 |
 |
|
|
|
|
DESCRIPTION
Impotence, also known as erectile dysfunction (ED) is the consistent inability to achieve or maintain an erection of the penis necessary to have sexual intercourse. (The occasional periods of impotence that occur in just about all adult males are not considered dysfunctional.)
Impotence is not inevitable with aging. The capacity for erection is retained, though a man may need more stimulation to achieve erection and more time between erections than in the past. An estimated 30 million American men suffer from ED, including about half of all men aged 40 to 70 years, but the problem can be overcome in the majority of these cases.
Erections occur from a combination of brain stimuli, blood vessel and nerve function, and hormonal action. Impotence also covers other problems associated with sexual activity, including the inability of sperm to join with the female ovum, premature ejaculation and the inability to ejaculate the sperm.
When a man is sexually excited, the arteries in the penis relax and widen. This allows more blood to flow into the penis. The increased blood flow causes the penis to become hard and erect. The veins that normally carry blood away from the penis then become compressed. This restricts the blood flow out of the penis. With more blood flowing in and less flowing out, the penis enlarges, resulting in an erection. Sometimes the nerves or blood vessels that are part of this process don't work properly. If this happens, a man may not be able to achieve erection, resulting in ED. ED may occur regularly or only once in a while. Most men with ED have it just some of the time.
FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
Inability to achieve an erection adequate enough to perform sexual intercourse.
Inability to maintain an erection for the normal duration of intercourse (erection may be too weak, too brief, or too painful).
ED can be chronic or recurring, or it may occur as a single, isolated incident. Most men affected by impotence are 40 years of age or older, but some men younger than 40 have experienced problems, as well.
CAUSES
Psychological causes include:
- Guilt feelings. Depression.
- A poor relationship with the sexual partner. Lack of desire for one's partner.
- Psychological disorders, including depression, anxiety, stress, and psychosis.
- Lack of sexual information, including an understanding of the emotional aspects of sexuality and information about female anatomy and physiology.
There are many factors that can cause impotence. Certain medications and drugs, such as alcohol, cigarettes, antidepressants, antihistamines, antihypertensives, blood pressure medication, chemotherapy, diuretics, narcotics, nicotine, sedatives, steroids (if abused), stomach acid inhibitors and ulcer medications, can all interfere with normal erectile function.
Physical causes include:
- Diabetes mellitus. An estimated 50 percent of all males with diabetes suffer from impotence, and the other 50 percent will most likely become impotent over time.
- Atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), clogged arteries, peripheral vascular disease.
- Use of some anti-hypertensive medications. See Hypertension (high blood pressure) for more information.
- High cholesterol.
- Disorders of the central nervous system, such as spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, stoke or syphilis.
- Endocrine disorders (hormonal imbalance) that involve the pituitary, thyroid, adrenal or sexual glands.
- Alcoholism.
- Drug Abuse, especially of marijuana, cocaine, narcotics, tranquilizers, sedatives, hypnotics and hallucinogens.
- Decreased circulation to the penis from any cause.
- Low sperm count many contribute to ED.
Situational causes:
- Presence of other people in the home (such as a mother-in-law).
RISK INCREASES WITH
Problems listed in causes.
Recent illness that has lowered strength.
Recent surgery (e.g., cardiovascular or prostate surgery).
PREVENTIVE MEASURES
Explore whether ED may be related to psychological factors, such as the fear of intimacy or repressed anger.
Maintain good communications with your partner. Don't be hesitant about discussing the problem, exploring your needs and asking for help. Your partner's understanding is critical to solving the problem.
Don't drink more than 1 or 2 alcoholic drinks, if any, a day. Don't use alcohol before sexual activity. Don't use other drugs that can be abused.
If you have diabetes, adhere closely to your treatment program.
Maintain overall good health. Eat a healthy diet avoiding sugar, fried foods, junk foods, or animal fats. Do not smoke and avoid stress. Remember tat sexual function changes as one ages, so allow more time for stimulation in order to achieve and erection.
If any new medication you take changes your sexual function, talk to your health care provider.
EXPECTED OUTCOME
Spontaneous recovery sometimes occurs. In cases with psychological origins, recovery frequently occurs after counseling (psychotherapy).
For cases with physical origins, treatment of the underlying disorder for changes in a medication therapy may improve sexual performance.
Other medical methods to improve erectile function have greatly improved the outlook.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
Depression and loss of self-esteem.
Marital problems or breakdown of close personal relationships.
TREATMENT
GENERAL MEASURES
Medical tests as needed for diagnosis of any underlying disorder.
For some men, studies are done at a special diagnostic facility to measure nocturnal erections.
Psychotherapy or counseling (alone or with your partner) from a qualified professional sex therapist.
