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Erectile Dysfunction and its Effects

Erectile dysfunction is the consistent or recurrent inability of a man to attain or maintain a penile erection that is sufficient for sexual performance. As erectile dysfunction is an extremely private matter, the topic is fast becoming less taboo and is talked about more often now than ever. It is estimated that erectile dysfunction affects more than one half of all men over the age of 40, yet despite the high numbers, 9 out of 10 men in the United States have not yet sought treatment from a physician. Erectile dysfunction has been found to be three times more prevalent among men diagnosed with diabetes than in the general population. The onset of erectile dysfunction is found in half of men with diabetes within ten years of their diagnoses and it can occur in 9% of men with diabetes between the ages of 20 and 29 and rises to 95% by the age of 70.

The available drugs have slightly different chemical compositions that affect how well they work, how quickly it takes for them to work, and how long it takes for them to wear off. No studies have been done to date to determine which drug works best for men of differing ages or with differing medical conditions. Viagra, Levitra, and Cialis all have potential side effects, including headaches, stuffy or runny nose, upset stomach, may cause dizziness, diarrhea, and muscle aches. The medications include several warnings, which your doctor will discuss in further detail upon prescribing. Several factors may affect your choice of medication, including how well your body may respond to one drug over another and how long you want the effects of each dose to last. The best option is to discuss with your doctor your personal preferences which will help you to decide which of these medications may best work for you.

When a man or woman loses a loving sexual relationship due to erectile dysfunction they may choose to withhold their partner from any other type of sexual experience. Sometimes potency problems are a cover for more serious emotional or relationship issues and those issues may need to take priority before focusing on the erectile dysfunction issues. Couples can benefit by opening the lines of communication about sex and learning how best to utilize their capabilities to communicate. Counseling may be the best tool to rekindle the romance and redirect energies within the relationship. Seeing a physician to discuss treatment options regarding erectile dysfunction may also be quite beneficial. A man may find this emasculating, but discussing it with an objective party may help to assist both the man and the woman.

There are two types of cancer most likely to be associated with erectile dysfunction. These two types of cancer are prostate cancer and cancer of the lower bowel. It is more common for the cancer treatments for these cancers to cause erectile dysfunction than for the cancer itself to cause it. There are hundreds of different types of cancer and while there have been many treatments found, most men are most alarmed by the possibility of erectile dysfunction. Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men and the frequency is increasing. During the initial period of anxiety caused by erectile dysfunction, some people find the intimacy of sex a comfort.