As with any medical condition, erectile dysfunction (ED) can best be treated promptly. The sooner it is diagnosed and treated, the better the outcome, for the following reasons:

First, identifying and correcting the underlying problem will help prevent further deterioration, a natural progression of the condition. There is no long-term benefit of treating only the symptoms of ED.

Second, disuse of an organ can cause progressive loss of function via progressive loss of healthy tissue. This condition is called “disuse atrophy” and is particularly important in the case of penile health, as explained next.

The penile tissue remains healthy, supple and functional only with a constant and healthy supply of oxygenated blood, which comes about only with regular episodes of erections. Therefore, an absence of erections, for whatever reason, can result in progressive loss of healthy penile tissue, leading to progressive loss of function. Once irreversible damage has occurred, treatment options may become more limited or unsuccessful. Therefore, the earlier ED treatment is sought, the better the opportunity for an effective treatment plan to restore healthy blood flow to the penis.

Third, ED is more than just a sexual problem. A fulfilling sex life can lead to greater satisfaction in many other aspects of life, including social, family and work environments.

Finally, a healthful sex life can contribute to your overall good health and well-being.

Studies indicate that couples with a healthy sex life are not only affected less by problems such as depression, anxiety, hypertension, diabetes, ulcers, chronic fatigue, viral illness and other ailments, but may also have a longer life expectancy. *

*The Healing Power of Sex, Judith Sachs, 1997