Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is a sexual health problem where a man cannot obtain or sustain a firm erection during sexual intercourse.
It is a common sexual health issue affecting males of any age. Although, it seems more common in aged men.
When the arteries and/or veins that carry blood to and from the penis are not working correctly because of blockages, constriction, or other physiological factors, it is called Vasculogenic Erectile Dysfunction.
This article will teach you about Vasculogenic ED, its causes, symptoms, and effective treatment methods.
What causes Vasculogenic ED
Vasculogenic Erectile Dysfunction is caused by problems with the blood arteries that deliver blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation.
Conditions like Diabetes, Atherosclerosis, peripheral vascular disease, and Hypertension can contribute to this type of Erectile Dysfunction.
Atherosclerosis
It is the accumulation of plaque (fatty deposits) inside the arteries, which narrows them and inhibits blood flow.
Atherosclerosis can impair the arteries that supply blood to the penis, resulting in decreased blood flow and difficulty obtaining an erection.
Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD)
It is a disorder that affects the blood vessels located outside the heart and brain, typically in the legs and limbs.
PVD can contribute to Vasculogenic ED when it involves the blood vessels supplying blood to the penis.
According to WebMD, up to 50% to 70% of men with ED may have PAD as the underlying reason.
Hypertension
Hypertension can harm blood vessels, including those in the penis.
Elevated blood pressure can create structural changes and hinder blood vessel function, resulting in decreased blood flow.
As a result, high blood pressure can cause Erectile Dysfunction.
Diabetes
Diabetes and Erectile Dysfunction are often linked to each other.
High blood sugar levels affect the blood arteries feeding the penis, resulting in decreased blood flow and diminished erectile function.
Smoking
It raises the risk of Vasculogenic ED significantly. Tobacco use harm the inner lining of blood vessels.
Further, it can cause plaque development and constricts blood vessels. This results in decreased blood supply to the penis.
Obesity
Excessive body weight is linked to various health problems, including high blood pressure, Diabetes, and Atherosclerosis.
Research has linked Obesity to Erectile Dysfunction and reduced sexual function.
By affecting blood vessel health and limiting blood flow, these variables might lead to Vasculogenic ED.
Aging
It results in the loss of elasticity of blood vessels, making them more prone to plaque formation.
Changes in blood vessels with age might lead to Vasculogenic ED.
Vasculogenic ED symptoms
Following are some noticeable symptoms of Vasculogenic ED that may vary among individuals:
- Difficulty achieving an erection
- Weak erections
- Reduced erectile quality
- Reduced sexual desire
- Inconsistent erectile function
Having difficulty obtaining or sustaining an erection occasionally is common and does not always mean Vasculogenic ED.
However, suppose these Erectile Dysfunction symptoms persist or become a common issue affecting sexual satisfaction and closeness.
In that case, it is best to seek the advice of a healthcare expert for a thorough diagnosis and treatment alternatives.
Vasculogenic ED treatment
The treatment of Vasculogenic Erectile Dysfunction attempts to address the underlying causes of ED, enhance blood flow, and boost erectile function.
Vasculogenic ED can be treated with non-invasive and invasive approaches.
These include oral medicines, penile injections or intraurethral suppositories, lifestyle changes, penile implants, and Angioplasty.
Oral medicines
Many oral medicines called Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors are routinely recommended for Vasculogenic ED.
These medications, which include Sildenafil, Tadalafil, and Vardenafil, enhance the blood supply to the penis, thereby causing an erection.
Lifestyle changes
Adopting a healthy lifestyle can help prevent Vasculogenic ED.
This involves frequent exercise, keeping a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, and not smoking or drinking excessively.
These lifestyle modifications can help improve overall cardiovascular health and blood flow.
Penile injections or intraurethral suppositories
To encourage an erection, medications can be injected directly into the base of the penis or put into the urethra.
Medicines, such as Alprostadil, dilate the blood arteries and increase blood flow to the penis.
This strategy is often efficient but needs good training and management skills.
Angioplasty
A vascular specialist could advise a minimally invasive endovascular operation if preliminary testing reveals blocked arteries that provide blood to the penis.
An endovascular expert performs Angioplasty to remove blockages blocking the adequate blood supply to the penis.
In a report published by NIH, it is mentioned that in 60% of Erectile Dysfunction patients, penile artery angioplasty is safe.
It can enhance erectile function significantly.
Penile implant
Surgery to insert a penile implant may be considered in more severe cases of Vasculogenic ED that have not responded to previous treatment options.
Implants of various kinds, including inflatable devices and semi-rigid rods, can be surgically placed into the penis to promote an erection when needed.
Conclusion
Vasculogenic Erectile Dysfunction is a kind of ED caused by issues with the blood arteries that supply blood to the penis.
Conditions such as Atherosclerosis, Peripheral vascular disease, Hypertension, Diabetes, smoking, obesity, and aging can all contribute to it.
Fortunately, there are several therapy options for Vasculogenic ED, such as oral medications, penile implants, angioplasty, testosterone pills, and surgery.
However, speaking with a healthcare expert is best before pursuing any treatment option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can vascular Erectile Dysfunction be cured?
Yes. Medications and surgery are frequently used to treat vasculogenic ED.
However, before pursuing any treatment options, it is best to speak with a doctor.
He will advise you on the best treatment method based on the underlying cause and your health condition.
How do you treat vascular Erectile Dysfunction?
Following are some effective treatment options for Vasculogenic ED:
PDE5 inhibitors such as Sildenafil and Tadalafil
Lifestyle changes
Penile injections and suppositories
Testosterone therapy
Angioplasty
Surgery
How do you know if you have vascular ED?
Difficulty getting an erection, trouble sustaining an erection during sexual intercourse, and reduced sexual drive are some noticeable symptoms of Vasculogenic ED.
How can I heal my vascular system naturally?
You can improve your vascular system naturally by quitting smoking, practicing ED exercise, maintaining healthy body weight, and having a healthy and balanced diet.
What causes Vasculogenic ED?
Several factors, such as Atherosclerosis, Diabetes, smoking, Hypertension, obesity, and aging, can all contribute to the development of Vasculogenic ED.
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