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Etiology:
Based on studies, we can safely say that only 5% of male impotency
is primary, i.e. where a man has never been able to sustain
an erection. Most such causes can be attributed to psychological
factors such as guilt, sexual trauma, severe anxiety, depression,
intimacy issues, etc.
Secondary factors, which constitute 90% of male impotency causes
where a man who has had normal sexual functions no longer can,
attain or sustain an erection. The secondary factors are almost
always organic in nature and the majority of these cases have
a vascular cause. Other causes include
- Hormonal imbalance
- Neurological disorder
- After effects of medications
- Psychological factors accompanying organic disorders. |
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Vascular
Factors
Atherosclerotic disease of the penile arteries reduces the amount of blood
entering the penis and venous leakage makes it difficult for the blood
to remain in the penis during erection. Most males suffering from Diabetes,
Hypertension and being addicted to smoking are prone to be associated
with Atherosclerosis (reduced blood flow to penis) and thus subject to
male impotency.
Hormonal Factors
Decreased libido is certainly caused by low serum level of free testosterone.
Impotency can be caused by hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, elevated prolactin
or elevated cortisol.
Neurological Factors
Though rare, stroke, multiple sclerosis, autonomic dysfunction, spinal
cord injuries, certain forms of seizure disorders, and previous prostate
surgery also may lead to male impotency.
Effects of Medication
Prescription drugs cause a substantial and alarmingly large percentage
of male impotency. These include blood pressure medications, beta-blockers,
diuretics, antidepressants, chemotherapies, sedatives, heart medications,
and so many others.
Diagnosis
Approach a qualified and experienced Ayurvedic Doctor! Diagnosis will
include inquiries about medications taken / being taken, atherosclerosis,
hypertension, smoking, diabetes, heart disease, circulatory conditions,
and psychological issues. A detailed examination is mandatory including
examination of the genitalia, pulses, dhatus, srotas, and assessment of
ojas and agni. Certain lab tests will be necessitated.
In Ayurveda, male impotency is referred to as 'Dhatukshaya' or
erosion of tissues. Hence a number of seemingly unrelated secondary conditions
may appear: forgetfulness, memory loss, dull intellect, insecurity, loss
of confidence, indecisiveness, irrational fears, edema, burning sensations
in parts of the body, muscle flaccidity, inability to gain or retain muscle
mass, craving for sweets, reduced immune function, sallow complexion.
Strikingly, male impotence occurs simultaneously with one or more of the
above signs or symptoms, as the reproductive tissues (Shukra Dhatu) are
intimately co-joined with other bodily tissues, which form it.
Treatment:
Based on the detailed diagnosis an individual specific treatment schedule
is chalked out to include the following: -
Cleansing, Purification and Detoxification A schedule of Panchakarma therapies
to dislodge, liquefy, mobilize and evacuate the accumulated Dhoshas, with
an aim to cleanse and purify the countless body channels is carried out.
Abhyangam (oil application on entire body), Kizhi (fomentation of body),
Avagaha Swedanam(medicated spinal bath) etc are carried out. The residues
and toxins accumulated by the body over a period of time and most importantly
by anti hypertensive, antacid, diabetic and some brain sedative medicines
are evacuated by Panchakarma. This forms an essential pre requisite to
the treatment.
Strengthening of the Vascular and Endocrine System Elakizhi (body
fomentation using herbal boluses), localized Dhara (pouring of medicated
oil in a steady stream) and Lepanam (application of herbal paste) are
applied to increase and smoothen the blood flow in the arteries and also
helps to repair any damages.
Strengthening the Neuro Muscular System and relieve stress Pizhichil
(pouring of warm medicated oil on the entire body) and Sirodhara (pouring
of warm medicated oil/liquids on the forehead) helps to regulate the Neuro
muscular system. Sirodhara particularly helps to relieve stress and calms
down the mind.
Internal Medication Specially prepared Ayurvedic medicines are
given to be taken internally which improves and rejuvenates the Vascular
and Neuro muscular activity and also to stabilize the male hormones (testosterone).
This is the most important phase of Shamana Chikilsa (Curative treatment).
External application of Medicated oils :The application of these
oil preparations improves the circulation to the penis which helps to
attain and sustain an erection to satisfactory levels.
Conclusion:
Ayurveda, is a healing system which promotes health using natural, non
toxic substances and which recognizes the important role of the mind and
emotion. The treatment done in an Ayurvedically suited environment, coupled
with therapeutic Yoga and meditation promises excellent remedies.
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