We laugh about the Penis being the “head” that men usually think with instead of the one on their shoulders, but is there any truth to this? I mean really, does the Penis have a mind of its own?
Let’s Talk Erectile Dysfunction
If the Penis doesn’t want to have sex, can you force it? I mean, if a man cannot achieve an erection, are you simply out-of-luck!
Erectile dysfunction, or ED, is the inability to achieve or sustain an erection suitable for sexual intercourse. Causes include medications, chronic illnesses, poor blood flow to the penis, drinking too much alcohol, or being too tired.
Let’s Talk About the Symptoms
- An inability to achieve an erection
- Erections that are too soft to have sexual intercourse
- Erections that don’t remain erect long enough to have sexual intercourse
Who Get’s “ED”?
- Men between the ages of 40-70 years old
- More common in Hispanic men
- Those who are obese, smoke, have diabetes, and/or hypertension
- Cardiovascular Disease
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Kidney Disease
- Some prescription meds
- Psychological – stress, low self-esteem, and performance anxiety
How Does it Work? Or Not Work?
As many of us know, an erection or a “boner” is achieved by the blood flow rushing into the penis. This causes the penis to expand and “grow”. The process is totally by brain stimulation. When the male is stimulated sexually, his brain triggers the effects of the blood flow to the penis. Anything that “blocks” these impulses from the brain to the penis can cause erectile dysfunction.
Diagnosing Erectile Dysfunction
First of all, I’m not a medial professional and am sharing only what I’ve researched on the subject.
If you feel you may be suffering from Erectile Dysfunction, I highly recommend you consult your physician. There are many ways that he/she can determine if the issue is truly “ED”.
- Physical examination
- Blood/Lab tests to examine your testosterone levels (menopause)
- Blood/Lab tests to examine your cholesterol, blood sugar levels, and liver function
Is There a Cure?
There are a few things you could try to hopefully it will correct the issue:
- Lifestyle change
- quit smoking
- start exercising
- lose weight
- possible switch of prescription medication
- quit drinking alcohol/beer
- Take an Oral Medication for Stimulation
- Viagra
- Cialis
- Levitra
- Injections
- Drugs that are injected straight into the penis
- A pill that goes into your urethra
- Vacuum Devices (a.k.a. pump)
- If there is a blocked artery, surgery may be suggested
- Penile implant
- Psychotherapy
- Herbal remedies
In Closing
Although Erectile Dysfunction may be a traumatic event for men, PLEASE don’t be embarrassed to share the issue with your partner. You may not be engaging in sexual activity due to the “ED”, which may cause your partner to feel saddened, unattractive, or that you are having an affair. So again, don’t make the issue bigger than you have to, talk about it and work together to come to a solution.