Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
Definition: Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a condition in which a person is unable to get or maintain an erection firm enough for satisfactory sexual intercourse[1][3].
Prevalence: ED affects approximately 30 million men in the United States[1].
Symptoms:
- Difficulty getting an erection
- Inability to maintain an erection during sexual activity
- Reduced sexual desire
Common Causes:
- Vascular issues (e.g., atherosclerosis, hypertension)
- Neurological disorders (e.g., multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease)
- Hormonal imbalances (e.g., low testosterone)
- Psychological factors (e.g., stress, anxiety, depression)
- Certain medications
- Lifestyle factors (e.g., smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity)
Diagnosis:
- Medical history review
- Physical examination
- Laboratory tests
- Psychological evaluation
Treatment Options:
- Oral medications (e.g., PDE5 inhibitors)
- Injections
- Vacuum erection devices
- Penile implants
- Lifestyle modifications
- Psychological counseling
Complications:
- Relationship strain
- Reduced quality of life
- Difficulty conceiving a child
- Low self-esteem
Prevention:
- Maintaining a healthy lifestyle
- Managing chronic health conditions
- Regular exercise
- Stress reduction techniques
Related Terms:
- Impotence (outdated term)
- Sexual dysfunction
- Penile disorder
Remember, ED is a common and treatable condition. Consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment options[4][6].
Citations:
[1] https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/urologic-diseases/erectile-dysfunction/definition-facts
[2] https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/urologic-diseases/erectile-dysfunction/symptoms-causes
[3] https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/erectile-dysfunction
[4] https://familydoctor.org/condition/erectile-dysfunction/
[5] https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/urologic-diseases/erectile-dysfunction
[6] https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/sexual-and-reproductive/erectile-dysfunction-impotence/
[7] https://www.clevelandclinicmeded.com/medicalpubs/diseasemanagement/endocrinology/erectile-dysfunction/
[8] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/5702
[9] https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10035-erectile-dysfunction
