What is erectile dysfunction?


Erectile dysfunction is when a man finds it hard to get or keep an erection during arousal, making sex difficult or unsatisfying. It usually happens because not enough blood flows into the penis. ED can affect your confidence, relationships and quality of life.

What causes erectile dysfunction?


ED can be caused by both physical and emotional factors, or a mix of the two.

1. Physical causes include health problems such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, or side effects of some medicines.
2. Emotional causes include stress, anxiety, depression or relationship issues.

A simple way to check the cause is to notice whether you still get morning erections. If you do, but struggle when aroused, stress or anxiety may be playing a part. If not, a physical health issue may be more likely.ED is more common as men get older, but it isn’t just part of ageing. It’s often linked to an underlying health condition.

How does an erection work?

When you’re aroused, signals from your brain tell the blood vessels in the penis to relax and open up. This allows more blood to flow in, filling two soft areas called the corpora cavernosa. As they fill with blood, the penis becomes firm and hard. At the same time, the veins that normally let blood flow out are blocked, keeping the erection firm until arousal ends. When arousal stops, blood flows back out and the penis becomes soft again.

How is erectile dysfunction diagnosed?


ED is usually straightforward to diagnose. Your doctor will ask you some questions and may examine you. If you have other health problems, such as diabetes, your doctor may run tests to make sure these are managed properly, since they can be linked to ED.

Is ED the same as premature ejaculation?


No. ED means you can’t achieve or keep an erection. Premature ejaculation means you can get an erection, but orgasm happens too quickly. They are different conditions.

What treatments are available?


For some men, lifestyle changes or therapy can improve ED. However, the most effective treatment for many men is prescription medicine.

• The main ED medicines are called PDE5 inhibitors. These include:
• Sildenafil (Viagra, Viagra Connect)
• Tadalafil (Cialis)
• Vardenafil (Levitra)
• These tablets are taken before sex to improve erections.

Lifestyle changes such as healthy eating, exercising, quitting smoking, drinking less alcohol and reducing stress can also make a big difference.

ED medicines may cause mild side effects such as headaches and dizziness. If one medicine doesn’t suit you, there are other options.

Why treat ED?


Treating ED can do more than improve your sex life. It can boost your confidence, improve relationships and even help your overall health by encouraging positive lifestyle changes.

At SW PHARMA, we offer safe, discreet and trusted treatments for ED. You can start today by filling out a quick online form. If suitable, your medicine will be delivered quickly and confidentially to your door.