Erectile Dysfunction: What You Need to Know
Erectile dysfunction, or ED, is the inability to get or keep an erection firm enough to have sexual intercourse. And while the stigma associated with ED sometimes prevents men from seeking help, the condition is quite common, affecting as many as 30 million men each year.
What Causes Erectile Dysfunction?
Though age is considered the biggest culprit of ED, there are several other triggers, both emotional and physical. It’s not unheard of for many men to experience it during times of severe stress. Erectile dysfunction can also manifest itself during a time of relationship difficulties. Under these “cause and effect” circumstances, the effect will usually resolve itself once you deal with the cause; however, frequent ED can be a sign of health problems, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, hardening of the arteries, or neurological disorders. Talk to your doctor about better managing these health conditions.
How Do I Treat Erectile Dysfunction?
From vacuum pumps and surgery to therapy and medication, there are plenty of treatment options available for patients dealing with erectile dysfunction. But as with any other medical condition, treatment depends on the cause.
In some cases, ED is a manifestation of lifestyle choices. Making subtle changes, such as losing weight, exercising more, drinking less alcohol or quitting smoking, will oftentimes improve the situation. In cases where the dysfunction is the result of stress, anxiety or relationship matters, therapy can be very helpful.
Medication, in the form of phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors, or PDE-5, is one of the most common ways to treat erectile dysfunction. PDE-5 inhibitors work by relaxing the muscles in the penis, which increases blood flow to the area.
In the U.S. there are three commonly known brand name prescription drugs – Viagra®, Cialis®, Levitra®. But like many brand name drugs, the cost can be a hindrance. And that’s especially the case with erectile dysfunction. That’s because one little blue pill costs $25! As with everything else, advances are being made everyday, providing options and solutions for men dealing with ED. For example, sildenafil, the active ingredient in Viagra®, is now available in the generic form at a lower cost.
For many men and couples, erectile dysfunction can be embarrassing to discuss, but arming yourself with knowledge is the only way of dealing with it. Our pharmacists can help you find a solution if your sexual activity is limited by ED. Talk to us about the treatment options available to you, such as our extended supply discount generic program, which includes sildenafil.
ABOUT VH PHARMACY: VH Pharmacy is a family-owned and operated neighborhood pharmacy. In business for more than 40 years, VH Pharmacy has been under the leadership of Pharmacist Eddy Blanco for the past 11 years. With his extensive knowledge of pharmaceutical compounding, Eddy Blanco has transformed VH Pharmacy into a technologically cutting-edge facility. To learn more about our services, please visit our website at www.vhpharmacyrx.com or call us today at 305.324.8777.
