Deciphering the Connection: Nerve Damage Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile Dysfunction is a common sex problem and can be caused due to psychological and physical factors.
According to Johns Hopkins Medicines, nerve injuries and nerve damage from pelvic operations can also lead to ED.
The medical term for nerve damage is Neuropathy, and the type of Neuropathy associated with Erectile Dysfunction is Peripheral Neuropathy.
Neuropathy is also classified as Autonomic Peripheral Neuropathy, which affects the processes without our control, such as erection and digestion.
According to NCBI, Peripheral Neuropathy is a novel risk factor for Erectile Dysfunction.
Therefore, it is crucial to learn more about nerve damage Erectile Dysfunction.
This article will help you gain an insight into the link between nerve damage and ED with associated symptoms and treatments.
So, let’s delve into the topic and learn more!
The link between nerve damage and Erectile Dysfunction
According to the Sexual Medicine Society of North America, nerve damage can cause disruptions and interfere with the neural pathway.
It may cause a delay in erection and, subsequently, ED.
The cavernous nerves (efferent) are important and initiate the erection with the help of a neurotransmitter (a chemical messenger), Acetylcholine, that releases Nitric Oxide.
Nitric Oxide (NO) increases the flow of blood to the penis and causes an erection.
Damage to the pudendal nerve (afferent) is the main cause of Erectile Dysfunction.
The damage to the pudendal nerve can occur due to injury or surgery in the pelvis.
Moreover, according to a study, 80% of people with this type of surgery can develop ED.
Erectile Dysfunction nerve damage symptoms
People may show additional symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction if nerve damage is the underlying reason for the condition.
In that case, a person may notice the following symptoms due to Autonomic Peripheral Neuropathy:
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Urinary Incontinence
- Change in blood pressure
- Sweating
Symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction include:
- Trouble achieving an erection
- Trouble keeping an erection
- Reduced sexual interest
If the ED is caused due to injuries or surgeries to the pelvic region, a person may notice these symptoms:
- Sexual injury
- Change in the shape of the penis (Peyronie’s disease)
- Burning sensation in the genitals
What causes nerve damage in ED
Here are some of the main causes that can lead to Erectile Dysfunction:
Blood Vessel Disease
Blood Vessel Disease, or Vascular Disease, predominantly includes any disease of arteries and veins.
According to NCBI, ED is a vascular disorder and can be caused due to high blood pressure, Diabetes, and obesity.
Vascular Disease can cause ED by reducing the blood flow to the sexual organ and arterial insufficiency, which reduces arterial blood flow.
Similarly, trauma or injuries to the pelvic region can also cause ED due to arterial insufficiency.
Diabetes
According to NCBI, Diabetes Mellitus can affect the male reproductive system in the four ways, such as:
- Erectile Dysfunction
- Ejaculation (premature or delayed)
- Structural changes in the penis
- Changes in the quality of semen
Testosterone levels are decreased in people with Diabetes Mellitus, which affects the endothelial functions in men.
Also, Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) in diabetic people decreases the release of Nitric Oxide that causes low blood flow to the penis.
This inhibits erection and results in Diabetes Mellitus Erectile Dysfunction (DMED) in males.
Also, high blood sugar levels in the long term can damage the blood vessels and nerves that supply blood to the penis, and you may lose sensation.
Cancer and its treatment (Chemotherapy)
Cancer can cause Depression, stress, and Anxiety that can increase the chances of developing ED.
Similarly, chemotherapy and hormone therapy, surgery, and radiation can also cause sexual adverse effects and may lead to ED.
Parkinson’s disease
Parkinson’s disease is a neurological condition in which the brain’s tendency to release Dopamine is affected.
It can affect libido and sexual function.
The loss of Dopamine results in the changes in Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) and, thus, can cause Erectile Dysfunction.
Treatment for ED caused by nerve damage
After knowing about the underlying causes of nerve damage Erectile Dysfunction, seeking medical treatment is necessary.
According to research, the Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5): Sildenafil, Tadalafil, and Vardenafil are the first-line treatment for nerve damage-induced Erectile Dysfunction.
Furthermore, intracavernous injections of Prostaglandin E1 and vacuum systems are among the treatments for the condition.
Some surgical treatments through penile prosthesis implantation can be used as an alternative treatment measure.
Also, Erectile Dysfunction caused by damage to the pudendal nerve is reversible and can be treated with the efficacy of anesthetic injections.
When to seek medical attention
As you have gained knowledge of the nerve damage Erectile Dysfunction and its underlying causes, it is crucial to visit your doctor if:
- You face symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction, such as difficulty in erection
- You have Diabetes Mellitus
- A trauma or injury in the pelvic region
- You had a surgery
- You are prone to Depression
You can consult your doctor and seek medical treatment to treat the condition and have a successful sexual life.
Conclusion
Peripheral Neuropathy (nerve damage) is a novel risk factor for developing Erectile Dysfunction.
A person may notice a few symptoms, such as trouble achieving and maintaining an erection and losing interest in sexual activity.
The underlying causes that can lead to ED include Vascular Disease, Diabetes Mellitus, cancer, and Parkinson’s disease.
You can consult your doctor on noticing symptoms and facing problems in your sexual life to seek medical treatment.
A doctor may prescribe PDE5, intracarvenous injections, or surgical treatment methods.
It is necessary to take crucial steps in treating and recovering the condition, as delaying the treatment may lead to severe complications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can ED due to nerve damage be cured?
Erectile Dysfunction due to nerve damage can be treated with PDE5 inhibitors: Sildenafil and Tadalafil. Your doctor can also prescribe second-line treatment, such as intracavernous Prostaglandin E1 injections. In some cases, surgical treatment measures can be recommended by your doctor.
Can nerve damage cause ED?
Yes, nerve damage can cause Erectile Dysfunction. Nerve damage is a major risk factor for ED. Damage to nerves, such as the pudendal nerve and cavernous nerve, cause Erectile Dysfunction. You should consult your doctor and seek medical treatment to avoid severe complications.
What nerves cause ED?
Damage to the pudendal nerve can increase the risk of developing Erectile Dysfunction. Also, damage to the cavernous nerve can cause postoperative Erectile Dysfunction due to injury. You should consult your doctor and seek medical treatment, as delaying may cause severe complications.
How do you treat ED from nerve damage?
Erectile Dysfunction from nerve damage can be treated with the efficacy of Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5): Sildenafil and Tadalafil. Some intracavernous injections of Prostaglandin E1 can also be prescribed. In other cases, a doctor may recommend surgical methods for treating Erectile Dysfunction.
What are the symptoms of neurogenic ED?
The symptoms of nerve damage Erectile Dysfunction include constipation, diarrhea, changing blood pressure, and sweating. If ED is caused due to an injury, a person may notice painful sexual intercourse and a burning sensation in the genitals. You should consult your doctor and seek medical treatment.
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