ED is a reality in one of every five American men and is present in more than thirty million American men and over 150 million men worldwide. However, nearly every patient can be treated successfully.
Dr. Jose Maymi, Brownsville urologist, addressed this male sexual dysfunction, the inability to maintain an erection firm enough to have sexual intercourse. In patients with ED, around ninety percent of the causes are physical, and ten percent are psychological.
Most physical causes are due to poor blood flow to penis (40 percent) and diabetes (30 percent). In fact, “usually the first manifestation of a circulatory problem is ED,” says Dr.Maymi. Other physical causes include endocrine or neurological problems, pelvic surgery, trauma or medication. Age is also a factor.
There are various treatment options available for erectile dysfunction, so men (and women) don’t have to live with ED. Oral medication, vacuum erection device, urethral suppository, penile injection therapy and penile implants are options that men can consider.
One must be careful with oral medications for they tend to have some contraindications. Oral medications should not be taken with nitrates and if the patient suffers from serious liver or kidney problems. Patients taking some medications for prostate problems must also be precautious. Because of the cost of the medication and the embarrassment that some men feel talking about ED, some patients opt to purchase the medication without a prescription. This could be very dangerous and even life threatening, which is why Dr. Maymi stresses the importance of talking with your physician if you plan to take the medication.
Because of the ad campaign for ED medication, it may be surprising to know that the overall patient satisfaction of a penile implant is higher by almost 50 percent compared to the satisfaction of oral medication and penile injections. Penile implants (AMS 700 with InhibiZone) have been on the market for over thirty years. There have been over 300,000 implants to date and have a high patient and partner satisfaction. It is the only inflatable penile prosthesis with an antibiotic coding, which has shown a significant reduction of infection. The benefits are that it is totally concealed in the body, works like a natural erection and is a dependable long-term solution.
ED is a common problem, but it has a solution. If the condition is causing concern, it is important to be treated as soon as possible. The best solution is always prevention. Remember, ED can be an indication of a more serious problem, which is why it is important to recognize the dysfunction and take action. Do not let time pass. It is not only a physical condition, but it also takes toll on your psychological aspect and interpersonal relationships. Visit your physician regularly.
By Lourdes Valdez