Impotence is a term most commonly connected with male erectile dysfunction, or the inability to get or maintain an erection. However, impotence is more of a general term that can refer to several different problems a man may have that interfere with his sexual life. There are many causes of impotence, both physical and psychological, and there are treatments for impotence.
Impotence as it is usually termed in its most notable form is ercetile dysfunction. The most talked about cause of this type of impotence is age. Many men who experience healthy and active sexual lives throughout their lives experience impotence in their later years. While it is not guaranteed with age, many men experience impotence due to disease such as alcoholism, diabetes or multiple sclerosis. Or, impotence in the form of erectile dysfunction can be a side effect of medication. Common medications for blood pressure, depression and even appetite suppressants can have side effects that cause impotence.
Impotence in the form of erectile dysfunction can also be a result of damage to a part of the body seemingly unrelated to the penis. However, in order to achieve an erection, brain messages must make their way to the penis. If this process is interrupted or damaged due to surgery or injury, impotence may occur. This cause of impotence can occur to a man at any age.
It is also believed that psychological issues play a part in impotence. Men who suffer from depression, stress, anxiety and guilt may suffer from impotence. Most likely, a man with a physical cause of impotence will suffer psychological problems such as depression and stress, compounding the problem of impotence. Impotence can also be the result of decreased sexual desire.
Impotence, as erectile dysfunction, can only be diagnosed by a physician. Through routine blood tests and a physical examination, a doctor can rule out other diseases and causes and begin to treat impotence.
Psychotherapy may be prescribed for treatment of impotence that is psychologically related. A man who suffers anxiety during sexual intercourse or whose daily stresses are causing his impotence may benefit from this course of action.
The most common treatment for impotence is through the use of oral medication. Medications such as Viagra and Levitra relax the penis to allow for better blood flow to the penis. This allows the penis to become engorged with blood, and a man can achieve an erection. There are many side effects to the drugs, however, and they can interact unfavorably with other medications.
Other options include drug injections directly into the penis or even a pellet that is inserted into the urethra. Again, both courses of action have side effects that should be taken into consideration.
Men who do not wish to be treated medically for impotence may try the use of a vacuum device that stimulates blood flow to the penis.
A final option for treating impotence is surgery. If the cause of impotence is physical and correctable, surgery may be available.
