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ED Definition

July 23rd, 2012 No comments

An important factor that can influence ED study outcomes is the seemingly innocuous definition selected for erectile function. Two identical studies, one with EF defined as the ability to achieve and maintain penile erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance, the other as partial erections occasionally sufficient for penetrative intercourse could yield very different results. A cohort study of 260 men revealed 5% reported erections firm enough for intercourse, but 61% reported sexual function as good or very good.

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Differences could be further exacerbated if the use of erectile aides such as PDE5I is allowed and documented in one study but not in the other. The National Institute of Health (NIH) identified the definition of erectile dysfunction as the “inability to attain and/or maintain a penile erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance” and this definition was subsequently accepted by the World Health Organization and the International Consultation on Urologic Disease. The NIH definition provides an excellent overall definition for researchers and clinicians to utilize as a starting point in explicating a precise operational definition of erectile dysfunction according to the particulars of the situation being explored. Many studies in the literature do not explicate a specific definition of erectile dysfunction and those that did vary greatly in the literature. Examples of imprecision in terminology in the ED literature include terms like “sexual concerns,” statements describing “tumescence,” “impotence,” “loss of potency,” “cannot get erections,” and “difficulty with erections.”

Defining erectile dysfunction in terms of the inability to penetrate and/or have intercourse with the erec- tion may better describe the level of functional rigidity for men who are engaged in a sexual relationship involving intercourse. Despite being more precise, definitions with strict functional rigidity criteria may not apply to sexual relationships in which penetrative intercourse is considered less important (such as some homosexual relationships). Today’s erectile function definitions must specify whether PDE5I or other erectile aides are allowed or excluded.

Control of Erection and Male

July 18th, 2012 No comments

Sexual Function It is necessary to establish a basic understanding of normal sexual function prior to the discussion of  potential mechanisms for drug-induced pathology.

Normal male sexual function requires

(1) an intact  libido,

(2) the ability to achieve and maintain  penile erection,

(3) ejaculation, and

(4) detumes- cence.

The major anatomic structures of the penis that are involved in erectile function include  the paired corpora cavernosa and the single corpus  spongiosum that encloses the urethra. The tunica  albuginea, a collagenous sheath, individually sur- rounds each corpus. The microarchitecture of the  corpora is composed of a mass of smooth muscle  which contains a network of endothelial-lined  lacunar spaces. Penile tumescence leading to erection depends on the increased flow of blood into  the lacunar network after complete relaxation of  the arteries and corporal smooth muscle. Subse­ quent compression of the trabecular smooth muscle against the fibroelastic tunica albuginea causes  a passive closure of the emissary veins and accu- mulation of blood in the corpora. In the presence  of a full erection and a competent valve mechanism, the corpora become noncompressible cylin- ders from which blood cannot escape. The central nervous system exerts an important influence by either stimulating or antagoniz- ing spinal pathways that mediate erectile function  and ejaculation. These interactions are mediated  by a combination of central and peripheral innervation. Canadian pharmacy viagra – cheap ed medications online.

Sensory nerves that originate from  receptors in the penile skin and glans converge to  form the dorsal nerve of the penis, which travels  to the S2­S4 dorsal root ganglia via the pudendal  nerve. Parasympathetic nerve fibers to the penis  arise from neurons in the intermediolateral columns of S2­S4 sacral spinal segments. Sympa­ thetic innervation originates from the T-11 to the  L-2 spinal segments and descends through the  hypogastric plexus. Neural input to smooth mus- cle tone is crucial to the initiation and maint nance of an erection. There is also an intricate interaction between the corporal smooth muscle  cell and its overlying endothelial cell lining. Nitric oxide, which induces vascular relax- ation, promotes erection and is opposed by  endothelin­1 (ET­1), which mediates vascular  contraction. Nitric oxide is synthesized from l­arginine by nitric oxide synthase (NOS),  and is released from the nonadrenergic, noncho- linergic (NANC) autonomic nerve supply to act  postjunctionally on smooth muscle cells. Nitric  oxide increases the production of cyclic  3¢,5¢­guanosine monophosphate (cyclic GMP),  which interacts with protein kinase G and  decreases intracellular calcium, causing relax- ation of the smooth muscle. Cyclic GMP is grad- ually broken down by phosphodiesterase type 5  (PDE­5). Inhibitors of PDE­5, such as the oral  medication sildenafil, maintain erections by  reducing the breakdown of cyclic GMP.

