Image via Wikipedia

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is characterized by the inability to develop or maintain an erection at times when the presence of an erection is of great importance. An erection is formed as blood inflates sponge-like parts of the penis and is triggered generally by some sort of sexual stimuli. In those suffering from ED, this process has been hindered, and developments in medical science are telling doctors what can be done about it.

Causes

The causes of ED are many and include diabetes, smoking, drugs, psychological problems, and age. Recent developments suggest that excessive bicycle riding can put pressure on the penis that could lead to ED. The latest research suggests that the frequent use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen can increase the risk of developing ED.

Treatments

The treatments of ED are many. In the 1920s, Dr. John Brinkley experimented with treating impotence by implanting goat glands into afflicted men. He was stripped of his medical license. The latest and more popular treatments include exercise, pumps, therapies, surgeries, and medications.

Medications are the more popular option and can be obtained through an online Viagra pharmacy or a doctor. No scalpel or goat xenotransplantation involved.

Technically speaking, erectile dysfunction is the degradation of phosphodiesterase in the cyclic guanosine monophosphate of the corpus cavernosum of the penis. This can be caused by a variety of things. Drugs like Viagra block that degradation. ED sufferers can also obtain prescription Levitra online.

The Future

Continuing advancements in medical science promise future developments in the understanding of ED, its causes, and its treatments. That’s good news for anyone suffering from these symptoms.