Category: Male Health

Definition and classification of premature ejaculation

The term “premature ejaculation” throughout the twentieth century and still refers to the subject of discussion in modern andrology and sexopathology.

The International Society for Sexual Medicine (ISSM) defines this copulatory disorder: “Premature ejaculation is a male sexual dysfunction that is characterized by:

  • always or almost always by ejaculation before penetration of the penis or during the first minute from the beginning of sexual intercourse during the first sexual experience (primary form) or a significant decrease in the time of intravaginal delay of ejaculation to 3 minutes or less (acquired form);
  • the lack of the ability to delay ejaculation during sexual intercourse always or almost always;
  • the presence of a negative impact on the interpersonal relationships of partners in the form of anxiety, frustration and avoidance of coitus.

It is noteworthy that this definition applies only to vaginal sexual contact in heterosexual partners.

According to ICD-10, premature ejaculation (code F52. 2) is the inability to control ejaculation to the extent that is sufficient for both partners to receive satisfaction from sexual intercourse. This definition is more based on a subjective assessment of the quality of coitus within a couple.

Additionally, the following forms of early ejaculation are distinguished – variable and subjective. Persons with a variable form only sometimes note problems with ejaculation, but this fact should be perceived as a natural feature of a man’s sexuality. In the subjective form, as a rule, complaints about early ejaculation are noted, while the value of VISAS remains within the normal range. It should be understood that the development of this form is based on the psychological and cultural characteristics of the individual.

Premature ejaculation: Epidemiology

Information about the prevalence of premature ejaculation (PE) in the population is the cause of a lot of controversy in the urological community. The lack of a single definition, classification, and optimal criteria for sampling patients with PE led to significant variability in statistical data.

E. Serefoglu et al. the prevalence of 4 forms of PE was studied in 1296 male patients (average age 41.9±12.7 years). The frequency of occurrence of PE was 20%. Separately, for the primary, secondary, variable and subjective forms, this indicator was 2.3, 3.9, 8.5 and 5.1%, respectively.

In the study of J. Gao et al. 3016 men took part and this indicator was higher than in a similar study by E. Serefoglu et al., and amounted to 12.3; 18.7; 44.9; 24.8%. It was noted that men with a secondary form of PE most often belonged to the older age group, had a large body mass index, somatic diseases, and also suffered from nicotine addiction. The frequency of occurrence of PE in them exceeded 25.8%.

The prevalence of primary and secondary forms of early PE in the general population is 5%. This indicator is consistent with previously published epidemiological data, which states that about 5% of men have a VIZ of less than 2 minutes.

Treatment of premature ejaculation

Psychotherapy/behavioral therapy
The main tasks of psychotherapy for men with PE are: 1) development of skills that allow for further ejaculatory control; 2) elimination of interpersonal problems of partners. Treatment can be carried out both individually and in a group.

The most well-known and used methods of behavioral therapy include “compression technique” and “stop-start technique”.

In the first case, the partner performs a sufficiently strong compression of the glandular part of the penis at the moment immediately preceding ejaculation (the woman puts her thumb on the bridle of the penis, and the index and middle fingers-on the coronal furrow and under it, on the opposite side of the penis). For 4 seconds. the partner squeezes the penis hard, and then abruptly releases it.

With the “start-stop” technique, the prolongation in time of the moment of ejaculation is achieved by stopping frictions at the first urge to ejaculate. After a pause, it is possible to continue coitus until the next sensations of the upcoming ejaculation appear.

To date, there are 3 publications that allow you to objectively evaluate the results of this type of treatment. In the work on the topic psychotherapy/behavioral therapy of PES. Althof et al. we came to the conclusion that the effects of behavioral therapy in patients with accelerated ejaculation are inconclusive and contradictory. A similar conclusion was reached in their work by S. Fruhauf et al.

premature ejaculation

For people with a variable form of PE, just a consultation with a urologist is enough. The doctor needs to explain to the patient that his case does not relate to pathology. After an unsuccessful attempt to convince a patient with a subjective form of PE to the contrary, it should be recommended to seek help from a psychotherapist.

Unfortunately, there is little data in the modern literature that can be used to judge the above methods of treatment, and the available publications do not meet the requirements for the design of studies (a small sample of patients, differences in the definitions of PE).

Pharmacotherapy

Modern pharmacotherapy has wide opportunities for the correction of PE. It includes the use of such groups of drugs as local anesthetics, SSRIs, phosphodiesterase inhibitors of type 5 (for example, Viagra or dopoxetine) and a-blockers.

Local anesthetics

Since an increase in the sensitivity of the glandular part of the penis plays a key role in the development of the primary form of PE, the use of local anesthetics is proposed to reduce sensory perception.

External use of gel, cream, spray based on lidocaine, prilocaine and benzocaine is the most long-standing method of drug treatment. When using them, it is worth remembering that they can cause local side effects in the form of a decrease in penile sensitivity, ED and allergic reactions on the skin.

March 28, 2023 / by Kevin Roberts

Sildenafil – The mechanism of action

The realization of the physiological mechanism of erection is associated with the release of nitric oxide (NO) in the cavernous body during sexual stimulation. This, in turn, leads to an increase in the level of cGMP, subsequent relaxation of the smooth muscle tissue of the cavernous body and an increase in blood flow. Sildenafil does not have a direct relaxing effect on the isolated human cavernous body, but it enhances the effect of nitric oxide by inhibiting PDE-5, which is responsible for the breakdown of cGMP.

