It can be very hard to tell what erectile dysfunction is because it covers a broad range of disorders. The most widely used definition is that erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability of a man to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for his sexual needs or the needs of his partner. Most men experience this at some point in their lives, usually by the age of 40, and are not psychologically affected by it.

Some men, however, experience chronic, complete erectile dysfunction (impotence), and others, partial or brief erections. Frequent erectile dysfunction can cause emotional and relationship problems, and often leads to diminished self-esteem. Erectile dysfunction has many causes, most of which are treatable, and is not an inevitable.

According to the National Institutes of Health in 2002, an estimated 15 million to 30 million men in the United States experience chronic erectile dysfunction. According to the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (NAMCS), approximately 22 out of every 1000 men in the United States sought medical attention for ED in 1999.

Incidence of the disorder increases with age. Chronic ED affects about 5% of men in their 40s and 15-25% of men by the age of 65. Transient erectile dysfunction and inadequate erection affect as many as 50% of men between the ages of 40 and 70. Diseases (e.g., diabetes, kidney disease, alcoholism, and atherosclerosis) account for as many as 70% of chronic erectile dysfunction cases and psychological factors (e.g., stress, anxiety, and depression) may account for 10-20% of cases. Between 35 and 50% of men with diabetes experience ED.

Premature ejaculation is often talked about when we discuss about erectile dysfunction. Premature ejaculation is a condition in which the entire process of arousal, erection, ejaculation, and climax occur very rapidly, often in just a few minutes or even seconds, leaving the partner unsatisfied. Premature ejaculation may accompany an erection problem such as impotence but is generally treated differently.

Although this information focuses primarily on male ED, remember that the partner plays an integral role. If successful and effective management is to occur, any discussion of the potential treatment should include both partners. Sexual health is important for all of us so in case you were wondering if the best solution for you would be to try out all the free non-prescription erectile dysfunction medication available on the Internet or TV infomercials, then the answer is "No".

There is not enough talk about non-prescription drugs scams and scammers. People all over the world lose hundreds of million of dollars a year just because a persuasive sales copy and a professional looking web site or brochure convince them to "try, absolutely risk free, money back guaranteed a year after purchase, the most amazing product that can make your penis longer, harder, fuller and will have your partner begging you for more!" Blah, blah, blah!

For your sake, don't give out your credit card number to anyone if you don't intend to make a purchase. Keep in mind that these marketers don't just sell you one bottle. They will keep taking money from your account and will send you a lot of stuff you've never ordered or agreed with.

If you do need to spend some money, then why don't you try to find support groups on the internet or maybe try therapy with your partner? No need to thank me right now for saving you a couple of thousands of dollars! Enjoy!

To learn more about erectile dysfunction and its cures and causes, visit Learning About Erectile Dysfunction