Six common treatments for erectile dysfunction

There are various health conditions that cause erectile dysfunction. The conditions that cause erectile dysfunction are needed to be treated and taken care of so that the condition of erectile dysfunction does not worsen. Depending on what causes the severity of erectile dysfunction and any underlying medical condition, there are a variety of treatment options that are available. The doctor can help in understanding the potential risks and benefits of each treatment and help in choosing the right one accordingly.

Oral medications

The primary treatment option that is considered for erectile dysfunction is oral medication. It has been considered a successful treatment option for many men. Some of the common oral medications that are used to treat erectile dysfunction are Tadalafil (Adcirca, Cialis), Avanafil (Stendra), Vardenafil (Levitra, Staxyn), and Sildenafil (Viagra). All the four medications help to enhance the effects of nitric oxide. Nitric oxide is a natural chemical in the body that relaxes the muscles in the penis. It also increases the blood flow and allows one to get an erection in response to sexual stimulation. However, taking one of these tablets is not going to automatically produce an erection but after the sexual stimulation is caused, the nitric oxide is released from the penile nerves. Allowing some men to help function normally, these medications amplify the release of nitric oxide. The medications have different variations depending on dosage, how long do they work, and their side effects. Some of the common side effects of oral medications are a headache, flushing, backache, upset stomach, visual changes, and nasal congestion. A patient’s individual condition is considered to determine which medication will work for him the best. However, these medications do not treat erectile dysfunction immediately, and the right medication and proper dosage are needed to achieve a relevant result.  It is necessary to consult the doctor and only consume the oral medications that are prescribed by the doctor. Also, oral medications might not be effective for all men and especially, men who are struggling with a condition like a post-prostate surgery or diabetes. Some oral medications for prostate cancer can be dangerous if one takes nitrate drugs that are commonly prescribed for chest pain, someone who is dealing with low blood pressure, or have an existing heart condition.

Penis pumps

A penis pump is also known as a vacuum erection device that is a hollow tube that is hand-powered or has a battery-powered pump. The tube is placed over the penis and is used to stuck out air inside the tube. This helps to create a vacuum that helps to pull blood into the penis. Once the erection is achieved, one can simply slip a tension ring around the base of the penis and help to hold in the blood and keep it firm. After this, one can remove the vacuum device. The tension ring is needed to be removed after the intercourse. However, a possible side effect of using penis pumps is bruising and also the band can restrict ejaculation. A doctor will prescribe a penis pump if the personal situation of the patient needs it.  There are various models of penis pumps that are available, and the doctor will prescribe the right one that suits the needs of the patient.

Penis implants surgery

This surgery involves placing a device on both sides of the penis, and these implants consist of either malleable (bendable) or inflatable rods. The malleable rods help to keep the penis firm but bendable at the same time. Whereas, inflatable rods help to have a control as to how, when, and for how long can one have an erection. Penis implants are usually not the first choice of treatments and are not preferred unless other treatments are tried and haven’t worked out. Men who have tried and failed the conservative therapies have experienced a high degree of satisfaction with penis implants. However, the surgery does have complications like the risk of an infection.

Alprostadil self-injection

This treatment is conducted by using a fine needle to inject alprostadil into the base or the side of the penis. The injection dose helps to create an erection that lasts longer than an hour. Some of the side effects of this injection are mild bleeding from the injection, formation of fibrous tissues at the injection site, and prolonged erection.

Testosterone replacement

Some men experience the condition of erectile dysfunction because of the low levels of the testosterone hormones. A testosterone replacement therapy might be recommended as the primary treatment in such condition along with a combination of other treatments and therapies.

Psychological counseling

If the cause of erectile dysfunction is stress, depression, or anxiety, then psychological counseling is one of the therapy that proves to be an effective treatment. If there is any condition that is creating stress or relationship tension, the doctor might suggest the patient visit a counselor or a psychologist.