Sildenafil is selective against PDE-5 in vitro, its activity against PDE-5 exceeds the activity against other known PDE isoenzymes: PDE-6 — by 10 times; PDE-1-by more than 80 times; PDE-2, PDE-4, PDE-7–PDE-11 — by more than 700 times. Sildenafil is 4000 times more selective against PDE-5 compared to PDE-3, which is of crucial importance, since PDE-3 is one of the key enzymes for the regulation of myocardial contractility.

A prerequisite for the effectiveness of sildenafil is sexual stimulation.

Sildenafil restores impaired erectile function under conditions of sexual stimulation by increasing blood flow to the cavernous bodies of the penis.

Sildenafil: clinical data

Cardiological studies. The use of sildenafil in doses up to 100 mg did not lead to clinically significant ECG changes in healthy volunteers. The maximum decrease in systolic pressure in the supine position after taking sildenafil at a dose of 100 mg was 8.3 mm Hg, and diastolic pressure-5.3 mm Hg. A more pronounced, but also transient effect on blood pressure was observed in patients taking nitrates.

In a study of the hemodynamic effect of sildenafil in a single dose of 100 mg in 14 patients with severe coronary artery disease (more than 70% of patients had stenosis of at least one coronary artery), systolic and diastolic pressure at rest decreased by 7 and 6%, respectively, and pulmonary systolic pressure decreased by 9%. Sildenafil did not affect cardiac output and did not disrupt blood flow in stenosed coronary arteries, and also led to an increase (by about 13%) in adenosine-induced coronary flow in both stenosed and intact coronary arteries. In a double-blind placebo-controlled study, 144 patients with erectile dysfunction and stable angina, taking antianginal drugs (except nitrates), performed physical exercises until the severity of angina symptoms increased. The duration of the exercise was significantly longer (19.9 seconds; 0.9-38.9 seconds) in patients taking sildenafil in a single dose of 100 mg, compared with patients receiving placebo.

In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, the effect of changing the dose of sildenafil (up to 100 mg) was studied in men (n=568) with erectile dysfunction and arterial hypertension taking more than two antihypertensive drugs. Sildenafil improved erection in 71% of men compared to 18% in the placebo group. The frequency of adverse effects was comparable to that in other groups of patients, as well as in those taking more than three antihypertensive drugs.

Studies of visual disorders. In some patients, 1 hour after taking sildenafil at a dose of 100 mg, a slight and transient impairment of the ability to distinguish shades of color (blue/green) was detected using the Farnsworth-Mansell 100 test. After 2 hours after taking the drug, these changes were absent. It is believed that the violation of color vision is caused by the inhibition of PDE-6, which is involved in the process of color transmission in the retina of the eye. Sildenafil had no effect on visual acuity, contrast perception, electroretinogram, IOP or pupil diameter.

In a placebo-controlled cross-sectional study of patients with proven early-age macular degeneration (n=9), sildenafil in a single dose of 100 mg was well tolerated. There were no clinically significant changes in vision assessed by special visual tests (visual acuity, Amsler grid, color perception, color passage modeling, Humphrey perimeter and photostress).

Effectiveness. The efficacy and safety of sildenafil were evaluated in 21 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials lasting up to 6 months in 3,000 patients aged 19 to 87 years with erectile dysfunction of various etiologies (organic, psychogenic or mixed). The effectiveness of the drug was evaluated globally using an erection diary, the international index of erectile function (a validated questionnaire on the state of sexual function) and a partner survey.

The effectiveness of sildenafil, defined as the ability to achieve and maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual intercourse, has been demonstrated in all studies conducted and confirmed in long-term studies lasting 1 year. In fixed-dose studies, the ratio of patients who reported that the therapy improved their erection was 62% (sildenafil 25 mg dose), 74% (sildenafil 50 mg dose) and 82% (viagra – sildenafil 100 mg dose) compared to 25% in the placebo group. The analysis of the international index of erectile function showed that in addition to improving the erection, treatment with sildenafil also increased the quality of orgasm, allowed achieving satisfaction from sexual intercourse and general satisfaction.

According to the generalized data, among the patients who reported an improvement in erection during treatment with drugs, there were 59% of diabetic patients, 43% of patients who underwent radical prostatectomy and 83% of patients with spinal cord injuries (versus 16, 15 and 12% in the placebo group, respectively).

sildenafil

Pharmacokinetics

The pharmacokinetics of sildenafil in the recommended dose range is linear.

Suction. After oral administration, sildenafil is rapidly absorbed. The absolute bioavailability on average is about 40% (from 25 to 63%). In vitro, sildenafil at a concentration of about 1.7 ng/ml (3.5 nM) suppresses the activity of human PDE-5 by 50%. After a single dose of sildenafil at a dose of 100 mg, the average Cmax of free sildenafil in the blood plasma of men is about 18 ng/ml (38 nM). Cmax when taking sildenafil orally on an empty stomach is achieved on average within 60 minutes (from 30 to 120 minutes). When taken in combination with fatty foods, the absorption rate decreases: Cmax decreases by an average of 29%, and Tmax increases by 60 minutes, but the degree of absorption does not significantly change (AUC decreases by 11%).