However,  if nitric oxide is not produced at a basal level, the  addition of PDE­5 inhibitor is not effective, as  the drug facilitates but does not initiate the initial  enzyme cascade. In addition to nitric oxide,  vasoactive prostaglandins (PGE1 , PGF2a) are  synthesized within the cavernosal tissue and  increase cyclic AMP levels, also leading to the  relaxation of cavernosal smooth muscle cells. Ejaculation is stimulated by the sympathetic  nervous system, which results in contraction of  the epididymis, vas deferens, seminal vesicles,  and prostate, causing seminal fluid to enter the  urethra. Seminal fluid emission is followed by  rhythmic contractions of the bulbocavernosus  and ischiocavernosus muscles, leading to ejacu- lation. Detumescence is mediated by norepinephrine released from the sympathetic nerves,  the release of ET­1 from the vascular surface,  and contraction of smooth muscle induced by  the activation of postsynaptic  a-adrenergic  receptors. These events increase venous out- flow and restore the flaccid state. Venous leak  can cause premature detumescence and is  thought to be caused by insufficient relaxation of  the corporal smooth muscle.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) may result from  three basic mechanisms:

(1) failure to initiate  (psychogenic, endocrinologic, or neurogenic);

(2) failure to fill (arteriogenic); or

(3) failure to  store (venoocclusive dysfunction) adequate  blood volume within the lacunar network.

The inability to initiate an erection may have psychogenic, vasculogenic, endocrinologic, or neuro- genic etiologies. These categories are not  mutually exclusive, and multiple factors contribute to ED in many patients. ED has also beencommonly associated with prescription and non- prescription medications. The remainder of this chapter focuses on the literature and the hypoth- esized mechanisms of dysfunction surrounding  this relatively common clinical entity is contributing to the sexual  addition, physicians should tion to the presence of othe (i.e., the patient’s psychosoc exist outside of the disease  drug in question. The final s addresses management strat ment of drug­induced ED.

The Development of ED Part 2

July 18th, 2012 No comments

Exacerbating factors are conditions that follow the onset of the ED and increase the likelihood that isolated occasions of erection difficulty generalize into a persistent period of ED. These are typically the individual’s and the partner’s response to the lack of an erection at times it is expected. Performance anxiety is the most common response on the part of the man that causes an exacerbation of normal fluctuations in erectile response. This is commonly seen in men who are predisposed to performance anxiety due to an underlying personality trait, unrealistic expectations of their own sexual response or feelings of sexual inadequacy. Even one occasion of less than optimal erectile response can quickly mushroom into persistent ED because performance anxiety then interferes in subsequent sexual situations.

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The partner’s response to the onset of an erection problem is also crucial. If the partner responds in a relaxed and supportive fashion, the man is less likely to develop performance anxiety. Occasional lapses in erections are overlooked and the couple is able to continue to enjoy the sexual relationship. However, if the partner reacts negatively to the onset of an erection problem, the man will be at greater risk of escalating frequency of ED. Most often the origin of the partner’s overreaction is her or his own fear of the meaning of the sexual problem. Most partners, at first, worry that the cause of the lapsed erection is the man’s lack of attraction or affection for them. If she or he is already feeling insecure about herself or himself or the relationship, this may manifest as anxiety and/or anger at the man, which may then exacerbate his anxiety and the ED.