If medications is the cause, a change in medication or changes in dosage may be helpful.
Self-administered penile injection therapy may be prescribed.
Use of vacuum erectile device may be recommended for some men.
Surgery to implant an inflatable or non-inflatable penile prosthesis will help in some cases.
Additional information available from: Recovery of Male Potency
(800) 835-7667
MEDICATION
Medication is not helpful for impotence cause by psychological factors.
Medication may be needed, to treat the underlying medical condition.
Medication for self-administered penile injections may be prescribed.
ACTIVITY
No restrictions. Sexual relations can be resumed when potency returns or any surgery performed heals.
DIET
Eat a well balanced diet and take vitamin and mineral supplements, if needed.
Helpful supplements may include:
- Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids and Zinc helps boost testosterone levels.
- Vitamin E increases blood circulation.
- Essential Fatty Acid Complex aids in sperm formation.
- Selenium is found in high concentration in the testicles.
- DMG increases oxygen supply in the blood to all tissues.
- Yohimbe Bark expands the blood vessels in the penis and increases blood flow. People with high blood pressure should not use yohimbe bark.
- Horny Goat Weed and Maca increase sexual desire and sexual stamina.
- Saw Palmetto benefits prostate health and normal prostate function.
- Man Bao is a Chinese formula that has been used for sexual stamina.
NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS
NUTRIENTS Supplement Suggested Dosage Comments Essential Prostata from Gero Vita As directed on label. Enhances libido and erectile function. Vitamin E Start with 200 IU and up daily and slowly increase to 400-1,000 IU daily. Increases circulation. Vitamin E d-alpha tocopherol, Nature's Way, 400 IU, 100 Softgels, Vitamin E 400, Nature's Way, 400 IU, 100 Liquid VCaps, Advanced Gamma E Complex W/ Mixed Tocopherol & Tocotrienols, 120 Softgels, Vitamin E (Hypoallergenic), Allergy Research Group / Nutricology, 400 IU, 120 Softgels Zinc 80 mg daily. Do not exceed this amount. Important in prostate gland function and reproductive organ growth. Use zinc gluconate lozenges or OptiZinc for best absorption. Zinc (Chelated), 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 30 mg, 100 Caps, Zinc Lozenges W/ Echinacea & Vitamin C, Nature's Way, 23 mg, 60 Lozenges, Zinc Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 100 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz. Important Dimethylglycine (DMG) ( Aangamik DMG from Food Science Labs) As directed on label. Increases oxygen supply in the blood to all tissues. Blood vessels must be dilated for an erection to occur. Use a sublingual form. GH3 from Gero Vita As directed on label. Stimulates the activity of sex hormones. Caution: Do not use GH3 if you are allergic to sulfites. Octacosanol 1,000-2,000 mcg 3 times weekly. Natural source of vitamin E. Good for hormone production. Helpful L-Tyrosine 500 mg each daily, on an empty stomach. Take with water or juice. Do not take with milk. Take with 50 mg vitamin B6 and 100 mg vitamin C for better absorption. Helps stabilize moods and alleviate stress. See Amino Acids for more information. Caution: Do not take tyrosine if you are taking an MAO inhibitor drug. Raw orchic glandular As directed on label. Glandular extracts from the male reproductive organs that promote their function. See Glandular Therapy for more information. Vitamin A
Plus
Natural beta-carotene
Or
Carotenoid complex (Betatene)15,000 IU daily.
15,000 IU daily.
As directed on label.Antioxidants that enhance immunity. Vitamin A, 10,000 IU, 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 100 Softgels, Beta Carotene (Natural Dunaliella salina), Nature's Way, 100% Nature, 25,000 IU, 100 Softgels, Multi-Carotene Antioxidant Complex, Nature's Way, 60 Softgels Vitamin B complex 50 mg 3 times daily. Needed for a healthy nervous system, and are important in all cell activity. Vitamin B 100 Complex W/ Coenzyme B-2, Nature's Way, 631 mg, 100 Caps, Ultimate B (Vitamin B Complex Formula), Nature's Secret, 60 Tabs Plus extra
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine)50 mg 3 times daily. Required for the synthesis of RNA and DNA, which govern cellular reproduction. Vitamin B-6 (Pyridoxine), Nature's Way, 100 mg, 100 Caps
IMPOTENCE/ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION (ED) SUPPLEMENTAL PRODUCTS
Information, supplements and products for impotence, also known as erectile dysfunction (ED).