Distribution. The Vss of sildenafilum is on average 105 liters. The association of sildenafil and its main circulating N-demethyl metabolite with plasma proteins is about 96% and does not depend on the total concentration of the drug. Less than 0.0002% of the dose of viagra (an average of 188 ng) was detected in semen 90 minutes after taking the drug.

Metabolism. Sildenafil is metabolized mainly in the liver under the action of the isoenzyme CYP3A4 (main pathway) and the isoenzyme CYP2C9 (minor pathway). The main circulating active metabolite formed as a result of N-demethylation of sildenafil undergoes further metabolism. The selectivity of this metabolite against PDE is comparable to that of sildenafil, and its activity against PDE-5 in vitro is about 50% of the activity of sildenafil. The concentration of the metabolite in the blood plasma of healthy volunteers was about 40% of the concentration of tablets. The N-demethyl metabolite undergoes further metabolism; its T1/2 is about 4 hours.

Withdrawal. The total clearance of sildenafil is 41 l / h, and the final T1/2 is 3-5 h. After oral administration, as well as after intravenous administration, sildenafil is excreted as metabolites, mainly by the intestines (about 80% of the oral dose) and to a lesser extent by the kidneys (about 13% of the oral dose).

Special patient groups: Old age. In healthy elderly patients (older than 65 years), the clearance of sildenafil is reduced, and the concentration of free sildenafil in blood plasma is about 40% higher than in young patients (18-45 years). Age does not have a clinically significant effect on the frequency of side effects.

Impaired renal function. With mild (creatinine Cl 50-80 ml/min) and moderate (creatinine Cl 30-49 ml/min) degree of renal insufficiency, the pharmacokinetics of sildenafil after a single oral dose of 50 mg does not change. In severe renal insufficiency (creatinine Cl < 30 ml/min), the clearance of sildenafilum decreases, which leads to an approximately twofold increase in the values of AUC (100%) and Cmax (88%) compared with those of normal renal function in patients of the same age group.

Liver function disorders. In patients with cirrhosis of the liver (classes A and B according to the Child-Pugh classification), the clearance of medication decreases, which leads to an increase in the values of AUC (84%) and Cmax (47%) compared to those with normal liver function in patients of the same age group. The pharmacokinetics of viagra in patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class C) has not been studied.

March 14, 2023 / by Kevin Roberts

Diagnosis of erectile dysfunction today

Diagnosis of erectile dysfunction (ED). ED is a widespread condition that is not life – threatening, but affects the physical and mental health of men. ED has a significant impact on the quality of life of both the man himself and his partner and family members.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), erectile dysfunction is observed in every tenth man over the age of 21. At the age of 40-50 years, ED is detected in 40% of men, in 50-60 years in 57%. Every third man over the age of 60 is not able to perform sexual intercourse at all.

To date, it is known that an erection is a complex psychoneurovascular reaction that occurs as a result of the close interaction of the endocrine, nervous, and cardiovascular systems. When these systems become discoordinated and men lose the ability to achieve or maintain sufficient erections to satisfy their sexual needs, a condition called ED develops.

ED is a multifactorial, polyethological disease. The occurrence of an adequate erection of the penis can be significantly influenced by three key factors: systemic diseases, poor nutrition and medication. It should be noted that with age, the frequency of somatic burden increases, which negatively affects erectile function, in particular, arterial hypertension, coronary heart disease and diabetes mellitus develop. In this regard, a comprehensive personalized approach to the diagnosis of ED is needed to determine the true cause of the development of ED and determine further treatment tactics.

Today, in addition to lifestyle modification (maintaining sufficient physical activity, quitting smoking) and limiting risk factors (normalizing lipid levels, blood pressure, and blood sugar), there are three lines of ED therapy. The first line includes the use of phosphodiesterase inhibitors of the fifth type, the second – vacuum devices for erection, shock wave therapy, intracavernous injections. Finally, the third-line method is the implantation of penile prostheses (phalloprosthesis). To determine the pathogenetic treatment of ED, its nature should be established. A personalized treatment and diagnostic approach with the use of additional research methods will allow you to get the expected better treatment results in the long term.

Diagnosis of erectile dysfunction

One of the paradigms of modern ED diagnostics currently implies a single algorithm for examining all patients. However, this position leads to ineffective treatment.

It is known that ED is not a disease, but a symptom. For example, to date, there is sufficient evidence that ED can be a potential marker of cardiovascular diseases, since it occurs due to endothelial dysfunction, damage to the coronary arteries and peripheral vessels. Thus, endothelial dysfunction can lead to a violation of the mechanisms of normal blood flow in the pelvis, as well as in the coronary circulation system. At the same time, the pathogenetic causes of endothelial dysfunction may be different.

In this regard, today more than ever, the question of optimizing the existing modern methods of diagnosing ED, aimed at assessing the state of the endothelium, as well as the androgen and psychosexual status of a man, is relevant. The main task of the survey is to form a complete objective picture of the state of health of a man and actively correct the detected deviations. In this case, the treatment of ED will be highly effective, as pathogenetically justified and safe as possible.

