Demystifying Erectile Dysfunction

It’s not easy watching our boyfriends or husbands struggle with erectile dysfunction, and we are  also dealt with some consequences as well. Emotion is definitely tied to this condition because it effect couples on intimate sexual levels.  While this can understandably burden our relationships, we owe it to ourselves, and our partners, to learn as much as we can about this very common condition.

Women are anxious to know why their partner isn’t maintaining an erection, especially when the environment and mood feels just right.  It’s important to understand that both physical and mental conditions can trigger erectile dysfunction in your partner.  This is why erectile dysfunction should be addressed early on, so both partners can work together to learn about the condition.

The natural process of aging is definitely a factor in some cases, whereas anxiety or compromised cardio vascular health are both noted causes as well.  According to the National Institutes of Health, the following have all been observed in erectile dysfunction patients.

·      Diabetes

·      Not only is erectile dysfunction observed in heart patients, but it’s also an early symptom of heart disease.

·      Nerve Damage due to prostate surgery

·      An injury to the spinal cord, penis, prostate or bladder

·      Certain bicycle seats

·      Long-term alcoholism

·      Some medications for depression and blood pressure.

To understand the condition even more, this the perfect time to learn about the anatomical structure of the penis itself.  The penis is actually one of the most complex and fascinating organs in the human body, since an orgasm involves blood, thoughts, muscles and nerves all working together.

For an erection to occur, brain and nerve impulses cause muscle chambers in the penis to relax, which allows for increased blood flow; more blood flow turns into intense pressure that causes the penis to expand.  Therefore, an erection is maintained because muscle chambers are trapping the extra blood flow. Should these muscle contract they lose hold of the blood, which then causes a penis to lose its erection, since blood flow is quickly released back into the body.

Many couples have discovered that a healthier lifestyle was a key to treating erectile dysfunction, while others swear by leading medications.  As more research is being done to learn about erectile dysfunction, we’ll undoubtedly learn more about different causes and improved treatments.  This is a very real condition that’s a part of our lives, so we should keep up with the latest news and advancements in treatments.