Erectile dysfunction is defined as the inability to acquire and maintain a firm enough erection for sexual activity (impotence).
Having erection problems from time to time isn’t normally a cause for concern. However, if erectile dysfunction is left untreated for a long time, it can cause stress, low self-esteem, and interpersonal problems. An erectile trouble could be a sign of a more serious underlying health problem or an associated complications for heart disease.
ED Treatments
Erectile dysfunction treatments that aren’t intrusive are frequently tried first. The majority of popular ED treatments are both effective and safe. Still, you should talk to your doctor about the possible side effects of each option:
- In the United States, phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitors are the most commonly recommended medicines for ED (Viagra, Cialis, Levitra, Stendra)
- Testosterone Replacement Therapy (when low testosterone is detected in blood testing)
- Injections into the sperm (ICI, intracavernosal Alprostadil)
- Medications administered intraurethral (IU, Alprostadil)
- Erection Vacuum Devices
- Implants in the sperm
Some men who have had serious pelvic injuries may require surgery to bypass damaged penile arteries. Penile vascular surgery is not recommended for elderly men with hardened arteries.
Oral Drugs (PDE5 inhibitors)
Drugs that enhance penile blood flow are known as PDE type-5 inhibitors. These are the only oral erectile dysfunction treatments approved by the Food and Drug Administration in the United States.
- Viagra
- Stendra
- Levitra
- Cialis
For best results, individuals with ED should take these drugs about an hour or two before having intercourse. The drugs require normal nerve function in the penis. PDE5 inhibitors improve erectile function by increasing blood flow to the penis. Use these medications exactly as advised. Approximately 7 out of 10 guys perform well and have improved erections. Diabetics and cancer patients have reduced response rates.
PDE5 inhibitors should not be taken if you are taking nitrates for your heart. Before you start taking a PDE5 inhibitor, talk to your doctor to find out how it will affect your health.
The majority of PDE5 inhibitors’ negative effects are minor and only last a short time. Some of the common side effects:
- Headache
- Congested nose
- Flushing of the face
- Muscle pain
- Indigestion
In rare situations, the medicine Viagra ® might create a blue-green tinge to your eyesight that lasts only a few seconds. Cialis ® can cause or worsen back discomfort or hurt muscles in the back in rare circumstances. Most of the time, the adverse effects are due to PDE5 inhibitors’ effects on other tissues in the body, which means they function to improve blood flow to your penis while also affecting other vascular tissues. These aren’t ‘allergic reactions,’ as the term implies.
Is it possible for anyone to use ED medication?
If you’re using nitroglycerin or other nitrates for chest pain, you shouldn’t take these medications. Before using any erectile dysfunction treatments, tell your doctor if you have any cardiac problems. In those with heart problems, these medications can have substantial side effects.
If you get chest symptoms while taking sildenafil, kamagra, tadalafil, fildena 100 or vardenafil, notify the paramedics, nurses, or doctors at the hospital that you are taking it and when you last took it.
You could attempt a penile implant, vacuum pump devices, or surgery if the drugs don’t work for you. Your doctor may refer you to a urologist to discuss these possibilities.