It is estimated that, at any time, more than 200,000 men in Ireland are affected by erectile dysfunction (ED), according to the Sexual Dysfunction Information Bureau. Most men will occasionally suffer from some form of impotence but ED is medically defined as the persistent inability to retain an erection long enough to complete sexual intercourse. It can be devastating for men, and can have an impact on their mental well-being and affect their relationships with partners and spouses.

Seeking help
Sadly, fewer than one in four men ever seek help from their doctor for a sexual health problem, despite the fact that, in most cases, ED can be treated very successfully. However, a new online consultation service, established by Kildare-based GP Dr Andrew Rynne (www.andrewrynne.com), is helping to take the embarrassment out of seeking help for ED and other sexual dysfunction problems.

“Erectile dysfunction is a very common problem,” says Rynne. “In younger men, it tends to be mainly due to performance anxiety where one ‘failure’ leads to another. In older men, ED is more likely to have a physical cause rather than psychogenic.

“Testosterone deficiency, arteriosclerosis, diabetes or any chronic illness might all be contributing factors. If any man lives long enough, he will eventually get ED but it is treatable if that is what the man and his partner desire. However, I suspect many couples resign themselves to ED, which is fine if that’s what they want,” he adds.

“Embarrassment is an issue for men because ED is still confused with masculinity or manliness and the internet is one way around this problem,” Rynne explains.

Online information
Men who suspect they have ED or other sexual health issues can fill out a detailed medical questionnaire online, and receive information and recommendations for help and available treatments.

“All ED is treatable but the underlying cause must first be diagnosed. That is the key to success,” he says.

Treatments
Treatments vary and include: oral drugs with PDE5 inhibitors, which include Viagra, Cialis and Levitra; medications that are inserted or injected into the penis; vacuum devices; and, in limited cases, surgery.

However, other men suffering from ED can be treated through psychological, behavioural or sexual therapy.

Experts warn against taking herbal remedies; if taken in the wrong dosage, they can cause kidney failure and other serious health complications.

Lifestyle
In more recent times, lifestyle changes are proving effective in the treatment of ED, with several studies suggesting a link between ED and obesity, high cholesterol, hypertension, diabetes and heart disease.

A recent Italian study from the University of Naples claimed that, following a two-year lifestyle change programme, a reduction in body weight, improved quality of diet and increased physical activity improved the erectile function of men suffering with ED.