Currently, the examination of men suffering from ED includes a number of laboratory and instrumental diagnostic measures. In addition to assessing the history of the disease, sexual disorders, conducting questionnaires (according to the International Index of Erectile Function, the Questionnaire of Age-related symptoms of Androgen Deficiency in men, the Hospital Scale of Anxiety and Depression), laboratory tests (determining the level of glucose, total testosterone, lipid profile, etc.), special research methods deserve special attention. These include assessment of nocturnal penile tumescence and rigidity, pharmacodopplerography of penile vessels, assessment of systemic endothelial function, electrophysiological examination of the penis, and cavernosography.

Assessment of nocturnal penile tumescence and penile rigidity

The greatest difficulties in the study of erectile disorders are caused by the differential diagnosis of psychogenic and organic disorders of erectile function. The preservation of spontaneous erections in the absence of adequate ones is considered an indirect sign of psychogenic disorders. A differential diagnosis between psychogenic and organic forms of ED can be made, including the assessment of nocturnal penile tumescence.

Nocturnal penile tumescence was first described by H. M. Halverson in 1940, who observed infants, and then by P. Ohlmeyer in 1944, who observed healthy men of all ages. In healthy men, during the night in the REM sleep phase, there are three to five episodes of spontaneous erections lasting on average about 10-15 minutes (from 20% of the sleep time during puberty to two to seven minutes in older age).

Monitoring of the development of nocturnal penile tumescence is carried out using the RigiScan computerized system, developed in 1985.The system allows you to qualitatively and quantitatively evaluate nocturnal erections. To date, the study of nocturnal penile tumescence remains an important tool in the diagnosis of ED, since it makes it possible to analyze the effectiveness of adequate therapy aimed at restoring sexual disorders.

Thus, it was shown that the assessment of penile tumescence helps to predict the effect of taking phosphodiesterase inhibitors of the fifth type (viagra, cialis, levitra or their analogues). S. M. Elhanbly demonstrated a positive correlation between rigidity in the head and base of the penis and the effectiveness of sildenafil.

In men who have undergone radical nerve-sparing prostatectomy, the assessment of nocturnal penile tumescence is important for an adequate choice of pharmacotherapy for the purpose of early recovery of sexual function. According to A. Bannowsky, with a well-performed operation, episodes of spontaneous erection are observed as early as the first night after the removal of the urethral catheter. In the absence of nocturnal penile tumescence, it is assumed that the neuronal integrity of the cavernous nerve has been damaged, and then, according to the authors, it is necessary to additionally use intracavernous injections to restore erectile function.

Assessment of nocturnal penile tumescence is also important for young males with spina bifida pathology, since the level of spinal cord damage plays a key role in the rehabilitation of sexual function.

diagnosis of erectile dysfunction

However, in patients with diabetes, the value of this test is reduced, since many of them have concomitant somatic diseases and take medications that affect the reliability of the results.

False-positive results can be observed in neurogenic ED. False negative-in old age of the patient, with his agitation, depressive states, sleep disorders and hypogonadism, as well as taking alcoholic beverages, antiandrogens, antidepressants, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, diuretics, sympatholytics, anticholinergic anticonvulsants, sedatives and narcotic drugs, nicotine.

However, the mechanism of development of spontaneous erections differs from adequate ones, and patients who have excellent nocturnal erections may have signs of ED. In this regard, the normal values according to the results of the study of nocturnal penile tumescence do not exclude organic ED. Therefore, the question of the diagnostic value of this method of investigation remains debatable to this day, and the assessment of nocturnal penile tumescence is mainly used in scientific and clinical studies.

Conclusion

The presented review of works published over the past decade confirms the fact that the main task of diagnosis of erectile dysfunction is to establish its true cause. It is obvious that it is advisable to use research methods with proven effectiveness, since this will ensure an effective approach to treatment. Currently, methods for diagnosis of erectile dysfunction need to be optimized. It is necessary to develop a personalized diagnostic algorithm aimed at assessing the state of the cardiovascular system, endothelium, androgen status, etc. to improve the effectiveness and safety of treatment for men suffering from various forms of ED.

March 3, 2023 / by Kevin Roberts

Erectile dysfunction (ED) and cardiovascular diseases

Numerous studies in recent years have proven the relationship between ED and cardiovascular diseases. They are often caused by atherosclerosis, which is preceded by dyslipidemia. Atherosclerosis of the arteries of the penis, manifested by ED, is often the primary symptom of systemic atherosclerosis. Therefore, the detection of atherosclerosis in the vessels of one localization increases the chance of finding it in the vessels of another localization. Thus, like fever in the prodrome of influenza, ED can serve as a reliable predictor of cardiovascular diseases in general and atherosclerosis in particular.

Therefore, when dyslipidemia is detected, in order to improve the state of erectile function, in addition to PDE-5 inhibitors, the patient should be additionally prescribed hypolipidemic drugs, such as statins. Such combination therapy with regular use significantly increases the effectiveness of treatment with PDE-5 inhibitors. So, against the background of constant intake of atorvastatin (Liprimar), sildenafil increases the International index of erectile function by 50% (without it-25%). In addition, combined therapy with PDE-5 inhibitors and antihypertensive drugs prevents the progression of atherosclerosis.

ED and cardiovascular diseases

The most difficult joint decision has to be made by a urologist and a cardiologist in men of the intermediate risk group, which includes patients with moderate stable angina, who have suffered a myocardial infarction within two to six weeks, as well as having extracardial manifestations of atherosclerosis (consequences of a brain stroke, obliterating atherosclerosis of the lower extremities) and left ventricular dysfunction/chronic heart failure of the second functional class (according to the classification proposed by the New York Association of Cardiologists).