The Development of ED Part 1

July 18th, 2012 No comments

A thorough understanding of a patient’s ED should involve a formulation of the development of the disorder.

It is helpful in this effort to identify the chronological ordering of:

(1) vulnerability factors,

(2) triggering factors,

(3) exacerbating factors, and

(4) maintaining factors.

Each of these categories may contain either physical or psychological factors, which includes both individual and interpersonal factors. Some of the factors noted above may fit into more than one of these categories. Further, it should be noted that these factors may be present in the partner of the man with ED as well. Vulnerability factors are those conditions that predate the onset of ED, but which are causally connected to it. The physical or medical factors that predispose a man to ED are well known (e.g., age, diabetes, or atherosclerosis). Less well-known, though no less important, are the psychological factors that lead to increased susceptibility to ED. These could be mental conditions of the patient, such as stress, an anxious personality style, or feelings of sexual inadequacy. They may also be conditions of the sexual relationship, primarily some form of relationship strain or dysfunction (e.g., conflict, lack of emotional intimacy, or mistrust). Triggering factors are those events that precipitate ED. Physical triggering events may be an illness, injury, or medication change. The most common psychological precipitant to erectile dysfunction is a single episode of erection difficulty. Whether this one event develops into a condition of ED depends on the presence of vulnerability or exacerbating factors. A change in the man’s mental or emotional state can trigger ED, such as changes in stress levels or the onset of a depressive episode. A common relationship event that may lead to the onset of ED is the start of a new relationship, which is often associated with increased anxiety and fears of rejection.

Ayurvedic Remedies For Arthritis

July 16th, 2012 No comments

HERBS USED IN THE TREATMENT OF ARTHRITIS

Herbs can be very effectively used in the treatment of arthritis.

Some of the most commonly used herbs in the treatment of arthritis are,
1. Cayenne pepper.
2. Licorice
3. Alfalfa
4. Ginger
5. Buchu
6. Chaparral.

ayurvedic remediesCayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper contains capsaicin, the active ingredient which helps to relieving pain by inhibiting the transmission of pain signals from nerves in the muscles and joints when applied to the skin. Topical application of cayenne pepper four times daily on the affected area can give effective result. Prepare the mixture of cayenne pepper by adding 1 oz of cayenne pepper to the 1 quart of rubbing alcohol. Allow the mixture to infuse for three weeks, agitating the bottle each day. Apply this infusion in to affected area for 10 to 20 minutes and wipe away after use.

Licorice: Licorice offers significant anti-inflammatory effect by blocking the inflammation receptors. It has been used effectively in the treatment of arthritis, allergies and other inflammatory disease that put excess stress on the adrenal gland. Long time use of licorice can cause hypertension in some people. Taking two capsules of licorice is recommended in the treatment of arthritis.

Alfalfa: This is a nutrient rich remedy useful in the treatment of arthritis symptoms, nourishes joints and alleviates the inflammation. It is better to use alfalfa tea rather than powder or capsules because it is the pure form and more easily assimilated to the body. Prepare the tea by placing 1oz of alfalfa in a pot and cover with 1 quart of water. Boil the decoction for 30 minutes. Strain and consume the decoction throughout the day. Use the remedy for approximately three weeks and suspend for one week and begin the regimen again as needed.

Ginger: Ginger is primarily known as culinary herb. It contains gingerol the active ingredient can relive the muscle and connective tissue inflammation associated with the arthritis. Sometimes ginger can cause heartburn.

Buchu: This is a herb native of south Africa, Africans are used the leaves of this herb for the treatment of water retention and in kidney problems. The oil contained in the buchu leaves can reduces the pain and inflammation of both rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. This herb may lower the potassium, a mineral that helps maintain muscles tone and strength.

Chaparral: This is also known as stink weeds. This herbs contain chemicals that offer anti-inflammatory benefits, reduces the pain and stiffness. However the scientific studies are only done in the animals so there is no evidence that chaparral helps relieve arthritis symptoms in human.

