Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a condition in which men cannot produce or maintain an erection. These sexual performance issues can create a great source of frustration for any man and his sexual partner who experience it.
ED can have both physical and psychological causes and becomes increasingly common as men age. While the two forms of ED may seem similar, there are distinct differences between them that should be taken into consideration when seeking treatment.
What is Physical ED, and How is it Caused?
Physical erectile dysfunction occurs due to medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, or hormonal imbalances caused by low testosterone levels.
In some cases, lifestyle choices contribute to physical ED. Overindulgence in smoking cigarettes and excessive alcohol consumption are some of the leading lifestyle choices that lead to ED.
These conditions interfere with the body’s ability to produce enough nitric oxide, a chemical necessary for achieving an erection.
Medical conditions can also damage the nerves responsible for transmitting signals from the brain to the penis. This results in little to no sexual performance in the bedroom.
When is Erectile Dysfunction a Psychological Problem?
Psychological erectile dysfunction is caused by stress-related issues such as anxiety or depression that prevent a man from becoming aroused mentally or physically while engaging in sexual activity.
Performance anxiety can also cause psychological ED if a man worries too much about his ability to perform sexually, allowing this fear to take over his thoughts during intimate moments with his partner.
Unlike physical ED, psychological ED is more of a temporary effect that stems from how a person feels about sexual intimacy at a specific moment.
Is Your Erectile Dysfunction Physical or Psychological?
Erectile dysfunction can have physical or psychological causes, and it is important to understand which type you are dealing with to seek the most effective treatment.
The best way to determine if your erectile dysfunction is physical or psychological in nature is by visiting a medical professional who can evaluate your condition and provide an accurate diagnosis.
Your doctor will likely review your medical history, ask questions about lifestyle factors contributing to the issue, perform a physical examination, and even recommend laboratory tests such as blood work.
With this information, they can distinguish between physical and psychological causes of ED and suggest appropriate treatments for each.
How to Treat Psychological ED
Treating psychological ED can be difficult, but it is possible. While physical ED has a clear biological cause and can often be treated with medication, psychological ED is caused by stress-related issues such as anxiety or depression that prevent a man from becoming aroused mentally or physically while engaging in sexual activity.
The most common approach when treating psychological ED is cognitive-behavioral theory. This approach lets patients explore the roots of their stress, depression, and anxiety. Once the issue is discovered, a psychologist can perform various therapies that help patients come to a mental resolution to their issues.
DFW ED Offers the Most Effective Treatments for Erectile Dysfunction
Intracavernous pharmacotherapy (ICP) injections and shockwave therapy may be the answer for those looking to resolve physical ED problems without surgery.
These treatments are both non-invasive, safe options for men who don’t want to undergo more invasive procedures such as surgery or other treatments that can have potential side effects.
ICP injections involve injecting a medication directly into the penis which helps increase blood flow and improve erections.
Shockwave therapy is also an effective treatment option, using low intensity sound waves to stimulate blood vessels in the penis and help restore normal functioning of the organ.
Both of these treatments from DFW ED can provide long-term relief from ED symptoms with minimal risk of complication or side effects.
Experience Natural Treatment For Erectile Dysfunction With DFW ED
If you’re ready to take the next step away from the physical and psychological frustration of erectile dysfunction, DFW ED is here to help. Our non-invasive procedures require no surgeries or long-term medications.
Schedule your consultation today to learn more about our approach to resolving your ED problems.