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What is Male Erectile Dysfunction?
Erectile Dysfunction denotes the inability
to obtain or maintain an erection for satisfactory sexual intercourse. It is a symptom of an underlying disease.
What are the risk factors that may lead to erectile dysfunction?
- Alcohol consumption
- Certain medications
- Diabetes
- Elevated cholesterol
- Endocrine
- Neurological problems
- Obesity
- Psychological problems
- Smoking
- Vascular Disease
How is Erectile Dysfunction Evaluated?
Evaluation of Erectile Dysfunction begins by obtaining a detailed sexual, medical, and surgical
history. It is also important to inquire about the patient's current medications and any history
of head, perineal, or pelvic trauma. Physical examination consists of review of systems. Following
a history and physical examination blood tests are performed to assess the hormones. Frequently the
physician may be able to establish the causes of erectile dysfunction and treat the problem with
oral medication. In rare cases performing a test called the Duplex Doppler checks the circulation
of the penis. Currently, many revolutionary oral medications like Viagra, marketed by the Pfizer
company, are available that may correct the problem. In patients in whom pharmacologic manipulation
fails, other options such as penile injections and penile prosthesis may be necessary.
What is Female Sexual Dysfunction?
Many females suffer from sexual dysfunction. As it is an embarrassing situation, they frequently
fail to consult their physician for help. Currently a significant amount of research is being
performed in this field.
What are the symptoms and causes of Female Sexual Dysfunction?
A common symptom of this condition is dyspareunia, or painful sexual intercourse. It is frequently
due to physiological decrease of secretions normally responsible for the lubrication of the vagina
during sexual intercourse and is a result of decline of female hormones. Other symptoms of female
sexual dysfunction include orgasmic difficulties and low sexual desire associated with depression
or dyspareunia. Pelvic surgery if the blood supply or nerve supply of the genitalia is affected or
disease of the female pelvic organs such as endometriosis may be responsible for the sexual
difficulties in females.
How is Female Sexual Dysfunction Evaluated?
A detailed history and physical examination will usually reveal the cause of the problem. In difficult
cases of female sexual dysfunction a pelvic or vaginal ultrasound may provide the answer to this
embarrassing problem. With current advances in revolutionary pharmacological agents, females with
sexual problems can consult a urologist for help.
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