Longings For Men - 60 Caps, Natural Penis Supplement Max Strength, (The Real Thing for Men, Not an Imitation)
Increase YOUR penis length and width - Soft & Erect! Improve YOUR ability in bed & satisfy both of you. Increase YOUR sexual endurance and last longer. Develop the confidence that YOU should have.Ascend For Men, Natural Penis Enhancement - 60 Caps
Ascend is an all natural herbal solution for erectile dysfunction, impotence and other male sexual disorders. It contain no drugs, no stimulants and has no side effects. It is safe and effective for men of all ages.Horny Goat Weed w/ Maca, 808mg - 60 Caps Standardized Formula for Men & Women
Horny Goat Weed provides a serious boost to men or women who need it. Based on the latest scientific research into performance and well-being. Each safe, highly potent capsule contains a unique and powerful complex of herbs formulated to support libido and sexual activity. Horny Goat Weed is an all-natural phyto-aphrodisiac.Yohimbe Express Liquid Extract - 2 fl. oz.
In the medical profession, some practitioners use the whole crude herb, some use only a tincture or extract of the herb, and some prefer to use only the mineral components of the substance.Maca (Lepidum meyenii) Tincture, 100% Organic - 2 fl. oz.
Today Maca is used to increase energy and support the immune system. Maca can help a number of conditions from fatigue to frigidity.Kombucha Miracle Fungus - Kombucha Tea Benefit 's - By Harald Tietze - Paperback
One time best seller, Kombucha Miracle Fungus is all about synergy and Kombucha Tea Benefit's it is an easy read for those interested in the synergy Kombucha offers or Kombucha benefit's.Advanced Yohimbe Plus, Sexual Enhancer - 120 Gelcaps
Yohimbe is the only plant-derived sexual stimulant that has been adopted by mainstream medicine. Advanced Yohimbe-Plus is formulated with seven other performance-enhancing herbs that demonstrate an extraordinary effect when used together.Irwin Naturals Advanced Ginza Plus, Multi Adaptogen, - 75 Gelcaps
Irwin Naturals Advanced Ginza-Plus is a balanced formula combining five powerful adaptogens, including one of the highest potency ginseng extracts on the market.Irwin Naturals Steel Libido for Men, Sexual Enhancer, - 75 Gelcaps
The clinically supported ingredients in Irwin Naturals Steel Libido create a powerful one-two punch to your sexual performance and enjoyment.Pleasure Pill, Male and Female Sexual Enhancement - 30 Gelcaps
Pleasure Pill ™ was created for Male and Female Sexual Enhancement.Eros Rx Ultra Sex Drive Enhancer - 60 Tabs
Formulated to enhance nutritional support for the male and female sex drive. Eros Rx is the most complete sex drive formula on the market.Procaine Ultra GH9 (Ultimate 9), 100mg - 60 Caps
Procaine Ultra GH9 is the MOST TRUSTED Anti-Aging THERAPY - of choice of the RICH & FAMOUS in over 70 countries.Horny Goat Weed Express Liquid Extract - 2 fl. oz.
Horny Goat Weed was first described in ancient classical Chinese medicinal texts an aphrodisiac which was used to increase libido in men and women, and improve erectile function in men.Super Manhood, Male Libido Enhancement, TCM Formula, Wenyang yishen - 100% Natural, 500mg - 60 Caps
This time-honored Male Libido Enhancement formula is made of extracts from prepared rehmannia root, fried common yam, wolfberry fruit, prepared Chinese dodder seed, eucommia bark in giner, freid antler glue, Asiatic cornus fruit, Chinese angelica root, cinnamon bark, prepared aconite, lindera root, alpinia fruit, mantis egg case and Chinese leek seed.Perfect Female Rx - 60 Caps
Increase female sex drive with Perfect Female Rx, the doctor recommended female herbal supplement. Not only does it increase the female sex drive and libido, it also supports normal hormonal balance and sexual health.Yohimbe (Corynanthe yohimbe) Powder - 4 oz. Bulk
Orally, yohimbe is used as an aphrodisiac, for impotence, exhaustion and even angina. Yohimbe is also used for general sexual dysfunction in men and women.Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma Longifolia Jack) / Pasak Bumi, Liquid Extract - 2 fl. oz.
Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longifolia) has an ancient reputation as an aphrodisiac in Malaysia and Indonesia, where its known as Pasak Bumi. Its name means "Ali's staff or walking stick" in reference to its effects on male sexuality.Tongkat Ali ( Eurycoma Longifolia Jack ) / Pasak Bumi Powder - 4 oz. Bulk
Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longifolia) has an ancient reputation as an aphrodisiac in Malaysia and Indonesia, where its known as Pasak Bumi. Its name means "Ali's staff or walking stick" in reference to its effects on male sexuality.Maca (Lepidum meyenii) Powder - 4 oz. Bulk
Today Maca root is used to increase energy and support the immune system. Alternative Health & Herbs Remedies Maca Powder can help a number of conditions from fatigue to frigidity.Egyptian Blue Lotus Tincture Herbal Aphrodisiac, 100% Organic - 2 fl. oz.
