances when the patient has a regular partner, the doctor may also need to speak with the partner and patient together in order to understand more about their relationship and determine whether there are any potential factors that could contribute to erectile dysfunction.
- Injection tests-this test is done to check for blood flow in penis. The process for this test will involve the injection of medicine that will trigger an erection. Not getting an erection could mean an issue with blood flow in the organ.
Treatment for erectile dysfunction will depend on what is causing it which will vary from making changes in lifestyle to medication and even surgery. Options for treatments will be explained by the doctor including the benefits and the risks of each option. Options for therapy may take into account the partner of the male patient’s preferences.
Oral medicine is prescribed to help the body relax the penis muscles and promote erection and has been known to be effective in treating erectile dysfunction. Common oral medicines used are tSildenafil (Viagra), Tadalafil (Adcirca, Cialis), Vardenafil (Levitra, Staxyn) Avanafil (Stendra). he medications will vary in dosage and effects and side-effects. Known side effects of these medications would include nasal congestion, headaches, backache and upset stomach. Aside from oral medications, other forms of medications may be prescribed such as through injection, etc.
Other treatment approaches are the use of penis pumps (a battery-operated medical device), implants or surgery. Exercise can also be recommended as studies have shown that increasing levels of physical activity reduces risk of erectile dysfunction. Exercise can help reduce stress, lose weight and improve blood flow in the body. The doctor will be able to help with a good exercise plan.
For psychological causes, counseling may be suggested to improve the male patient’s mental state. For this, the patient (or him and his partner) would be prompted to see a psychologist or counselor to help address psychological issues such as stress or depression, tension in the relationship and other mental health conditions that lead to erectile dysfunction. Going to couples counseling might be helpful in improving communication between partners.
Artisan Health Clinic
Paragon
290 Orchard Road #07-01,
Paragon Medical Suites,
Singapore 238859
https://www.artisanhealthclinic.sg/
Phone / Whatsapp
(65) 8129 8877
