Impotence Disease

BASICS

DESCRIPTION

Erectile problems (dysfunction), or impotence, is the dissatisfaction with size, rigidity, or duration of erection. Includes problems of arousal, desire, orgasm, sensation, and relationships. Temporary periods of impotence occur in about half of adult males and are not abnormal.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Reduction of erectile size and rigidity
Inability to maintain or achieve an erection
Reduced body hair
Breast growth
Testicular atrophy or absence
Deformed penis
Vascular disease
Nerve disease

CAUSES

Endocrine
Neurologic
Vascular
Medication
Psychological
Structural

RISK FACTORS

Pelvic surgery
Medication
Disorders listed in Causes

DIAGNOSIS

WHAT THE DOCTOR LOOKS FOR

The doctor will perform a complete physical examination to identify causes of erectile dysfunction, such as hormone, neurological, vascular, and psychological disorders or drug side effects.

TESTS AND PROCEDURES

Blood tests
Special nerve tests may be performed.
Tests may be performed to assess penile blood flow.
Ultrasound may be used to assist in diagnosis.

TREATMENT

GENERAL MEASURES

Erectile dysfunction is managed by a primary care provider in an outpatient setting.
Therapy includes vacuum erectile devices, sensate focus therapy, injection therapy, and penile implants.
Reduce performance pressure.
Psychiatrists, psychologists, sex therapists, vascular surgeons, urologists, endocrinologists, neurologists, plastic surgeons, etc., may be consulted for cases that do not improve with therapy.

ACTIVITY

No restrictions

DIET

Control diabetes if present.

FOLLOW UP

PREVENTION/AVOIDANCE

Sex therapist or marriage counselor may help to speed recovery and prevent future problems.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

Testosterone cypionate
Bromocriptine
Penile injection of phentolamine and papaverine
Alprostadil (Caverject)
Sildenafil (Viagra)

WHAT TO EXPECT

Since the cause of erectile dysfunction is unspecified for most men, vacuum erection device, injection therapy, and penile implants have improved the outlook greatly.
Vacuum erection device fails in about 20% of cases.
Many men stop injection therapy.
10 to 30% of men with penile implants don't use them.
About 15% of men improve spontaneously.

MISCELLANEOUS

PREGNANCY

N/A

OTHER NOTES

N/A

Clinical Investigations

ROLE OF HOMOEOPATHY

Holistic healing that treats the person, not just the disease. Experience gentle, lasting wellness with expert constitutional care.