On the one hand, the use of PDE-5 inhibitors, the gold standard in the treatment of ED, is generally quite safe. PDE-5 inhibitors (sildenafil citrate – Viagra) were originally developed as vascular drugs that significantly improve microcirculation by enhancing NO-dependent vasodilation. So, against the background of taking sildenafil citrate in patients with chronic stable angina, the time to a possible pain attack increased more than twice, the time to an attack requiring limited physical activity – more than three times, and the time to a decrease in the ST segment by 1 cm on an electrocardiogram – by more than 30%.

The risk of myocardial infarction with this drug was 0.5–0.8% (placebo – 0.9%), brain stroke – 0.3–0.4% (placebo – 0.9%), and the frequency of serious cardiovascular complications-2.3 – 3.9 (placebo–4.9) per 100 patient – years. On the other hand, in order to safely restore sexual activity, an in-depth cardiological examination and further follow-up by a cardiologist is necessary to determine which risk group (low, high) the patient belongs to. These circumstances once again emphasize the need for close professional contact between a urologist and a cardiologist in an individual solution to the problem of restoring sexual activity of a patient with cardiovascular diseases.

February 1, 2023 / by Kevin Roberts

Erectile dysfunction in diseases of the internal organs

There are numerous risk factors that create favorable conditions for the development of erectile dysfunction (ED): atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, arterial hypertension, kidney and liver failure, nervous (neuroses, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, neuropathies of various origins), mental (depression, astheno-depressive and hypochondriac conditions), endocrine (diabetes mellitus, hypo-and hyperthyroidism, androgen deficiency, hyperprolactinemia, obesity, metabolic syndrome) and urological (for example, chronic prostatitis) diseases. The most common conditions for which ED becomes one of the characteristic and persistent manifestations are age-related testosterone deficiency (18.3%), diabetes mellitus (35%), arterial hypertension (31%), dyslipidemia as a precursor of atherosclerosis (21%). In addition, the cause of ED can be the use of medications: antihypertensive agents (thiazide diuretics, beta-blockers), cardiac glycosides, blood sugar-lowering agents, hormones (estrogens, progestins, glucocorticoids, antiandrogens, gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists), tranquilizers, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, H2-receptor blockers, etc.

Today, phosphodiesterase inhibitors of the fifth type (PDE-5), intracavernous injections and endophalloprosthetics can solve the problem of ED in the vast majority of cases. However, the current effective treatment of ED is not a private task aimed at restoring impaired sexual function. Due to the variety of causes, ED should be considered as a symptom complex that is part of the clinical picture of a number of diseases of internal organs and systems (somatic), which directly depends on them in terms of severity and severity.

In this regard, the diagnosis of ED, especially developed against the background of diseases of internal organs, and the appointment of therapy, on the one hand, require the knowledge and participation of such specialists as a general practitioner, therapist, cardiologist, neurologist, nephrologist, and on the other, make it necessary for a urologist, andrologist, and sex therapist to closely study internal medicine – the very somatic diseases that are closely related to ED. In other words, ED, like most men’s health problems, is multidisciplinary. Therefore, men with erectile dysfunction have a chance to undergo a detailed medical examination, and as a result of the complex treatment prescribed in time, to improve not only their sexual life, but also, last but not least, their overall health.

Erectile dysfunction as a manifestation of endothelial dysfunction

There is no doubt that organic ED is based on a violation of the function of the vascular endothelium (endothelial dysfunction), which is aggravated by hypertension, dyslipidemia and diabetes mellitus. These disorders cause oxidative stress with a violation of the balance of pro-and antioxidant systems of the endothelium and the further development of persistent vasoconstriction, leading to the progression of hypertension, atherosclerosis with the development of coronary heart disease, their complications as a result of thrombosis with brain strokes and myocardial infarction, and, significantly, an early predictor in the form of ED. According to one study, 57% of men who underwent coronary artery bypass grafting had already suffered from ED long before the operation, and 64% of men hospitalized for the first acute myocardial infarction noted significant erectile dysfunction.

This is indirectly confirmed by common risk factors for ED and coronary heart disease, which include hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, depression, smoking, inactivity, and obesity. Thus, ED should be considered one of the early symptoms of cardiovascular disease. Sometimes patients with cardiovascular diseases are more concerned about ED than the risk of myocardial infarction on the background of coronary heart disease or brain stroke on the background of arterial hypertension. Causing psychological stress in a man, ED can not only aggravate the course of arterial hypertension and coronary heart disease, but also significantly disrupt the relationship between sexual partners, closing the pathological circle of the pathogenesis of the disease.

Erectile Dysfunction. Androgen-Deficiency

Due to the fact that ED is largely endothelial dysfunction, any drug effects aimed at improving the function of the vascular endothelium are considered favorable. In this regard, it is necessary to mention the well-known drug Impaza, which contains antibodies to human endothelial NO-synthase in ultra-low doses. According to the creators, the drug blocks its own antibodies to endothelial NO-synthase, increasing its activity. In this case, the potentiated antibodies to the endogenous regulator do not suppress its activity, but specifically modify it. In ultra-low doses, they have a specific effect, a safety profile equal to homeopathic drugs, do not cause increased individual sensitivity and, therefore, when administered orally, they can be a component of balanced therapy.

