Although it can be seen at any age, it occurs more frequently especially in men after the age of 40. However, this condition is not a "natural consequence of aging" and is often a harbinger of an underlying health problem. Temporary problems experienced from time to time can be considered normal; however, if this condition recurs frequently or becomes continuous, it must absolutely be evaluated.
What Is Erectile Dysfunction?
The inability to achieve or maintain sufficient erection for sexual intercourse is called erectile dysfunction. Known medically as erectile dysfunction, it generally occurs as a result of the inability to provide sufficient blood flow to the penis or to maintain this flow.
What Causes Erectile Dysfunction?
The erection problem is generally not dependent on a single cause. Physical and psychological factors can be effective together.
1. Physical (Organic) Causes
- Vascular diseases (arteriosclerosis, hypertension)
- Diabetes (sugar disease)
- Hormonal disorders (low testosterone)
- Obesity and sedentary life
- Smoking and alcohol use
- Certain medications (blood pressure, antidepressants)
- Nervous system diseases
- Heart diseases
Especially the erection problem can be an early symptom of cardiovascular diseases.
2. Psychological Causes - (Psychological causes are more prominent in the young age group.)
- Performance anxiety
- Stress and intense work life
- Depression
- Relationship problems
- Traumatic experiences
WhatsApp What Are the Symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction?
- No formation of erection at all
- Disappearance of erection in a short time
- Inability to achieve sufficient hardness
- Decrease in sexual desire
How Is Erectile Dysfunction Diagnosed?
The diagnosis of erectile dysfunction (erectile dysfunction) is made with a multi-faceted evaluation in order to correctly determine the underlying cause. The diagnosis process covers both physical and psychological factors.
- 1. Detailed Patient History (Anamnesis): It is the most important step of the diagnosis. The physician evaluates in detail when the complaints started and how frequently they are experienced, whether the erection occurs or its sustainability, whether there is morning erection, the medications used and existing chronic diseases, as well as smoking, alcohol, and lifestyle habits.
- 2. Physical Examination: General health status and urological evaluation are performed. Within this scope, penis and testis examinations are carried out; the vascular and nervous systems are evaluated, blood pressure measurement is performed, and obesity status is analyzed over the body mass index (BMI).
- 3. Laboratory Tests: Blood tests are requested for the purpose of detecting underlying diseases. Among these tests are testosterone level, blood sugar (in terms of diabetes), cholesterol and lipid profile, and kidney and liver function tests. Erectile dysfunction can be the first symptom of diabetes or cardiovascular diseases in some cases.
- 4. Psychological Evaluation: Psychological evaluation is performed in necessary cases. Within this scope, the level of stress, anxiety, and depression is examined; performance anxiety is questioned and relationship dynamics are evaluated. This step carries great importance especially in young patients.
- 5. Advanced Diagnostic Methods: Advanced diagnostic methods are applied in necessary cases. Within this scope, Penile Doppler ultrasonography can be applied to evaluate the penile vascular structure and blood flow. In addition, with the Nocturnal Penile Tumescence (NPT) test that measures nighttime erections, it can be differentiated whether the problem is physical or psychosocially sourced.
How Is Erectile Dysfunction Treated?
Erectile dysfunction (erectile dysfunction) treatment is planned according to the cause of the problem. When the correct diagnosis is made, it is possible to achieve successful results today with highly effective and customized treatment options.
- Lifestyle Changes
- Medication Treatment
- Psychological Support and Sexual Therapy
- Vacuum Devices
- Injection Treatments
- Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT)
- Surgical Treatment (Penile Prosthesis)
