Commonly known as impotence, “Erectile Dysfunction” is a condition in which a man can’t achieve or maintain an erection during sexual performance. This condition is said to affect as many as 30 million men in the United States. According to a report by the National Institutes of Health, almost half of men over age 75 experience ED. People have become aware of erectile dysfunction as a medical condition since the discovery pf the drug Viagra, which was originally a heart drug.

Men who have a problem with their sexual performance may be reluctant to talk to their doctor, seeing it as an embarrassing issue.

One needs to identify if they are suffering from ED. The problem may manifest itself in several ways. Erectile dysfunction symptoms might include persistent:

• Trouble getting an erection
• Trouble keeping an erection
• Reduced sexual desire

However, one needs not worry. You may be surprised at all the options for treating erectile dysfunction. Some of them are as follows:

1. Erectile Dysfunction Treatment

Erectile dysfunction can be treated at any age. Treatment depends on your overall health and the underlying cause of the problem.

2. Discussing Erectile Dysfunction With Your Doctor

Many men are some men are reluctant or embarrassed to discuss sexual matters with their doctor. As a result, they don’t get the help that could resolve their problem with ED. Remember, the doctor gets many cases during the day and you have nothing to be embarrassed about.

3. Penile Implants

Penile prostheses — penis implants — offer a permanent solution to erectile dysfunction. There are many more types as well.

4. Oral medications

Oral medications are a successful erectile dysfunction treatment for many men. They include Sildenafil (Viagra), Tadalafil (Cialis), Vardenafil (Levitra, Staxyn) and Avanafil (Stendra). All four medications enhance the effects of nitric oxide — a natural chemical your body produces that relaxes muscles in the penis. This increases blood flow and allows you to get an erection in response to sexual stimulation.

Rather than crawling inside your shell, discuss the issue with your partner. Communicate openly and honestly about your condition. Treatment is often more successful when a man involves his partner. Also, don’t assume you have a long-term problem as this can cause anxiety, which might make erectile dysfunction worse. Lastly, don’t ignore stress, anxiety or other mental health concerns. Talk to your doctor or consult a mental health provider to address these issues.