Published on Jan 05, 2018 and last reviewed on Nov 18, 2022 - 5 min read
Abstract
Erectile dysfunction is the inability to keep an erection during intercourse. Read this article to know the condition and treatment related to it.
Erectile dysfunction is an inability to get or sustain an erection firm enough for sexual activity. In easy terms, it is a problem where the male partner cannot keep the erection firm during sex. Erectile dysfunction has now become a prominent problem in this era. Statistically speaking, 152 million men are affected worldwide. Having erection trouble from time to time is not a matter of concern, however, if it is an ongoing issue, it is concerning. It can affect the self-confidence of the patient and can cause relationship issues.
Erectile dysfunction can also be associated with an underlying health condition that needs to be treated. It is not considered normal at any age and has to be treated as it is associated with other health issues.
Some groups of people who are more likely to develop erectile dysfunction include -
Older people.
People who have certain medical conditions.
Psychological or emotional issues.
Overweight.
Excessive smoking.
The penis is usually small and flaccid in normal conditions with a normal blood supply. However, during sexual arousal, the muscular chamber (corpus spongiosum) opens up, and there is a rush of blood to the chamber, making it hard. After sexual activities, the blood supply is normal again and returns to normal size.
Sexual arousal in males is a complex process comprising the brain, hormones, emotions, nerves, muscles, and blood vessels. A problem with any of these can lead to erectile dysfunction. Moreover, conditions like stress and mental health can worsen the situation. Therefore, physical and psychological issues can lead to erectile dysfunction.
Physical Causes of Erectile Dysfunction -
Heart disease.
High cholesterol.
Clogged blood vessels (atherosclerosis).
Diabetes.
Obesity.
Metabolic syndrome (a condition with increased blood pressure, high insulin levels, body fat, and high cholesterol).
Parkinson's disease (a progressive disease that affects the nervous system and movements of the body leading to tremors or shaking).
Multiple sclerosis (a condition in which immune system cells attack nerves of the body).
Tobacco use.
Peyronie's disease (development of scar tissue inside the penis).
Alcoholism and other types of harmful substance abuse, such as cocaine.
Sleep disorders.
Low testosterone level.
Treatments for prostate cancer.
Surgeries or injuries that affect the pelvic area or spinal cord.
Certain medications, such as -
Diuretics (pills increase urine flow).
Antihypertensives (high blood pressure drugs).
Antihistamines (drugs used for allergies).
Parkinson's disease drugs.
Antiarrhythmics (a drug for irregular heart action).
Antidepressants.
Muscle relaxants.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Hormones.
Chemotherapy medications.
Prostate cancer drugs.
Anti-seizure medications.
Psychological causes of erectile dysfunction -
The brain plays an important role in initiating the physical events leading to sexual excitement and erection. In addition to that, various things can interfere with the sexual feelings of a person, which include -
Stress.
Relationship conflicts.
Stress at home or work.
Worry about sex performance.
In this system of medicine, erectile dysfunction can be easily treated by managing the underlying cause, counseling the couples, and helping them overcome this issue. Some of the homeopathic medicines that can be used in the treatment of erectile dysfunction include -
1. Agnus Castus (Common Name - Chaste Tree)
This is an effective homeopathic remedy for treating sexual problems in both men and women. It effectively treats conditions such as erectile dysfunction where the man has aged prematurely, which means the genitals become flaccid and cold at an early age. The reason behind this can be excessive sexual drive, alcohol, and smoking. In addition, Agnus castus helps improve testosterone levels and increase libido (sexual desire).
2. Caladium -
It is useful in cases where the genitals of men become completely limp or flaccid, even with sexual desire. Nocturnal emissions (nightfall) can occur without the erection, whether the dream is related to sex or not. Chronic smokers are the most commonly affected people with such erection issues. These types of patients are treated with this medicine.
3. Lycopodium -
This is an effective homeopathic medicine for erectile dysfunction because of psychological issues such as stress, anxiety, and depression. People affected with these conditions usually lack self-confidence and are insecure about their performance, which causes problems with erections. Lycopodium helps in managing stress levels and helps improve the condition of erectile dysfunction.
4. Selenium Metallicum -
This remedy has amazing results for people who desire sex but do not have the strength to do sexual activities. This usually occurs after a fever or illness and results in weak erections and premature ejaculation. Therefore, Selenium Metallicum helps in improving the energy levels, erections, and performance of the man.
5. Argentum Nitricum -
This is prescribed in cases where the man has a problem maintaining an erection when sexual intercourse is attempted. This can occur due to problems like nervousness, and it can worsen the condition of thinking about erection issues. Therefore, Argentum Nitricum can help with erectile issues and also help in cases where some man feels pain while having intercourse.
6. Causticum -
This medicine is indicated in cases where a person has diminished sexual urges or libido, reduced sexual pleasure, tiredness, and fatigue. Causticum helps increase energy levels and sexual drive, which helps in enhancing performance and leads to increased sexual pleasure and treating erectile dysfunction.
7. Staphysagria -
This medicine is administered in cases of erectile dysfunction where the man is very gentle, shy, or emotional. People with a history of mental, physical, or emotional abuse also respond well to this medicine. Therefore it helps in treating the psychological causes of erectile dysfunction. Moreover, it strengthens the sexual organs and helps in keeping the erection for a longer duration.
Things to do to prevent erectile dysfunction -
Take a healthy diet.
Wear comfortable clothes that allow air circulation.
Reduce cholesterol intake because high cholesterol can narrow or block the arteries (atherosclerosis), leading to the penis.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Exercise regularly.
Things to avoid to prevent erectile dysfunction -
Avoid caffeinated drinks.
Reduce the excessive intake of sugar and salt.
Avoid wearing clothes that restrict air circulation.
Avoid old cheese and stale meats.
Avoid spicy dishes and sauces, spiced chocolate, and medicinal herbs.
Conclusion:
Erectile dysfunction can cause affect the mental and physical well-being of a person. It is necessary to seek medical advice as soon as possible. It can be treated by various methods, such as hormone replacement therapy, and surgery may also be needed in rare cases. Homeopathic treatment can also be used to treat this condition, as the medicines used are made from natural substances and have very low side effects on the body.
Last reviewed at:
18 Nov 2022 - 5 min read
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Dr. Siddiqui Adnan Reyaz Ahmed
Homeopathy
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