The overall sexual satisfaction of patients taking this drug, according to various studies, reaches 74%. At the same time, in 92.6% of patients with mild and moderate ED, regardless of age and duration of the disease, erectile function improves, in 51.8% – orgasm increases, in 48% – libido increases, in 82% – satisfaction with sexual intercourse increases [9]. The advantages of Impaza include the possibility of using it against the background of constant intake of nitrates, and if necessary, the drug can be combined with PDE-5 inhibitors, which significantly increases the therapeutic effect. For example, the International index of erectile function increases by 11% in monotherapy with Impaza of severe forms of ED, and in combination with Viagra – by 34%.

Erectile dysfunction and hypertension

Arterial hypertension in patients with ED is observed in more than 50% of cases and requires mandatory correction. Recovery of sexual function in hypertension may also have adverse consequences, since during sexual intercourse, systolic blood pressure and heart rate may increase by 50-70%. It has been shown that background antihypertensive therapy not only does not reduce the effectiveness of sildenafil, but also reduces the likelihood of developing undesirable side effects from taking this PDE-5 inhibitor. Thus, the feeling of hot flashes without antihypertensive therapy was observed with a frequency of 15.1%, against the background of taking one antihypertensive drug – 12.6%, two-10.4%, dizziness without therapy-2.8%, and when taking three antihypertensive drugs or more-only 1.7%.

Conclusion

The features of the etiology and pathogenesis of ED in somatic diseases of mature and elderly men determine the need to consider this symptom complex from a multidisciplinary perspective. Urologists need to improve their knowledge of somatic medicine. In addition, a patient with ED needs to consult therapists, cardiologists, and endocrinologists. Only joint efforts can improve the quality of life, as well as the prevention of sexual dysfunction in men of working, active mature and elderly age.

About such things as erectile dysfunction and chronic prostatitis, ED and androgen deficiency, Ed and cardiovascular diseases, we will talk in our next article.

January 19, 2023 / by Kevin Roberts

Restoration of potency after transurethral resection

Transurethral resection of the prostate is a minimally invasive and effective operation that is prescribed to patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia. Despite the minimal invasiveness, this method is characterized by some complications, among which there is a violation of potency. This condition is quite a serious problem, especially for young men. Fortunately, the violation of potency can be temporary and with proper, professional treatment disappears after a certain time.

Why is potency disturbed after surgery

According to the results of numerous studies, it was found that up to 40% of patients who underwent transurethral resection of the prostate gland face erectile dysfunction of various degrees of severity. The exact causes of this complication have not yet been established, but scientists have several assumptions. The psychological factor is also not ignored. The experiences of a man before surgery on an important organ for him have a negative effect on the erection. This is also facilitated by the painful sensations after transurethral resection – some men noted that because of the postoperative pain when urinating, they are afraid to enter into an intimate relationship. However, after 3-6 months, when the pain went away, they had a complete recovery of the erection.

What should I do if potency has disappeared after transurethral resection?

First of all, you need to contact a competent specialist. Self-medication, the use of traditional medicine and other methods can significantly worsen the patient’s condition. Before you start to restore potency, you need to be diagnosed and determine the cause of its violation. To do this, you will need to go through several stages:

  1. Interview with a doctor, analyze complaints, collect anamnesis, study the details of the operation.
  2. Laboratory tests. The doctor may prescribe the determination of the level of hormones in the blood, etc.
  3. Instrumental examination. It may include such methods as transrectal ultrasound of the prostate gland, Dopplerography of the vessels of the penis.

Experts emphasize that a decrease in the quality of sexual life is quite common, especially in elderly patients who have undergone any manipulations on the prostate gland. Do not hesitate to visit the doctor and try to solve the problem yourself. This approach can only make the situation worse.

transurethral resection

How to restore an erection after transurethral resection of the prostate gland

Modern medicine can offer several ways to help restore potency. Treatment can be complex, or limited to only one method. The exact plan is always developed individually and may include:

  • LOD-therapy. This method allows you to increase blood circulation in the vessels of the penis, restore the destroyed nerve connections and reflex mechanisms that are involved in the occurrence and maintenance of potency, due to local negative pressure. The treatment is relatively simple, but requires a certain amount of time to achieve the result.
  • Shock-wave therapy. The efficiency of the method is about 70%. The procedure helps restore blood circulation in the cavernous bodies, accelerates tissue regeneration after surgery, and relieves inflammation and pain. Of course, all these processes have a positive effect on potency.
  • Drug therapy. It includes the appointment of special drugs in tablet form, as well as injections into the penis. The latter method is considered the most effective, although not the most pleasant.
  • Related procedures. The recovery process can be affected by the patient’s exercise and lifestyle. In particular, it is recommended to give up smoking and other bad habits, it is necessary to eat properly, to be in the fresh air more often, to lead a mobile lifestyle.

In exceptional cases, when conservative treatment does not bring the desired result, penile prosthetic surgery (phalloprosthesis) may be prescribed. It should be approached very carefully, especially in elderly patients.

Thus, there are various ways to restore potency after transurethral resection of the prostate. Initially, it is important to determine the cause of this problem and find out the individual characteristics of the patient. It is impossible to get such information on your own, so if you develop erectile dysfunction, you should contact a urologist-andrologist. The doctor will conduct an examination, prescribe the necessary diagnosis and select the optimal treatment plan, which will need to be strictly followed. Only if all these conditions are met, you can achieve the maximum chance of recovery.

