Erectile dysfunction; two words you never want beside each other. When it’s mentioned we become silent and get awkward. The truth is about 30 million Americans suffer from erectile dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction is a topic that we try to avoid even when talking about it to doctors. So let’s talk about erectile dysfunction because what erectile dysfunction really means is in the back of every guys mind.

Basically erectile dysfunction is impotence; this is the failure to achieve or sustain an erection for satisfactory sexual intercourse. Try not to get confused with decreased libido and problems with orgasms and ejaculation because that is not part of erectile dysfunction.

If a man does bring up erectile dysfunction the common reply is “don’t worry it’s all in your head, it will go away over time.” If you’re wondering what causes erectile dysfunction doctors would say if it isn’t temporary then it’s a physiological issue. For an erection to occur it requires the interaction of your brain, nerves, hormones, and blood vessels. So anything that can affect any of those is a problem. The common issues that men face are diabetes, high blood pressure, poor blood flow, depression neurological disorders, certain medication like sleeping pills, antidepressants, nerve damage, nicotine, alcohol, cocaine, stress, fear and bad communication between your partner.

So now that you know more about erectile dysfunction and what it really is, the next step is figuring out what you can do about it. The first step to treat erectile dysfunction of course is to see a doctor and get an expert opinion. Generally if you are facing erectile dysfunction then try and make some life style changes first such as exercising more, having a better diet, and getting more sleep. Then move on to tackling those mental problems like what mentally could be causing your dysfunction and if you have a partner, finding better ways to communicate between the two of you. The next step would be taking erectile dysfunction medication such as phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors like Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra or prostaglandin E1 analogues like Caverject and Muse. There are other erectile dysfunction treatment options if taking pills aren’t your thing then you could using a penile implant, vacuum pump devices, or surgery.

The topic of erectile dysfunction is either on the down low or used as a joke. If you do suffer from erectile dysfunction and you’re confused, scared, and stressed you are not alone. Don’t let that deter you; summon the courage to talk to your doctor and educate yourself.