Treatment Options For Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile Dysfunction, often referred to simply as ED, is a sexual disorder that affects a significant percentage of men worldwide. It occurs when an adult male is unable to achieve and sustain an erection long enough for sexual intercourse. ED is not considered normal at any age, although older men could be more prone to ED, and is most likely due to other underlying problems.
ED can be caused by a wide range of factors that include vascular diseases which inhibit blood supply to the penis, neurological disorders, trauma, or psychological issues. There are a number of different erectile dysfunction treatments in Singapore which have various mechanisms to manage the condition. Here we explore 3 treatment options for patients with ED.
1) Oral Medication
Oral medications are the most commonly prescribed treatment for erectile dysfunction. Some of the more popular ones include sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), and vardenafil (Levitra). These drugs work by increasing blood flow, which helps to relax the muscles in the penis and improve the quality of the erection. They are typically taken 30 minutes to an hour before sexual activity and can last for up to four hours.
While oral medications may be effective, Patients who take nitrates for heart disease or alpha-blockers for prostate problems should not be prescribed these drugs as they can adversely affect their health. Patients with severe liver or kidney disease should also not be given oral medication for their ED.
2) Penile Injection Treatment
Injections of a medication known as Alprostadil is another erectile dysfunction treatment that can be used for patients with ED. The medication is injected directly into the penis to improve blood flow and help achieve an erection.
Ideally, the first injection should be given in a doctor’s office by a medical professional and self-injection lessons should be taken very seriously. The success rate for this treatment can be as high as 85% and patients who do not respond to oral medication can try penile injections.
The most common side effect of penile injections are prolonged erections that last even after climax. This is known as priapism and should be discussed with a doctor before you begin this particular treatment for ED.
3) Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy is a novel approach to ED that has recently gotten a lot of attention. It involves the application of low-intensity shockwaves to stimulate blood flow and promote the growth of new blood vessels in the penis.
During a shockwave therapy session, a doctor will apply a special device to the penis that emits low-intensity shockwaves. The shockwaves help to break up plaque in the blood vessels, improve blood flow, and induce and release growth factors, which can all help sustain an erection.
Our aesthetic clinic in Singapore offers shockwave therapy under our Valor Plus penile rejuvenation program. The recommended treatment period is 6-12 sessions over 6 weeks and is suitable for men with and without ED issues. For men without ED issues, the primary benefit is harder and more spontaneous erections.
Erectile Dysfunction can be a difficult subject for many men to broach, and seek treatment for. However it is a very manageable condition and there are a number of options which can be effective. It is important to talk to a doctor to determine the most suitable treatment option based on individual needs and medical history. With the right treatment, men with ED can regain their sexual function and improve their quality of life.
As a medical aesthetic doctor, Dr Kenneth Lee has extensive training in general medicine, general surgery, paediatrics, emergency medicine and community medicine. Contact us today to learn more about our services and drop us a line with any questions you may have.