What is Erectile Dysfunction (ED)?

Erectile Dysfunction (ED), also known as impotence, is defined as the point in which a man is unable to get or maintain an erection. It is a common condition affecting many men, with recent statistics showing that as many as 1 in 10 men suffer, worldwide. ED can be linked to physical, emotional or environmental factors. ED can be mild, in which a man cannot maintain an erection or ‘complete’, where a man cannot achieve an erection at all.

As mentioned, Erectile Dysfunction is very common and a large proportion of men suffer from or have suffered from it. Despite its prevalence and it being so common amongst men, it is still widely not spoken about and men are still very much embarrassed to bring it up. This can create a negative feedback loop in which the erectile dysfunction is worsened through the emotional frustration and embarrassment associated with ED.

What Causes Erectile Dysfunction (ED)?

ED or impotence can be caused by many different factors; however, impotence is most commonly caused by an overall reduction in the blood flow to the penis as a result of ageing. ED may also be caused by conditions, which affect the central nervous system such as spinal cord injuries, multiple-sclerosis (MS) or Parkinson’s disease. High blood pressure, obesity, diabetes and high levels of some type’s cholesterol may also contribute to ED.

Other medical conditions can bring on ED such as prostate cancer or various medical treatments. In some instances, starting new medications can cause ED as a side-effect, if you do notice you are having trouble getting or maintaining an erection after starting a new medication, inform your doctor so this can be further investigated.

Hormones and lifestyle factors also play a large role in ED. Lifestyle choices such as smoking, excessive drinking and obesity have shown to increase the likelihood of a mad experiencing ED. Having low testosterone is also a factor which can stop you from achieving or maintaining a hard erection. If you believe you do have low testosterone levels, it is best to get tested as soon as possible.

Studies have shown that the most common cause of impotence in younger men is linked to mental and emotional factors such as depression, stress and anxiety. Other causes include relationship problems or the inability to communicate how you are feeling about your condition, which will cause you to think about it and internalise it further, and potentially make it worse.

How Can I Treat Erectile Dysfunction (ED)?

There are several documented successful and unsuccessful treatments for ED, however it is advised that prior to trying any type of pharmacological intervention it is best to make lifestyle changes such as exercising daily, maintaining a healthy diet, cutting down alcohol intake or stopping smoking if you do smoke. If all of this has been attempted, then generally you will be prescribed a medication to help with your ED.

The medication available for Erectile Dysfunction all work in a similar type of way, however are broken down in your body differently to give you a shorter or longer effect. The most commonly used treatment for ED is Viagra (active ingredient: Sildenafil). Sildenafil starts working 30 minutes to 1 hour after taking it and will last, on average, for 4-5 hours depending on how much food you’ve had or how much you weigh.

The other medication that is becoming more and more popular is Cialis (active ingredient: Tadalafil). Tadalafil works in the same way as Sildenafil, however it has earned the accolade of being called ‘the weekend drug’, this is because it stays active in your system for an average amount of time for 36 hours. This does not mean that you will have an erection for 36 hours straight, it means that for 36 hours it will be much easier for you to achieve and maintain an erection on stimulation.

If you would like advice on what treatment may be best for you, please do not hesitate in contacting us and our doctors or pharmacists will be able to guide you through the process of choosing the right treatment for you. Cloud Pharmacy offers a convenient service, which allows you to obtain a prescription from a UK registered doctor and have it delivered to your door in under 24 hours in discreet packaging.