The National Multiple Sclerosis Society estimates that multiple sclerosis (MS) and erectile dysfunction (ED) affect over 400,000 people in the United States alone. Furthermore, they estimate that 91% of men with MS report having symptoms of either ED or impotence.
Erectile dysfunction is the inability to achieve and maintain erections sufficient for sexual intercourse. ED will affect 1 in 3 men worldwide at some point of their lives.
Although erectile dysfunction is unusual among older males, the onset of multiple sclerosis’ warning signs often affect men over 20 to 40 years.
Multiple sclerosis is a chronic debilitating disease of the central nervous system. MS works by invading the body’s immune response resulting to extensive damage to the myelin sheath of the nerve cells.
The destruction of nerve cells will later form scar tissues or sclerosis. The formation of sclerosis affects the ability of the central nervous system to function effectively. Thus, the severity and course of the disease varies in every case.
Understanding Multiple Sclerosis and Erectile dysfunction
Sexual dysfunction is common in men with multiple sclerosis. Experts support how multiple sclerosis and impotence affect men’s sexual function. Both MS and ED can cause serious symptoms affecting men’s ability to sustain erections.
Nerve damage as a result of MS often leads to poor erection reflex. Hence, a soft, unnoticeable erection takes place. Multiple sclerosis and ED can also lead to poor sex drive and decreasing sexual stimulation.
Furthermore, MS and ED can also lead to problems with retrograde ejaculation and impotence. Retrograde ejaculation refers to the false entry of semen into the bladder during orgasm. On the other hand, impotence is a condition often results to inability to achieve orgasm.
MS and Erectile Dysfunction Treatments
Some medications for multiple sclerosis have potential threat to sexual function. There are available treatment options for MS and ED in the market. However, men undergoing MS and erectile dysfunction treatments require conclusive supervision from an expert.
Health conditions can manifest themselves in several ways in the body. Therefore, men with multiple sclerosis and ED should undergo medical screening and substantial treatment.
