There are a number of factors in a man's body that play a role in forming an erection. It is a combination of physical properties such as the nerves, muscles, and blood vessels as well as mental and chemical attributes involving the brain, hormones, and emotions. A problem with any of these factors can lead to one of the three main symptoms of erectile dysfunction:
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Being unable to get an erection
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Being unable to maintain an erection
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Experiencing a loss of sexual desire
Erectile dysfunction can lead to feelings of embarrassment, insecurity, and even depression. If you're suffering from this condition, you are not alone. Erectile dysfunction affects an estimated 30 million men in the United States alone.
Erectile Dysfunction Causes
A major cause of erectile dysfunction is low testosterone. As doctors learn more about your body's hormones and how they work, evidence points to hormonal imbalance as an ED cause. Low testosterone, among many other debilitating symptoms, can damage a man's sex drive and erectile function.
Some of the other causes of erectile dysfunction include:
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Depression
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Anxiety
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Relationship problems
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Heart disease
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High cholesterol
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High blood pressure
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Diabetes
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Obesity
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Nerve damage
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Medications like antidepressants or antihistamines
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Medical treatments like prostate surgery or radiation therapy
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Tobacco
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Alcohol or drug use
Erectile Dysfunction Testing
Diagnosing the cause of erectile dysfunction involves a blood or urine test to seek evidence of low testosterone and other physical factors. Your doctor will also inspect your reproductive organs to seek out any problems related to blood flow or nerve functions. The tests could be done visually or with the use of ultrasound technology.
We may also recommend an overnight erection test. While sleeping, a man may experience multiple erections without realizing it. If an erection occurs during this test it would further distinguish whether the problem is caused by a physical condition or an emotional one.
Erectile Dysfunction Treatment
If it is determined that your condition is the result of low testosterone, a doctor will likely recommend BHRT, or bio-identical hormone replacement. This safe, cutting-edge treatment uses testosterone that's chemically identical to that your body produces naturally.
Other treatments for erectile dysfunction include:
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Lifestyle changes
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Prescription medications
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Therapy
Feel Like You Again
Erectile dysfunction can damage your confidence and your relationship. Low testosterone may be the cause, and BHRT may be the cure. To get started with testosterone replacement therapy, call 859-554-0519.