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Causes
Once thought to be a psychological condition, most cases of erectile dysfunction (ED) or male impotence are now known to have a physical cause, such as a disease, an injury or a side effect from a drug. Certain medications can interfere with the nerve signals that cause an erection. Hardening of the arteries and high blood pressure can damage blood vessels and interfere with blood flow to the penis. Smoking can cause the conditions that cause ED. Diabetes can damage nerves and interfere with erection. Surgery for prostate cancer may cause ED. Other possible causes include alcoholism, liver failure, hormonal abnormalities (such as low testosterone) and nerve disorders. In most cases of ED, men feel anxious, guilty or depressed. That makes the problem worse.
Treatments
The AMA estimates 95 percent of ED cases are treatable with:
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Medication
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Psychological counseling
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Vacuum constriction device
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Penile injections
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Intraurethral therapy
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Surgery
All these treatments have different complications and side effects. So men should work with their doctors to determine what's right for them.
Herbal Remedies
Be aware that herbs and supplements are not strictly regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. Do not assume if a product is considered "natural" that it is harmless. Many substances do not have sound science behind them to prove their safety or how well they work. Manufacturers may not be giving you what you think you are getting, or the way the substance is processed may be unhealthy or unsafe.
With many of these products, doctors do not know enough about them. Herbs and supplements may interact with prescription and over-the-counter medications or can worsen your health conditions. Consider that some supplements, such as vitamin A, may be unsafe when taken in mega doses.
It is strongly advised that you talk to your doctor before taking any supplement or herb. If you are taking an herb or supplement and notice any unusual symptoms, stop taking the substance immediately and talk to your doctor.
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Herb
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Claims
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Possible interactions and dangers
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Possible side effects
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What the experts say
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| Yohimbe |
Treats impotence. |
People with asthma, Alzheimer's disease, heart disease, high blood pressure or heart conditions should not take this. |
Skin flushing, rash, cough, runny nose, irregular heart rhythm, dizziness, insomnia, anxiety and vomiting. |
Don't take it. It is considered unsafe and ineffective in humans, according to the Food and Drug Administration. |
| Ginkgo |
Treats impotence. |
People with allergies to the Ginkoaceae family or allergies to sumac, poison ivy or poison oak may have allergic reactions. There is an increased risk of bleeding, and this may be more likely if you are on aspirin therapy or taking warfarin or similar drugs. Ginkgo may also affect fertility. |
Few side effects at recommended doses. Most common complaints include stomach discomfort, restlessness, headaches and nausea. |
Ginkgo has been studied in humans, but so far there is no evidence that says the herb can help with impotence. Don't take it. |
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