Comorbid Mental Health Problems in ED

July 16th, 2012 No comments

In addition to the psychological issues noted earlier, a thorough evaluation of ED should identify any underlying mental health problems. These mental health problems range from mild (e.g., temporary depression) to serious (chronic schizophrenia). Not only are mental disorders related to increased incidence of ED, but medications for mental conditions may also contribute to the development and/or maintenance of ED. Research on the comorbidity of sexual dysfunctions in men with a variety of mental health problems indicates that they are more likely to present with ED than men without such conditions. Anxiety has been associated with ED for many years, beginning with Masters and Johnson. As discussed earlier, anxiety during the sexual encounter is a major cause of ED.

Individuals with a variety of anxiety disorders, including social phobia, obsessive–compulsive disorder and posttraumatic stress disorder, manifest higher rates of sexual disorders, including ED. Depression has long been associated with sexual problems. In fact, the loss of sexual desire is considered one of the most common symptoms of depression. In men with serious depression, the incidence of ED can be as high as 90%. Depression has also been shown to be associated with reduced nocturnal erectile capacity, highlighting an underlying biochemical connection between depression and ED. Psychiatric treatment of depression, however, is also frequently associated with ED. A largescale study found that 37% of patients on antidepressant medications manifested a sexual disorder. While the most common sexual  side effects of antidepressants are inhibited orgasm and decreased libido, the prevalence of ED is also higher in men taking these medications. All classes of medications for depression have been implicated in ED, but it is most common for selective-serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It is often unclear, however, whether the ED is the result of the illness or the treatment, so both must be considered.

Both treated and untreated men with schizophrenia demonstrate increased incidence of ED and those on antipsychotic treatment show greater difficulties. It is difficult to separate the various possible factors that may link schizophrenia to ED, which include the disorder itself, the medications used to treat it, and the psychosocial impact of the illness on the ability to develop sexual relationships. Unfortunately, men on antipsychotics may discontinue their use because of the perceived sexual side-effects.

Epidemiology of Erectile Dysfunction and Key Risk Factors Part 2

July 14th, 2012 No comments

The role of medical comorbidities and risk factors has been shown to be increasingly important. Findings from multiple epidemiological studies have also shown convincingly that ED impacts mood state, interpersonal functioning, and overall quality of life (2–8). ED is associated with a wide range of psychosocial consequences and risk factors, such as decreased quality of life (QoL), poor self-esteem and increased incidence of depression and interpersonal relationship problems. Numerous studies have demonstrated that ED can undermine a man’s QoL; for example, Jønler et al.have shown that patients with the loss of erectile function within the past year had significantly lower QoL than men without ED. Similarly, in other recent studies, men with a complaint of ED had poorer QoL than age-matched men from the general population. QoL was also shown to be impaired in men with ED and diabetes who showed significantly higher levels of diabetes-specific health distress, worse psychological adaptation to and acceptance of diabetes, and a less satisfactory sexual life.

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Moreover, these men were more easily frustrated and discouraged by their diabetes, which translated into worse metabolic control and higher levels of depressive symptoms. Although not a life-threatening condition, ED is thought to have a profound effect on the quality of life of aging men. Moreover, ED is viewed increasingly as a harbinger or signal of future cardiovascular events. The role of comorbidities has been recognized since the MMAS and other early epidemiologic findings. Among the major comorbidities and risk factors for ED are diabetes, depression, and cardiovascular disease.

This classic trio of risk factors has been implicated in multiple epidemiologic studies, across multiple populations and research settings. Medications for diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and depression may also cause erectile difficulties. In addition, there is a substantially higher prevalence of erectile dysfunction among men who have undergone radiation or surgery for prostate cancer, or who have a lower spinal cord injury or other neurological diseases (e.g., Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis). Life style factors, including smoking, alcohol consumption, and sedentary behavior are additional risk factors. Despite its increasing prevalence among older men, erectile dysfunction is not considered a normal or inevitable part of the aging process. It is rarely (in fewer than 5% of cases) due to aging-related hypogonadism, although the relationship between erectile dysfunction and age-related declines in androgen remains controversial.

