Of all the conditions out there, erectile dysfunction can cause one inferiority complex and psychological problems. This condition is quite common in men above the age of forty-five. Although it is not a life-threatening medical condition, it can cause great discomfort and problems for men.

As a medical condition, erectile dysfunction can be described or characterized as the inability and incapability to develop and maintain an erection successfully. Failure to get or maintain an erection a few times cannot be termed as erectile dysfunction. However, when the condition is persistent and consistent for a prolonged period of time, it could be erectile dysfunction. One should seriously consider visiting their doctor in such cases. Failure to reach out to your doctor at the right time can only worsen the condition.

As frightening as it may be, it is a very common phenomenon that affects many men. As per the reports published by the School of Public Health, it is estimated that about more than 18 million men over the age of 20 in the country itself suffer from this condition.

Thankfully research has led to new and more effective treatment options. Inculcating aerobic exercises, stopping tobacco and alcohol consumption, taking regular medications and surgical intervention are a few treatment options available.

Before coming up with a treatment option, the doctor needs to diagnose the patient and identify the exact reason or cause of the condition. The doctors may start out with a questionnaire and survey, where they probe the patients for elaborate details to clinically assess the condition along with blood and urine tests. This is done to ascertain whether the condition can be due to psychological, neurological, or cardiovascular diseases. Most of the time, it has been found the erectile dysfunction is just a symptom of a more serious underlying medical illness. Hence, it is necessary to diagnose every possible aspect.

The symptoms of erectile dysfunction are few. They are:

• Constant and persistent trouble in developing an erection
• Constant and persistent trouble in keeping an erection
• Reduction in sexual drive

The treatment options for this condition include:

• Medications, such as Viagra, Levitra, Stendra, Cialis, etc, are prescription drugs taken orally to increase the blood flow in the penis.
• Penis pump or vacuum erection device
• Surgery, which involves surgically placing implants on both the sides of the penis.

Although these medications are available over the counter, it is advisable to not consume them without consulting a doctor. If someone has an underlying condition, these medications could further trigger it, leading to serious health complications.

Erectile dysfunction is common in men who are above 45 and one should not panic as many treatments can help them overcome this condition easily.