Top

Erectile Dysfunction: Precursor to heart disorder

Men’s Health Awareness Week: Time to raise awareness about sexual health

Most men consider concealing Erectile Dysfunction (ED) due to various social stigmas associated with it. Over a period of time, ED not only reduces the sexual drive but also results in failed relationships and isolation. And, if you are a heart patient, the problems will just multiply.

Dr Vasan S S, Uro-Andrologist, Chairman at Manipal Fertility, Bengaluru shares, “A precursor to heart diseases, ED is generally caused due to the deposition of plaque in the inner lining of the blood vessels (endothelium) and smooth muscle. Both heart and a penis have an underlying neurovascular structure. Any blockage in the smooth flow of blood can lead to congestion in the chest as well as a limp penis. While ED does not always indicate and leads to a heart condition, a majority of patients with ED present symptoms of coronary artery blockages. Therefore, it becomes imperative for a patient to be screened for both heart diseases and an ED before starting any treatment.”

Before anxiety, stress and low self-esteem toil you down, it's time to seek timely clinical support. The good news is, with advancements in the field of Andrology, treating ED is now possible and a patient can bounce back to enjoying personal moments again. Did you know that treatment options like penile implants and penis pumps can help address the spike in patients with ED in India?

Also Read: Is porn the real cause of erectile dysfunction?

“Most men do not even understand the medical condition properly and lack awareness about the existence of a medical speciality like ‘Andrology’ to treat ED. As we approach the Men’s health awareness, it’s time to bridge the gap of knowledge by raising the importance of sexual health. What you must understand is, ED is reversible with innovative diagnostic solutions such as penile implants,” shares Dr Vineet Malhotra, Clinical director, Urologist & Endrologist, Diyos Hospital.

For men with ED whose condition has progressed beyond the therapeutic care of tablets, injectables, and therapies, science has ushered a new ray of hope. The progress in the field of Andrology has brought smarter, effective, and minimally invasive equipment such as penis pumps and penile implants to treat ED. Take, for instance, penile implants (inflatable or semi-rigid rods).

Dr Rupin Shah, Department of Andrology, Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai shares, "The surgical procedure involves implanting the device through a small incision below the penis. The device consists of a pair of inflatable cylinders, a pump and a reservoir. All components are in the body and not visible outside. The cylinders can be inflated or deflated by squeezing the pump, making the penis erect or flaccid at will. With penile implants, you can restore physical intimacy within a span of four to six weeks. Extremely safe and highly efficient, the procedure is the most effective option for managing severe ED.”

The time is right to educate people on the need for early clinical intervention such as penile implants. Hesitating to consult a specialist cannot cure ED. Not merely restricted to a limp penis, ED is a precursor to impending heart disease. Hence, it’s time we address ED with smarter innovations and improve the overall quality of life for a patient.

Next Story