December 10, 2022 / by Kevin Roberts

How to replace Viagra – effective natural substitutes

Replace Viagra with natural aphrodisiacs

Natural aphrodisiacs affect erectile function and increase sexual activity, but they can not be considered a full-fledged substitute for Viagra. Yes, they increase sexual arousal, but they do not affect the state of the enzymes, and also do not suppress the premature release of seminal fluid.

The most effective natural aphrodisiacs are:

  • shellfish;
  • greenery;
  • nuts;
  • honey;
  • coffee;
  • dark chocolate;
  • cayenne pepper.

how to replace viagra

Natural Viagra for Men

You can take organic supplements, the action of which is aimed at restoring the process of blood circulation in the pelvis. These preparations may contain ginseng extract, deer antler (we do not trust this), walnut and other additives.

Such drugs stimulate the work of the reproductive system, improve the overall well-being and the state of the nervous system, restore the production of sperm. Home-made Viagra is called ginseng tincture. To prepare it, you need to put 100 grams of ginseng in a glass dish, pour 500 milligrams of vodka, and insist for a month. Take the product 30 drops once a day for one month.

What drugs can be taken instead of Viagra

There are a lot of such drugs, we will present two of them, this is Cialis Soft – an effective drug that provides a long-term stimulating effect. In the composition of the drug contains Tadalafil. The substance increases the quality of erection and blocks the process of early ejaculation. The effect of the product lasts at least 24 hours. And Levitra, which contains the inhibitor Vardenafil, which, like the main component of Viagra, suppresses premature ejaculation by reducing the production of the enzyme PDE-5. The action of the product lasts eight to ten hours.

We also recommend Dapoxetine – an effective tool for prolonging sexual intercourse. The drug has an inhibitory property, without reducing the sensitivity of the nerve endings. The effect lasts four hours, but dapoxetine is intended only for episodic use. It is effective for serious erectile dysfunction and does not cause any addiction.

December 4, 2022 / by Kevin Roberts

How does hirudotherapy help in matters of potency?

Hirudotherapy: The use of leeches for medical therapy. From hirudin, the active principle in the salivary secretion of leeches that acts as a potent anticoagulant (blood thinner).

hirudotherapy or viagra

Would you be able to treat yourself with leeches? Well, who’s brave?

Hirudotherapy within the framework of urology is becoming more popular year by year. More and more doctors are talking about the effectiveness of this type of treatment.

In urology, the indications for hirudotherapy are:

However, this is not all that such seemingly ordinary leeches help to cope with.

They solve such problems as pyelonephritis, cystitis, renal colic, low libido, hydronephrosis.

By the way, in the treatment of priapism and elephantiasis of the scrotum, leeches are almost the only treatment.

Well, where is it without potency! This is one of the main topics for men, and leeches and really well solve this issue. Why is this happening?

With the help of hirudotherapy, you can well improve blood circulation in the pelvic area. Blood completely fills the cavernous bodies of the sexual organ and there are no difficulties with potency. The effect of this procedure is visible almost immediately. Almost like after Viagra.

April 6, 2022 / by Kevin Roberts

Chronic prostatitis and erectile dysfunction

Prostatitis and erectile dysfunction-at all times, men have faced these problems. There is no” age ” in this insidious disease, it can appear even in young men. It is known that one of the causes of erectile dysfunction is chronic prostatitis. Therefore, due to such a close relationship between the two diseases, the approach to the treatment of erectile dysfunction should be comprehensive.

What is erectile dysfunction?

Normal erectile function in a man includes the ability to get an erection hard enough to penetrate a woman’s vagina, and maintain that erection long enough to complete sexual intercourse.

Erectile dysfunction is the inability to obtain and / or maintain a penile erection sufficient for adequate sexual relations. Early signs are loss of a morning erection, premature ejaculation, and lack of interest in sexual activity. It is known that smoking, drug use, and alcohol abuse play an important role in this issue. The risk of developing erectile dysfunction increases with concomitant conditions such as type II diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and dyslipidemia. However, the most common cause of erectile dysfunction is infectious diseases, with prostatitis in the first place.

What is prostatitis?

Prostatitis is an inflammatory disease of the prostate gland. It can affect all men: those who are in monogamous or polygamous relationships, and even virgins. Prostatitis is a very common pathology of the genitourinary system. Among the serious consequences of this disease can be called erectile dysfunction – many men mistakenly associate “failures” in sexual life with stress at work, fatigue and lack of sleep. But modern research has shown that infectious diseases, such as prostatitis, are most often the cause of problems in sexual relations.

To get rid of prostatitis, as well as to avoid serious complications (for example, impotence and infertility), it is necessary to seek qualified medical help from a urologist-andrologist when the first symptoms appear.

The main symptoms of prostatitis

  • Frequent urination.
  • Feeling of incomplete emptying of the bladder.
  • Pulling pains and discomfort in the lower back, lower abdomen and perineum.
  • Whitish or greenish discharge from the urethra.
  • Pain and heaviness in the anus.
  • Decreased libido and potency.

Prostatitis and erectile dysfunction, what is the connection?

