Insufficient testosterone levels in the body can cause hypogonadism, which results when the testes decrease hormone production. Symptoms of this condition can include low libido, fatigue, and low sperm count. However, according to Reviews in Urology, disorders of the endocrine system rarely lead to erectile dysfunction (ED). Underlying conditions such as poor penile blood flow, plaque build-up, and penile scar tissue are more likely to contribute to a man’s difficulty in maintaining an erection.
Erectile dysfunction is a problem that impacts thousands of men nationwide yet is seldom discussed. In a study conducted by the Albert Einstein Medical Center, out of 500 male participants, only 44% reported symptoms of ED to their doctor. It’s not unusual to sometimes struggle to maintain an erection. However, if it becomes a consistent occurrence, medical intervention may be necessary. According to Harvard Health Publishing, ED becomes a concern if a man is unable to get an erection 25% of the time.
Advances in technology have made it possible to treat the conditions that result in ED. Such procedures can include hormone replacement therapy, oral medications, or GAINSWave® treatment. This therapy uses high-frequency, low-intensity soundwaves to stimulate penile blood flow and promote tissue growth.
Erectile Dysfunction Causes, Symptoms and Diagnosis
There are many possible causes of erectile dysfunction (ED). They can be physical, psychological, or a combination of both.
Some contributing factors of erectile dysfunction include:
- Stress and anxiety
- Hormonal imbalance
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol
- Obesity
- Excessive smoking
- Excessive drinking
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Metabolic syndrome
Only a medical professional can diagnose ED and administer a course of treatment. When a man is experiencing difficulties in sexual performance, a doctor will first conduct a physical exam to check for penile abnormalities such as a change in shape, scar tissue, or lumps beneath the skin. The caregiver may inject chemicals into the penis to stimulate an erection, which will provide more information regarding sexual function.
If necessary, a patient may also be asked to undergo imaging scans to provide more insight into the penis’s internal processes. Ultrasounds and x-rays can bring to light any issues regarding blood flow, blockages, or fibrosis.
Managing Hormonal Imbalances Contributing to ED
If a doctor suspects that a hormonal imbalance may be contributing to a patient’s ED, a blood panel will be ordered to check these levels. These blood tests don’t only measure testosterone levels. They can also measure the presence of cortisol, thyroid, and even estrogen. Depending on the results of these panels will allow a doctor to decide upon an effective course of action.
If it is found that hormonal imbalances affect erections, individuals may be prescribed a regimen that involves testosterone injections. Additionally, a patient may be advised to undergo a change in lifestyle, including a change in diet, exercise, and reduced alcohol consumption. Not only can this be found to reduce complications related to ED, but these changes can also have a positive effect on a man’s physical and psychological wellbeing.
Available Treatment for Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
The Asian Journal of Andrology reports that treatment for ED depends on its cause and may involve using a combination of different remedies.
These therapies may include:
- Medications
- Injections
- Surgery
- Psychological counseling
Depending on a man’s stage of life and overall wellbeing, some of these treatments may cause more problems than they solve.
However, as scientific advancements allow researchers to learn more about men’s sexual health, new therapies are emerging to address ED. GAINSWave® therapy treatment is a non-invasive procedure that utilizes low-intensity, high-frequency soundwaves to treat symptoms of ED. One of the benefits of this procedure is that it causes virtually no irritation. Numbing cream is applied to the penis beforehand to minimize any discomfort.
This therapy can work by:
- Using pulsating waves to dissolve plaque build-up resulting in increased blood flow to the penis.
- Stimulating the growth of new blood vessels.
- Triggering a healing response that promotes the growth of penile tissue.
Cambridge University reported that in their test group, patients showed improvement after six treatments.
For those seeking to optimize sexual performance, GAINSWave® therapy may prove to be a viable option for relieving symptoms of ED. For more information on the benefits of this revolutionary treatment, contact a GAINSWave® provider today.