Egyptian Blue Lotus is an herbal aphrodisiac for a woman or man. It may also act as an a sedative and antispasmodic.Eros Rx Ultra Sex Drive Enhancer - 60 Tabs
Formulated to enhance nutritional support for the male and female sex drive. Eros Rx is the most complete sex drive formula on the market.Sex Stimulant Formula Tincture, 100% Organic - 2 fl. oz.
Use the Sex Stimulant Formula for impotence and as an all natural stimulant for sexual activity.Damiana Tincture, 100% Organic - 2 fl. oz.
Damiana is used to treat asthma and other respiratory diseases, depression, digestive problems, menstrual disorders, and various forms of sexual dysfunction such as impotence in men, and inability to achieve orgasm in women.Spermarize Male Fertility Supplement Formula - 90 Tabs
Spermarize Male Fertility Supplement has been developed and used in China to increase male sperm count and the mobility of human sperm.Male Energy Tea with Black Cumin Seed - 20 Tea Bags
This tea is for the guys! Made with Ginseng, Ginkgo, Yohimbe, Saw Palmetto, Black Cumin Seed and other herbs — this energizing tea will get their motor running.Manhood Herbal Tea - 20 Tea Bags
In Chinese Medicine these Herbs enhance energy, support the immune system, and are considered an elixir for sexual functions.Tribulus Terrestris Organic Standardized Extract, 1000mg - 30 Tabs
Tribulus is Nature's master hormone regulator for men and women and has been used for centuries to treat a wide variety of health problems including loss of libido (sex drive), impotence, infertility, edema, liver, kidney and heart problems, PMS, menopause, and more. Tribulus is a safe, non-hormonal food supplement prepared from the herb, Tribulus terrestris.Yohimbe Express, 1000mg - 60 Caps
Yohimbe has gained a reputation for its staying power. Yohimbe is designed to provide you and your mate with a memorable night of romance.Yohimbe Tincture, 100% Organic - 2 fl. oz.
Yohimbe is often used for impotence and sexual dysfunction.Male Hormone Tincture (sex drive), 100% Organic - 2 fl. oz.
The Male Hormone Tincture bring balance to the male hormones for impotence and for prostate problems.Vitamin E, d-alpha tocopherol 400 IU - 100 Softgels
Vitamin E has potent antioxidant activity, supplies oxygen to the blood, aids in strengthening capillary walls, and plays a beneficial role in cancer and cardiovascular disease prevention, anti-aging benefits, circulation, wound-healing, immune function, nervous system function, PMS, hot flushes, diabetes, vascular disease, eye health, tissue repair, athletic performance, leg cramps, skin and hair health, and alleviating fatigue.Zinc Lozenges w/ Echinacea & Vitamin C, Nature's Way 23mg - 60 Lozenges
Nature's Way Zinc lozenge boosts cold season defense with zinc, widely recognized as an important nutritional support during the cold season, and echinacea pupurea, clinically shown to support the immune system, and Vitamin C, a vitally important vitamin for general health maintenance.Vitamin C 1000 with Bioflavonoids, Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 1000mg - 250 Vcaps
Nature's Way Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids provides antioxidant protection for many of the body's important enzyme systems.Prostate Formula Tincture, 100% Organic - 2 fl. oz.
For prostate problems and to balance male hormones. Helps alleviate swelling and inflammation of the prostate.Men's Health & Stamina
Men! Discover Virility, Stamina, Potency, and Strength. maintain a Healthy Heart, Prostate And More! Your Natural Health Solution Starts Here.
Mountain Rose Bulk Herbs
Mountain Rose Aromatherapy Oils
Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils A-B
Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils C-E
Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils F-L
Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils M-P
Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils Q-Z
Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils: Oil Blends & Resins
Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils: Diffusers, Nebulizers, & Burners
Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils: Oil Kits
Click Here To Visit Herbal Remedies Product Page
FOR MORE INDEPTH INFORMATION
MoonDragon's Health: Impotence, Erectile Dysfunction, Male Sexual Dysfunction
This page has more indepth information about medical approaches to treat impotence/erectile dysfunction (ED). Information includes various causes, including medications, as well as therapies, medications, and surgical procedures available for treatment of erectile dysfunction. Stress management techniques, lifestyle change recommendations, and holistic nutritional and herbal recommendations are also reviewed. Includes helpful links to other resources.
NOTIFY YOUR MIDWIFE OR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IF...
You or a family member has symptoms of impotency, especially if taking medications or has any of the disorders listed as causes. If your health care provider cannot treat the problems, they can often refer you to someone who does.
