ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION
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What is erectile dysfunction/impotence? When a man
can't get an erection to have sex or can't keep an erection
long enough to finish having sex. It can occur at any age,
but it is more common in men older than 65.
Is erectile dysfunction just a part of old age? It
doesn't have to be. It's true that as you get older, you may
need more stimulation (such as stroking and touching) to get
an erection. But older men should still be able to get an
erection and enjoy sex.
What causes erectile dysfunction? The following are some
of the physical causes of erectile dysfunction:
- Alcohol and tobacco use or drug
abuse
- Fatigue
- Brain or spinal-cord injuries
- Hypogonadism (which leads to lower
testosterone levels)
- Liver or kidney failure
- Multiple sclerosis
- Parkinson's disease
- Radiation therapy to the testicles
- Stroke
- Some types of prostate or bladder
surgery
- Diabetes (high blood sugar)
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Atherosclerosis (hardening of the
arteries)
- Hormones get out of
balance
- Some medicines can cause erectile
dysfunction.
Feelings that can lead to erectile
dysfunction
- Feeling nervous about sex, perhaps
because of a bad experience or because of a previous
episode of impotence
- Feeling stressed, including stress
from work or family situations
- Being troubled by problems in your
relationship with your sex partner
- Feeling depressed
- Feeling so self-conscious that you
can't enjoy sex
- Thinking that your partner is
reacting negatively to you
How is erectile dysfunction diagnosed? Your doctor
will probably start by asking you some questions and doing a
physical exam. Samples of your blood and urine may be tested
for diseases and disorders. Other tests may also be needed.
Your doctor will determine which tests are right for
you.
Source: American Academy of
Family Physicians
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Ever try playing pool with a rope. -
"Shameless" TV show
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