If the endothelium of the vessels of the penis is damaged by exposure to chronic diseases and toxins, this leads to a decrease in erection.

However, there is another version: most doctors believe that sexual disorders in prostatitis are usually psychological in nature. Constant and exhausting pain causes depression and increased anxiety, unpleasant symptoms and chronic pain syndrome affect not only the general well-being, but also the mood of the man, brings him stress and discomfort. However, most modern urologists are of the same opinion: the cause of erectile dysfunction lies in organic damage to internal organs.

The importance of the prostate gland in the process of erection

Erection from the point of view of normal physiology is caused by complex neurovascular mechanisms, with several central and peripheral neurological mechanisms involved in addition to molecular, vascular, psychological and endocrinological factors, and the balance between them is what ultimately determines the functionality of the penis.

An erection is not a mechanical act that can be used as a hydraulic jack to lift at any time. It is a subtle physiological process that begins with a stimulus perceived by the brain, and that comes from visual perception, smell, sensation, or touch.

prostatitis and erectile dysfunction

A person’s sensitivity to this sexual stimulus largely depends not only on their level of the hormone testosterone, but mainly on its conversion to the active metabolite dihydrotestosterone, which is formed inside a healthy prostate under the influence of an enzyme called alpha-reductase. And if there are problems with the prostate gland, respectively, problems will appear with the metabolite, which will lead to difficulties during sexual intercourse.

Restoration of potency and treatment of prostate damage

If erectile dysfunction occurred against the background of infection, then no Viagra will help: it is necessary to remove the main cause.

Bacterial prostatitis, like any infection, is treated with antibiotics. However, to create the necessary concentration of drugs in the prostate, in the focus of infection, antibiotics are very difficult, and sometimes impossible. This is due to the fact that as a result of inflammation and swelling in the prostate, blood supply is significantly reduced. Only complex treatment will be effective – a combination of medications and physiotherapy that improves blood supply to the prostate gland, relieves its swelling. The doctor may prescribe such courses as extracorporeal magnetic stimulation, vibromagnetolaser massage, sinusoidal modulated currents, shock wave therapy, ozone therapy.

If the doctor prescribed the correct treatment and the man followed all the prescriptions and recommendations, then with the elimination of inflammation in the prostate, violations in sexual life disappear without a trace.

Prostatitis and erectile dysfunction: prevention

  • Regular sex life (this is a purely individual issue, but up to 30 years of age, the frequency of sexual contact 2-3 times a week is considered the norm).
  • Hygiene during sexual intercourse.
  • Healthy lifestyle.
  • Exclusion of injuries and hypothermia.
  • Regular urological examination (at least once a year for men over 40 years of age).

A person’s recommended lifestyle should include regular exercise, adequate sleep, smoking cessation, a balanced diet with an emphasis on Mediterranean food, and moderate alcohol consumption.

In order to feel masculine strength for as long as possible and maintain a high quality of life, when the first unpleasant symptoms appear, do not delay a visit to a qualified urologist-andrologist. Complete a comprehensive urological examination, get an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

March 8, 2022 / by Kevin Roberts

Sexual dysfunction and social adaptation

Sexual dysfunction: The concept of “violation of sexual function” traditionally includes a whole range of problems: these are violations of sexual desire, sexual arousal and orgasm, as well as pain during sexual intercourse caused by both medical and psychological problems of a person. Usually, even one of these problems leads to the inability or unwillingness to lead a sexual life, which seriously affects the social role of a person. And believe me, no viagra will help here.

Lack of sexual activity is a serious problem in people’s relationships. According to studies conducted in America in the 70s, 35% of women and 15% of men under the age of 50 say that they do not want to have sex with their spouse, and among young (under 30) unmarried people, 8% complain about the lack of sexual life in the presence of a partner.

Sexual dysfunction: Reasons

Doctors identify many reasons for the lack of sexual activity in couples. Traditionally, they are divided into psychological and organic.

Psychological factors include factors that are tied to a person’s perception of the surrounding reality. Among the most common are::

  • self-doubt;
  • fear of contracting a sexually transmitted disease;
  • overwork;
  • constant voltage;
  • insomnia.

But in addition to this, the cause can be child psychological trauma, temperament properties, difficulties in relationships with people, and much more.

Organic factors are associated with innate or acquired features due to diseases. They are associated with the physical inability to perform sexual intercourse. These can be:

It is worth noting that organic and psychological factors cannot be completely separated from each other. In about 5% of cases, they are closely interrelated.

Effects

Due to the lack of sexual life in a couple, there are usually serious problems in the relationship. Usually they are accompanied by depression, irritation, isolation. A man who is faced with impotence may not go to the doctor for a long time because of embarrassment, instead poisoning his body with numerous folk remedies and pills, which can then adversely affect his health as a whole.

sexual dysfunction

The main sign of the weakening of potency is a decrease in interest in sex, thoughts and fantasies on this topic disappear. The morning erection characteristic of a man’s body disappears or becomes irregular, and it also does not occur during sexual caresses. An erection can also disappear right during sexual intercourse. Sometimes a man may not attach importance to these “bells”, as this does not happen simultaneously.

Due to the huge number of reasons that can lead to violations of sexual function, the diagnosis can only be prescribed by the attending physician after the examination and collection of anamnesis. A few simple rules will help to prevent violations of sexual function.

February 11, 2022 / by Kevin Roberts