Most cases of erectile dysfunction occur in men who once were able to sustain an erection. Whether ED is curable or reversible will depend greatly on what is causing it in the first place.
Causes of Erectile Dysfunction
The cause of erectile dysfunction and whether it is curable greatly depends on each individual patient. Oftentimes, ED is caused by some type of physical ailment that is not related directly to the penis. There are several conditions that may contribute to ED. Some of them are:
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Heart disease
- Obesity
- Metabolic syndrome
- Diabetes
Each of these medical conditions is dangerous in and of themselves. If you suffer from heart disease, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol, there are many other health conditions that can go along with it. Through diet and exercise, it is possible to lower your blood pressure or your cholesterol. If you are also experiencing symptoms of erectile dysfunction, these simple steps may also help improve blood flow, which may increase your chances of getting and maintaining an erection.
In addition to these medical conditions, there are some particular issues that may cause a man to have permanent ED. For example, a man who has pelvic surgery is more likely to suffer from ED. As with any type of surgery, there is a risk that the surrounding blood vessels and nerves will be injured. When the surgery is in the pelvic area, the nerves and blood vessels located near the penis could be damaged, causing erectile dysfunction.
Drug abuse, smoking, and alcohol abuse may also lead to a decline in erectile function.
Treating Erectile Dysfunction
There are several treatments available for ED. Most people have heard of Viagra®. This medication works by opening the blood vessels in the penis so that a better erection can be achieved. Using Viagra® does not offer a permanent solution. In addition, medications such as Viagra® and similar pills can have several side effects. Some of the side effects include diarrhea, headaches, facial flushing, nasal congestion, nausea, dizziness, and ringing in the ears.
A penis pump is another option for treating the symptoms of erectile dysfunction. The penis pump uses a tube that surrounds the penis. It is pumped until an erection occurs and then a ring is placed at the base of the penis to keep the erection. This method comes with side effects as well and is often uncomfortable. Once again, this is not a cure for erectile dysfunction, but a method to help with the symptoms.
Surgeries involving implants may be used to cure erectile dysfunction as well. However, these methods are invasive and come with the associated risks of surgery.
GAINSWave® Treatment For Erectile Dysfunction
GAINSWave® is a form of therapy that uses shockwave treatment to possibly cure erectile dysfunction. If you are suffering from ED as a result of low blood flow to the penis, GAINSWave® therapy may help to improve blood flow to the penis as it removes plaque buildup in the area. In addition, this technology helps with the growth of new blood vessels, which can reduce the symptoms of erectile dysfunction. Call your local GAINSWave® provider today to learn more about our therapy.
