In this article, we will be explaining how an erection works, the causes and symptoms of erectile dysfunction and the various erectile dysfunction treatments available in Hong Kong.
Erectile Dysfunction (ED) refers to the inability or difficulty to get or maintain an erection, even when aroused. ED occurs when there is an insufficient amount of blood flowing to the penis, when the penis is unable to trap the blood and produce an erection, or when the brain is unable to send signals and reach the penis. ED can have different levels of severity and can be caused by a variety of physiological or psychological factors.
ED is one of the most common sexual dysfunction issues in men, affect 1 out of 10 men throughout their lives. The occurrence of ED increases as men age and can negatively affect men's relationships, self-esteem and quality of life.
Symptoms of erectile dysfunction include:
- Trouble getting an erection
- Not being able to keep the erection for long
- Experiencing a reduced desire for sexual activities
ED can be safely and effectively treated with medication, therapy or surgery.
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Here are some of the most common ED treatments available in Hong Kong:
1. Prescription Oral Medication
Oral medication like Viagra, Spedra and Cialis are often prescribed by doctors as the first line of treatment for ED.
These medications fall under a class of medications called phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (PDE5 inhibitors). They restrict the amount of phosphodiesterase-5, an enzyme that degrades cGMP (a molecule that relaxes muscle tissue). By suppressing PDE5, these medications relax the muscles in the blood vessel walls. This improves the blood flow to your penis and makes it easier for you to achieve an erection.
Contrary to popular belief, ED medication won't increase your libido or cause random long-lasting erections when you take it. In order the medication to work, you will still need to be sexually aroused. However with the use of ED medication, it makes it much easier for men to get an erection.
It is possible that ED medication can cause mild side effects like:
Unfortunately, you will not be able to purchase any oral ED medication over-the-counter in Hong Kong. You will need to see a doctor for a prescription.
2. Penile Injections
If you find that ED medication is not working for you, you can consider alprostadil injections. Administered directly into the penis, they work by expanding the blood vessels and increasing the blood flow to the penis.
Once injected, they can produce an erection quickly which can last up to an hour.
Potential side effects of alprostadil injections are priapism (prolonged erections), mild bleeding, and in rare cases, the development of fibrous tissues near the injection site.
3. Penile Implants
If other ED treatments don't seem to be working for you, you might be recommended by your doctor to get penile implants.
Penile implants work by surgically inserting a small tube on both sides of the penis. They are pumped with air which helps to erect your penis.
4. Suppositories
Alprostadil urethral suppository is inserted into the tip of the penis. Absorbed by the urethral wall, the medication produces an erection that can last up to an hour.
Potential side effects can include pain, a burning sensation in the penis and minor bleeding.
5. Vacuum Restriction Devices (Penis Pump)
Also known as a penis pump, vacuum restriction devices can be prescribed as an ED treatment. A hollow tube is placed over the penis and connected to either a hand-operated or battery-operated pump.
The user pumps the device, causing blood to flow towards the penis. In order to keep the blood within the penis, a tension rubber ring is put around the base of the penis. This allows an erection to be had for up to 30 minutes.
6. Talk Therapy
While ED medications like Viagra and Cialis are able to treat the physiological causes of ED, they are unable to treat potential psychological causes like stress, anxiety or depression.
In order to treat those, your doctor might suggest undergoing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), conducted by a therapist. You can also try breathing exercises, meditation or guided imagery to help relieve some of the symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression.
While some forms of ED can be cured, this is depending on the root cause of the ED.
"Reversible" causes of ED include stress, alcohol use and obesity. Once these conditions are treated, the ED will be cured.
"Treatable" causes of ED include high cholesterol and hormonal imbalances. Once treated, you will see symptoms of your ED improve.
Unfortunately there is no definitive ED treatment that can be used by all.
Different causes of ED require different treatment. As mentioned earlier, it is possible that by treating the underlying issue, you can effectively treat your ED.
It is recommended that you consult with a doctor to determine the root cause of your ED before deciding on treatment.
While on ED medication, it is possible that you might experience mild side effects like headaches, dizziness, nasal congestion, nausea and flushing. Most of these side effects will eventually wear off after a few hours.
Articles featured on Noah are for informational purposes only and should not be constituted as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you have any medical questions or concerns, please talk to your healthcare provider. If you're looking for a healthcare provider, click here.
Gerbild, H., Larsen, C., Graugaard, C. and Areskoug Josefsson, K., 2018. Physical Activity to Improve Erectile Function: A Systematic Review of Intervention Studies. Sexual Medicine, 6(2), pp.75-89. (Link)
Chung, E., 2019. Sexuality in Ageing Male: Review of Pathophysiology and Treatment Strategies for Various Male Sexual Dysfunctions. Medical Sciences, 7(10), p.98. (Link)
Tan, J., Hong, C., Png, D., Liew, L. and Wong, M., 2003. Erectile dysfunction in Singapore: prevalence and its associated factors--a population-based study. Singapore Medical Journal, 44(1). (Link)
