WoW Health is a simple, membership-based healthcare solution - not insurance.

WoW Health is a simple, membership-based healthcare solution - not insurance.
Understanding Erectile Dysfunction: Causes, Symptoms and Cures

| Awareness

Understanding Erectile Dysfunction: Causes, Symptoms and Cures

 

Erectile dysfunction or impotence is male sexual health problem in which sometimes or often men are unable to get or keep an erection firm enough for sexual activity. It is also defined as a condition when a man’s penis doesn’t become or stay hard enough for sex.

 

It’s more common as men get older, over half of men aged 40 to 70 may have some form of ED. But it’s nothing to be ashamed of, many men go through it, and now with advancement of medical science there are many effective erectile dysfunction treatments available such as P-Shot therapy, exosome therapy, stem cell and shockwave therapy for ED.

Erectile dysfunction treatment also includes pills, devices (vacuum pump, injections, implants), counseling, surgery or lifestyle improvements.

 

Causes of ED - How Does ED Happen


There are many physical,environmental and psychological factors that can lead to erection inability in men. Most commonly includes:

1. Problems with Blood Flow


Good blood flow is important for firm erection. Blocked or damaged blood vessels due to formation of plaque, any heart problem, high bp, high cholesterol level or high blood sugar level can lead to poor blood circulation resulting in erection problems. 

2. Nerve Problems


Erectile disorders also occur when your brain does not send proper signals to  penis to get an erection. It can occur due to nerve damage, stroke, any brain injury or multiple sclerosis.

3. Hormone Changes


Deficiency of testosterone - male sex hormones in the body also result in poor erection. It can occur due to thyroid problems.

4. Emotions and Thoughts


Different psychological factors like stress, performance anxiety, low self confidence, or relationship problems can also result in poor erection.

5. Injuries or Surgeries


Accidents, surgery, or radiation in the pelvic area can also lead to male sexual dysfunction.

6. Medications and Substances


Erection problems can also occur as after effects of some medication like bp medicines,antidepressants, antihistamines or cancer medicines. Smoking alcohol consumption, or other drug intake can also result in erectile disability.

 

Symptoms of ED


These are the common signs of ED:

 

  • Sometimes you can’t get an erection.


  • Or you get one but it doesn’t stay long enough.


  • Or you can’t get an erection at all.


  • Sometimes you might need much stronger excitement to get one.


Diagnosis 


A Urologist or male health specialist will ask about health and do tests like blood work or physical exams to find what’s causing ED. Knowing the cause helps pick the best erectile dysfunction treatment.

 

Erectile Dysfunction Treatments


There are many erectile dysfunction treatments that can help men suffering from serious or long-term erection problems. These treatments help to improve blood flow to the penis, repair damaged tissues and improve natural healing in the penis.  

1. Medicine (Pills Called PDE-5 Inhibitors)


Medications are first line treatment for ED. Doctors commonly prescribe:

  • Sildenafil (Viagra)

  • Tadalafil (Cialis)

  • Vardenafil (Levitra)

  • Avanafil (Spedra)


 

These medicines help to improve blood flow to the penis. You can take them before sexual intercourse as per doctor prescription. They show fast results usually in 1 hour.

 

2. P-Shot (Platelet-Rich Plasma Injection)


PShot therapy  uses platelet-rich plasma (PRP) that is taken from a patient’s own blood to improve erection quality, increase sensitivity, and support natural sexual function.

In the process blood is drawn, spun in a centrifuge machine to separate platelets that are injected in the penis via injection. Platelets are made up of growth factors that repair and grow tissue, enhance blood flow, and work to assist nerves to function correctly. 

Since it uses the patient’s own blood, it is considered safe with very little risk of side effects.

As patients own blood is used, it is mainly a safe treatment with very little risk factors.

 

3. Shockwave Therapy


Shockwave therapy for ED  is a non-surgical treatment where low intensity shockwaves are delivered to the penis to improve blood circulation and stimulate new blood vessel growth.

Poor blood flow is one of the biggest causes of ED. This therapy directly targets that issue.

It is a painless process with no drugs required and provides long-lasting improvements in erection strength.

 

4. Stem Cell Therapy


Stem cells are special cells that can grow into different types of tissues. Stem cells (often taken from bone marrow or fat) are injected into the penis to help repair damaged tissues and nerves.

It encourages natural healing and regeneration of blood vessels and penile tissue. Helps to  restore natural erections with long-term improvement rather than temporary results.

 

5. Exosome Therapy


Stem cells produce exosomes, which are small messengers that carry healing messages. They are injected into the penis, where they promote tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and improve cell communication.

Like stem cells, exosomes help the body heal itself, especially the delicate blood vessels and nerves in the penis.

Exosomes are a non-surgical therapy that promotes long term penile health and restore natural erection function.

 

6. Counselling 


When erection problems are caused due to mental health (stress, anxiety) and relationship problems a counsellor, psychologist, or sex therapist can help  with different talking therapies like CBT, Sex Therapy or Couple Therapy.

Why ED Is a Signal

ED can be an early warning sign of serious health issues may include heart disease or diabetes. That’s why it is important to consult a specialist as soon as possible to get the best suitable treatment on time to keep the whole body healthy.

 

FAQs


1. Is erectile dysfunction permanent?


Not always. It can be treated with different medicines, psychological therapies, lifestyle changes or advanced treatments. Men who have serious erection problems can require long term treatment but it is not a permanent problem.  

 

2. Can ED be caused by stress and anxiety?


Yes, good mental condition is very important for erection function, Different mental health problems like stress and anxiety can make it difficult for men to get an erection even if he is physically and medically fit. Different psychological therapies can help in this condition.

 

3. At what age does ED usually start?


There is no specific age for ED, it can happen at any age, but according to study it is reported most among men above 40. It is also reported in young adults in their late 20s due to stress, hormonal problems or unhealthy life patterns.

 

4. What is the safest first treatment for ED?


Most doctors will say a healthy lifestyle change (exercise, healthy food choices, stop smoking), then medications like Viagra or Cialis if needed. The safest treatment depends on the individual’s health status.

 

5. When should I see a doctor about ED?


If ED occurs frequently, is still around after a few weeks, or is getting in between your relationship or confidence, go to the doctor. ED can sometimes be an early warning sign for heart disease or a sign of diabetes, or other health problems