Epidemiology of Erectile Dysfunction and Key Risk Factors Part 1

July 13th, 2012 No comments

Erectile dysfunction is a significant and common medical problem. Epidemiologic surveys in the past 20 years suggest that approximately 30–40% of men over 40 have ED to one degree or another. Data from the Massachusetts Male Aging Study (MMAS) have shown that ED is a common occurrence among aging men with a prevalence rate of 34.8% of moderate to complete ED. The disorder is highly age-dependent, as the prevalence rises from 2% for men aged 40–49, 6% for men aged 50–59, 17% for men aged 60–69, and 39% for men aged 70 and older. Recent reports from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III) and the Males Attitude Regarding Sexual Health Survey (MARSH) show similar prevalence estimates. NHANES data suggests that Hispanics are more likely to report ED especially at younger ages (<50 years), a pattern not observed in the MARSH study.

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Erectile dysfunction is a significant and common medical problem. Epidemiologic surveys in the past 20 years suggest that approximately 30-40% of men over 40 have ED to one degree or another. Data from the Massachusetts Male Aging Study (MMAS) have shown that ED is a common occurrence among aging men with a prevalence rate of 34.8% of moderate to complete ED. The disorder is highly age-dependent, as the prevalence rises from 2% for men aged 40–49, 6% for men aged 50–59, 17% for men aged 60–69, and 39% for men aged 70 and older. Recent reports from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III) and the Males Attitude Regarding Sexual Health Survey (MARSH) show similar prevalence estimates. NHANES data suggests that Hispanics are more likely to report ED especially at younger ages (<50 years), a pattern not observed in the MARSH study. The role of aging in ED has been investigated in several studies. In a large national sample of men (N = 1,455) between the ages of 57 and 85 years of age, 37% of men in the overall sample had problems with ED, increasing to 44% in the 75–85 year age group.

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Men were asked whether or not they had “difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection for several months or more during the past year.” Of note, 90% of men with ED reported being bothered by the problem. Fourteen percent of men in the sample reported the use of medications to improve sexual function. As in previous studies, age and diabetes were significant independent risk factors for ED in this study, in addition to overall health and well-being. Previously, Laumann et al. had shown that ED increases from 7% in men under 30 to 18% in men aged 50–59. Taken together with the recent findings from the Lindau et al. study, it appears that ED increases about 400-fold from less than 10% of men under age 30, to almost 50% of men aged 50 and above. However, we should note that almost 50% of men aged 50 and above do not develop ED, and thus it should not be viewed as a natural or inevitable consequence of aging.

Buy Generic Viagra Online and Enjoy Paradisaic Sexual Pleasure

July 8th, 2012 No comments

The agony of being unable to have penile erections when you run an intense desire of sex is indeed lacerating. Since a long time, doctors have been treating the patients affected by such problems by using various implants and injections. However with the development of Viagra, they have now far better option to recommend to their patients. In order to buy generic Viagra, the patients can visit any of the medical stores in the vicinity however if they plan to buy generic Viagra Australia online, it is important for them approached the most authentic online source.

A fruitful remedy to restore sexual function

Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is a serious affliction that needs to be dealt with seriously. Thankfully, with the widespread availability of generic Viagra online, such a problem has found a concrete solution. More than the affected men, this efficacious remedy is a significant boost for the women who often get frustrated due to dismal performance of their partners on bed. Decreased libido could lead to enormous frustration and may also cause emotional and physical turmoils among both the sex partners. With the decision to buy generic Viagra online, men suffering from this torturous problem are more likely to get a thriving chance to get back to macho sex performance. This could also improve the so far soaring relationship with their partner.

