All treatments for erectile dysfunction: From implants to shock waves

The achievement of good erection, in order to be satisfactory, concerns men in particular. It depends largely on their confidence and quality of life. Erectile dysfunction causes anxiety, guilt and fear while in sexual partners anxiety, questioning and even anger. Direct and very frequent consistency is disruption of relationship and not only sexual life. Stress in everyday life as well as lack of emotional communication can lead to separation if there is no proper and timely response to the causes of the condition. “Esthetic dysfunction is a frequent condition that can hinder sexual activity. The percentage of men who present it increases with age. A study review showed that prevalence in men under 49 is 6% and in the ages of 50-59 years reaches 16%. Over the next decade of life the rate doubles (32%) and in those who go through the eighth decade of their lives reaches 44%. It is estimated that half men between the ages of 40 and 70 have experienced cases of erectile dysfunction in their lives,” notes Surgeon Andrologist Urologist Dr Anastasios Livianios. The causes of erectile dysfunction are organic, psychogenic or a combination of both. Regardless of its reason for appearance, the psychosocial impact is so intense, that the need for treatment must exceed any inhibitions that exist. Deep down, those who regularly experience weakness of erection, are troubled, feel less masculine, angry, see their confidence shattered. They are overwhelmed by feelings of guilt or shame. They are very likely to experience stress for long periods of time, even depression. They feel weakened and humiliated. In insecure people, these feelings are huge and may even lead to suicidal tendencies when erectile dysfunction is timing. They also fear that they cannot please their sexual partners, that they are disappointed and that the relationship will be brought to an end sooner or later. These thoughts and emotions lead to several interruptions of sexual intercourse, in order to avoid the distress of failure, but also the need to discuss the problem. For unbound, erectile dysfunction can limit the search for a partner and lead to isolation and loneliness. Their first thought is that they are rejected, that something changed in the emotions of the man, that they are no longer attractive and desirable and that is why the man will soon defect. These thoughts quickly become beliefs with also frequent consequence of the occurrence of insecurities for the body and outward appearance. None of the above, however, happens most of the time. The inability to get an erection is not a sign of lack of sexual interest or extramarital or parallel relationship. “For erectile dysfunction may be responsible for a number of factors. It can be caused by hypertension, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases, chronic kidney and liver disease, multiple sclerosis, Peyronie disease, low testosterone levels or penis injury. It may be the result of side effects of certain drugs or abuse of alcohol and tobacco products. Very often it is the result of psychological factors such as professional stress or grief. Nevertheless, the inability to achieve or maintain erection is addressed. Diagnosis does not mean the end of a relationship, but the beginning of a period that will require communication, patience and understanding from both parties until the cause of it is found and addressed,” he notes. The treatments are many. The determination of the appropriate presupposes the taking of the man’s medical and sexual history, clinical examination in order to identify any abnormalities in the penis, scrotum or testicles, as well as to check the condition of the prostate. The picture of general health and possible causes of erectile dysfunction is completed with blood tests, which give the first assessment of pathology behind the symptom. Further imaging examinations and cooperation with doctors of other disciplines, such as cardiologist, endocrinologist or psychologist, may be required. For the remission of the symptom, i.e. erectile dysfunction, non-invasive treatments, such as oral administration of medicines or hormones, injectable medicines and suppositories, are usually sufficient. To temporarily maintain the erection there are vacuum devices that draw blood on the penis. For a more permanent solution in chronic cases, which are not treated conservatively, surgical placement of implants in the penis is recommended, which make it possible to maintain the erection of the penis during sex. In patients with erectile angioedema dysfunction there is the choice of shock waves, which are particularly effective because they cure the cause of the problem. In 80% of cases the ability to achieve erection comes back in just one month and is exempted from the need for medication. This is a permanent solution, with results that last forever. “The treatment of the condition with or without drugs, using shock waves, with or without injections requires the patient only three things: the desire to improve sex life, the aside of shame, and the decision to seek help. After diagnosis, the individualized treatment plan is designed by an interdisciplinary team, including a specialist in erectile psychologist dysfunction issues. Through consultative meetings, in which partners can participate, they can analyse and address all the psychological problems that have arisen and dissolve any “ clouds” in the relationship. After all, good communication and frank conversation with responsibility between partners combined with an increase in physical intimacy and the support of the partner, reassures both and builds strong relationships. Erectile dysfunction does not have to mean the beginning of the end of sex life, love relationship or marriage. Exploration is needed and sex life will be satisfying for many years to come,” concludes Dr. Livianios.