Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition among men that affects their ability to get or maintain an erection. There are various causes of ED, and one of the less talked-about causes is neurogenic causes. Neurogenic causes refer to ED that is caused by nerve damage, injury or disease.
In this article, we will discuss neurogenic causes of ED and how medications can be used to manage the condition.
Understanding Neurogenic Causes of ED
Neurogenic causes of ED occur when there is damage to the nerves that control the blood flow to the penis, or when there is damage to the nerves that send signals to the brain to initiate an erection. This damage can be caused by various factors, including spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, and diabetes.
The nerve damage can lead to a decrease in blood flow to the penis, making it difficult to achieve or maintain an erection. In some cases, the nerve damage can also cause a decrease in sensitivity to sexual stimulation, making it difficult to achieve an erection even with sexual stimulation.
Treating Neurogenic Causes of ED with Medications
There are various medications that can be used to manage ED caused by neurogenic factors. These medications work by increasing blood flow to the penis or by helping the nerves in the penis to function properly.
Phosphodiesterase Type 5 (PDE5) Inhibitors
PDE5 inhibitors, such as sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), and vardenafil (Levitra), are commonly used to treat ED. These medications work by inhibiting the action of PDE5, an enzyme that breaks down the chemical that causes an erection. Check hjælp websted for further details on the listed medications.
PDE5 inhibitors help to relax the blood vessels in the penis, which increases blood flow to the area and helps to achieve and maintain an erection. These medications are generally safe and effective and can be used by men with neurogenic causes of ED.
Intracavernosal Injections
Intracavernosal injections involve injecting medication directly into the penis to achieve an erection. Alprostadil is the most commonly used medication for this purpose.
Alprostadil works by relaxing the blood vessels in the penis and increasing blood flow to the area. This medication can be effective in treating ED caused by neurogenic factors, and it is generally safe and well-tolerated.
Vacuum Erection Devices
Vacuum erection devices (VEDs) are non-invasive devices that can be used to achieve an erection. These devices work by creating a vacuum around the penis, which draws blood into the area and helps to achieve an erection.
VEDs can be effective in treating ED caused by neurogenic factors, and they are generally safe and well-tolerated. However, they may not be suitable for all men, and they can be cumbersome to use.
Testosterone Therapy
Testosterone therapy involves the use of testosterone replacement therapy to increase levels of the hormone in the body. This therapy may be helpful for men with neurogenic causes of ED who have low testosterone levels.
Testosterone therapy can help to improve sexual function and libido in men with low testosterone levels, and it may be effective in treating ED caused by neurogenic factors. However, it is important to note that testosterone therapy is not suitable for all men, and it can have side effects.
Conclusion
ED can be a challenging condition to manage, but there are various medications that can be used to treat the condition, particularly in cases of neurogenic causes. PDE5 inhibitors, intracavernosal injections, vacuum erection devices, and testosterone therapy are all effective treatments that can help men with neurogenic causes of ED to achieve and maintain an erection.