Erection (Erection) Treatment
Erectile dysfunction is the inability to maintain an erection or to achieve an erection sufficient for sexual activity. Also known as erectile dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction refers to the inability or absence of penile erection necessary for a man to have intercourse or complete sexual activities.
Erectile dysfunction can have multiple causes. These include physical factors, psychological factors, or combinations of them. Here are some common causes:
Physical causes:
- Cardiovascular diseases (eg, arteriosclerosis, high blood pressure)
- Diabetes
- Hormonal imbalances (for example, low testosterone levels)
- Neurological disorders (eg, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease)
- Pelvic trauma or surgery
- Obesity
- Smoking and alcohol use
Psychological reasons:
- Stress and anxiety
- Depression
- Relationship issues
- Performance anxiety
- Loss of sexual desire
Erectile dysfunction can have significant effects on sexual health and quality of life. However, it is a treatable condition and several treatment options are available. Treatment options may vary depending on the underlying causes of the problem. Here are some treatment options:
- Lifestyle changes: Adopting a healthy lifestyle, doing physical activity, eating a balanced diet and not smoking can alleviate erectile dysfunction.
- Medication: Medications called PDE5 inhibitors can help achieve an erection by increasing blood flow to the penis.
- Hormonal therapy: Testosterone replacement can correct the erectile dysfunction associated with low testosterone levels.
- Psychotherapy: Therapy or counseling can help with erectile dysfunction caused by psychological reasons.
- Vacuum devices: A pump and ring system inserted into the penis can be used to maintain an erection.
- Surgical intervention: In rare cases, surgical options such as implants or vascular surgery may be considered.
A man with erectile dysfunction should talk openly and honestly about his condition with a healthcare professional. A doctor will assess the condition, identify any underlying causes, and recommend the most appropriate treatment options.
Erection (Erection) Treatment
Treatment of erectile dysfunction depends on the underlying causes of the problem, the patient’s health status and preferences. Here are the commonly used methods for erectile dysfunction treatment:
- Oral medications: Medications called PDE5 inhibitors are commonly used to treat erectile dysfunction. These drugs help to achieve an erection by increasing blood flow to the penis. Drugs such as sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), vardenafil (Levitra), and avanafil (Stendra) are in this category. The use of these drugs should be prescribed by a doctor and should be informed about their side effects.
- Injectable drugs: Alprostadil is injected into the penis and used to provide erection. This drug increases blood flow by relaxing the smooth muscles in the penis. Injectable medications are usually only considered when other treatment options have not been effective. It is important to be trained by a healthcare professional in the administration process and use.
- Vacuum devices: A vacuum device placed on the penis provides an erection by increasing blood flow to the penis. A ring is then placed to maintain the erection. This method may be an option for people who do not respond to medication or do not want to use medication.
- Hormonal therapy: Testosterone replacement therapy may be considered for men with erectile dysfunction associated with low testosterone levels. However, the risks and benefits of testosterone therapy should be considered and supervised by a physician.
- Psychotherapy: Individual or couple therapy may be helpful if the erection problem is caused by psychological factors. Therapy can help resolve erectile dysfunction by addressing issues such as stress, anxiety, relationship problems, or performance concerns.
- Surgical intervention: In rare cases, surgical options such as penile implant or vascular surgery may be considered. Penile implants are devices placed inside the penis and are used to provide erection. Surgical options are often considered when other treatment modalities are not effective or appropriate.
Erectile dysfunction treatment should be evaluated on an individual basis and directed by a healthcare professional. It is important to consult with a urologist to determine the best treatment options for your condition and to receive accurate information about the side effects, risks, and benefits.
Assoc.Prof. Tuncay TAŞ
Urology Specialist
Istanbul/ TURKEY