Effective outcome of intense research work

Since a long time, the researchers had been persistent in their endeavors to find out a solid remedy to cure Erectile Dysfunction. Their efforts finally paid off in 1991 when they developed Viagra as a strong drug to ensure instant erections in human penis. However, the medicine was officially recognized as a viable treatment for ED only in 1998. Since then, generic Viagra has worked wonders towards bringing that much desired spunk in the sexual lives of millions all across the globe.

Emancipating the affected ones from the nightmares of sexual disruptions

More than 70 percent of the male population spanning all across the globe experiences the nightmares of ED due to certain health conditions such as kidney disease, diabetes, nervous breakdown, damage of arteries, failure or damage of kidneys, chronic alcoholism and so on. All these problems compel the people to perform badly on bed. With the invention of Viagra, such a sexual disruption problem has been get away with convincingly. People are now more game with the idea to buy generic Viagra online and make merry with their sex partner.

The Best Erectile Dysfunction Help!

July 6th, 2012 No comments

While millions of American males today are scrambling to get pills and contraptions for erectile dysfunction help, more of them are also reporting side effects of taking prescription drugs. These prescription drugs are synthetic formulations that work by inhibiting the chemical phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5), the chemical that is responsible for the inability of males to achieve or sustain erection for sexual intercourse. Taking these prescription drugs have been known to result in a number of minor discomforts such as headaches, facial flushing, nasal congestion, dyspepsia, and vision problems. In extreme cases, people taking these PDE5 inhibitors experience at some point, cardiovascular problems and even sudden deaths. The best erectile dysfunction help has been known to come from natural treatments for male impotence.

In most cases, erectile dysfunction help can focus on improving blood circulation especially in the penile area. Studies show that over 90% of those who suffer from erectile dysfunction have poor blood circulation. Synthetic pills can solve this but would also bring more harm than good especially if you are already suffering from other ailments like diabetes and hypertension. There are several ways to get erectile dysfunction help naturally and in most cases, these adjustments in diet, lifestyle, and supplementation are recommended by physicians first before moving on to synthetic and surgical erectile dysfunction help.

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Diet. Staying away from high fat and high cholesterol diets is known to result in improved circulation levels. A diet that is rich in whole, unrefined, fresh, and unprocessed foods is good for those suffering from erectile dysfunction. Fruits and vegetables along with whole grains and nuts are also helpful. Eating snails can also serve to fulfil a body’s recommended amounts of zinc, a minerals that enhances sexual functioning of males. Oysters, shellfish, lean pork and beef, and legumes are also great sources of zinc. Foods rich in vitamins C and E can also provide the much needed erectile dysfunction help.

Lifestyle. A healthy lifestyle that is free from vices and stressors are good for erectile functioning. Taking away smoking, excessive caffeine, and excessive alcohol can increase blood circulation and provide erectile dysfunction help. Much stress can also impact blood circulation as well as the psychological frame of mind needed in intimate moments. Alleviating stress through relaxation techniques and breathing exercises prior to sexual intercourse can enhance erectile functioning.

Supplementation. Mineral deficiency is one of the known causes of erectile dysfunction. Supplementing the body’s mineral requirements will enhance blood flow and erectile functioning. In today’s fast-paced environment, food consumption rarely ever provides the complete dose of vitamins and minerals recommended for a healthy and balanced diet. Vitamin C and E are important nutrients that can help not only in erectile dysfunction but in other bodily functions as well. Amino acid arginine, bioflavonoids, and zinc are also important in erectile dysfunction treatments. Herbal treatments consisting of gingko biloba and ginseng are effective and side effects-free medication for erectile dysfunction.

Men can definitely get help for erectile dysfunction from natural health remedies. Aside from improving penile erection, successful erectile dysfunction help will result in enjoying better over-all health, improved sexual health, weight loss, and absolutely no side-effects.