Erection is basically a reflex derived from spinal communication stimulated by visual, imaginary and olfactory stimuli. Once this communication is relayed, it causes contraction and relaxation in the penis. The level and length of erection determines if the penis is functioning normally. A healthy erection is sustained for a longer period of time.
It is achieved by a series of nerve stimulation, to nitric oxide secretion, resulting to penile erection and relaxation. Aside from this, testosterone levels and sufficient function of pituitary gland is needed for a normal and healthy erection. Let us check some of the disruptions to this process so we may understand further the actual causes of the different types of erectile dysfunction.
There are many causes of erectile dysfunction, ranging from psychogenic, organic or nervous system abnormalities. Psychogenic is physiological such as stress, organic is because of physical condition such as diabetes or heart disease and mental such as caused by stroke.
One recent findings show that RhoA/Rho kinase plays an important role in the function of corpus cavernosa to hold blood thus strengthening the muscle. Changes to the pathway will result to erectile dysfunction in patients with diabetes or vascular disease. Nitric Oxide is then important to achieve erection and maintain it. The medicine for erectile dysfunction such as Viagra has a nitrite oxide ingredient that aids in the erection. In fact, it is advised that if the patient is taking supplements with this element, he should not be taking Viagra for possible unpleasant side effects. Moreover, erectile dysfunction happens if the patient has reduced nerves and endothelium function which is due to aging, smoking, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, circulatory and changes in the tissues of the penis.
There are also studies that show that hypogonadism is observed in patients with ED. The lack of testosterone level in men does not cause penile erection. The solution to this is testosterone replacement therapy although this is a delicate procedure applicable only to younger patients with hypogonadism and with no sign of vascular risk. Viagra is rather recommended for aged men as this satisfies the physiological condition of this type of group.
Another cause of ED could be medication taken for high blood pressure such as antihypertensive, and some drugs that change the central nervous system may have influence in the erection by not supplying enough blood in the penis or by altering activities in the nerve that disrupts the erection process.
It was also found out that some surgeries and surgical procedures have influence on the erection process in the body. This is because some surgeries such as prostate gland removal due to cancer may possibly remove some parts of the anatomy necessary for erection. Other studies even shows that improper circumcision may cause ED due to some nerve disruption.
Another finding concluded that alcohol intake can cause ED. The alcohols taken may cause lack of blood supply necessary in the erection.
Lastly, an interesting fact about bicycling shows it cause ED. The hours allotted for biking causes pressure in the penis thus causing malfunction to erection.
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