What is Erectile Dysfunction?

Erectile Dysfunction, also referred to as ED, is the ongoing difficulty in getting or keeping an erection firm enough for sex. While it’s normal to occasionally have trouble with erections, especially during times of stress or fatigue, ED becomes a concern when it happens frequently or affects your confidence and relationships.

ED can be caused by physical issues like poor blood flow, nerve damage, or low testosterone, as well as mental health factors such as stress, anxiety, or depression. It’s more common than many people think and can affect men of all ages, not just older adults. The good news is that ED is treatable, and identifying the cause is the first step toward finding the right solution.

Types of Erectile Dysfunction

Vascular ED

This is the most common type of erectile dysfunction. It happens when there’s a problem with blood flow to the penis or with the valves that help keep blood in the penis during an erection.

Neurogenic ED

This type is caused by nerve problems that stop signals from the brain from reaching the penis. It can happen after injuries, certain surgeries or treatments like radiation, or due to conditions like stroke, spinal issues, or multiple sclerosis (MS).

Hormonal ED

This happens when hormone levels, especially testosterone, are too low. Sometimes, thyroid problems can also cause this type of ED.

Psychogenic ED

This type is related to mental health. Stress, anxiety, or depression can interfere with your ability to get or keep an erection.

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Causes of Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) can be caused by a mix of physical and psychological factors that affect blood flow, nerve function, hormones, and mental well-being. Here are some common causes:

Physical Causes

  1. Heart Disease and Clogged Blood Vessels (Atherosclerosis): These conditions reduce blood flow throughout the body—including to the penis—making it harder to achieve or maintain an erection.
  2. High Cholesterol and High Blood Pressure: Both can damage blood vessels and affect circulation, which is essential for healthy erectile function.
  3. Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can damage nerves and blood vessels involved in the erection process.
  4. Obesity: Excess weight can impact hormone levels, blood flow, and increase the risk of other ED-related conditions like diabetes and heart disease.
  5. Low Testosterone Levels: Testosterone plays a key role in sexual desire and performance; low levels can reduce libido and erectile strength. 
  6. Alcohol and Tobacco Use: These substances interfere with blood circulation and nerve function, both critical for erections. 
  7. Age: As men age, testosterone levels decline, blood vessels become less flexible, and nerve sensitivity may decrease, making it harder to get or maintain an erection. In fact, ED becomes significantly more common with age: it affects about 5% of men aged 20–40, 52% of men aged 40–70, and 70% of men over 70.

Psychological Causes

  1. Depression, Anxiety, or Other Mental Health Conditions: These can lower sexual desire and interfere with the brain’s ability to send the signals that trigger an erection. 
  2. Stress: Chronic stress can disrupt hormone levels and focus, making it harder to relax and respond to sexual stimulation.
  3. Relationship Issues: Tension, lack of communication, or emotional disconnect with a partner can lead to performance anxiety or reduced desire, affecting sexual function.

Understanding the root cause of ED is the first step toward finding the right treatment and improving both physical and emotional health.

Common Treatment Options for ED

Over-the-Counter & Supplements

Herbal supplements and DHEA are available, but results vary, and safety isn’t always guaranteed.

Prescription Medications

  • PDE5 Inhibitors (like Viagra, Cialis, Levitra, and Stendra) help increase blood flow to the penis.
  • Testosterone Therapy (TRT) may be used if low testosterone is a factor.
  • Injections or Suppositories can help create an erection when pills aren’t effective.

Devices

  • Shockwave Therapy (LI-ESWT): Uses sound waves to help improve blood flow.
  • Vacuum Devices (VEDs): Use suction to pull blood into the penis, with a band to keep the erection.

Surgical Options

  • Penile Implants:
    • Inflatable: A pump in the scrotum fills the implant with fluid to create an erection.
    • Malleable: Bendable rods placed in the penis that can be positioned manually.
  • Vascular Surgery:
    • Arterial Bypass: Reroutes blood around blocked vessels (rarely used).
    • Venous Ligation: Closes off veins that leak blood during an erection.
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A New Approach to ED: The Power of ApexRF

While traditional treatments like medications, devices, and surgery focus on managing symptoms, ApexRF uses gentle radiofrequency (RF) and EMS energy to improve the structure and function of the penis over time. Here’s how it works:

  • Stimulates Collagen Production: Helps rebuild and strengthen the collagen fibers in the penis, improving tissue structure.
  • Remodels Erectile Tissue: Targets the corpora cavernosa and tunica albuginea—the key areas involved in erections—to support better function.
  • Boosts Blood Flow: Encourages the growth of new blood vessels, which improves circulation to support healthy erectile function.
  • Supports Erection Mechanisms: Triggers the release of natural factors in the body that aid in getting and maintaining erections.

By enhancing tissue structure and increasing blood flow, ApexRF helps support stronger, more reliable erections and lasting improvements in sexual performance.

What to Expect with Apex Treatment

ApexRF Device

Apex offers a gentle, soothing treatment experience designed to target delicate areas with precision and care, perfect for those seeking a non-invasive way to restore circulation and tissue, without downtime or medication.

  • Targeted Precision: The uniquely designed applicator tip allows for precise treatments in sensitive zones, ensuring comfort and effectiveness.
  • Safe and Comfortable: Apex uses real-time temperature monitoring to maintain safe and consistent heat levels, never exceeding 43°C, so you get optimal results without discomfort.
  • Smart Technology: With intelligent sensors and depth control, Apex continuously monitors your skin to protect the surface while treating deeper tissue layers.
  • Compact and Effective: Its small size helps reach hard-to-treat areas while delivering uniform energy for consistent outcomes.
  • Non-Drug Alternative: This procedure offers a highly effective, medication-free option for improving tissue health and appearance.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Apex Device is a revolutionary treatment utilizing radiofrequency (RF) energy to enhance erectile function by improving collagen structure and increasing penile blood flow.

The Apex Device delivers controlled thermal energy to penile tissues, specifically targeting collagen fibers in the corpora cavernosa and tunica albuginea. This process helps restore and reorganize collagen structures, which are essential for maintaining strong and sustained erections.

  • Improves erectile function by remodeling collagen and increasing penile blood flow.
  • Non-invasive and painless procedure.
  • Quick treatment sessions (approximately 15 minutes each).
  • Long-lasting effects with sustained improvements in erectile function.
  • Alternative to medications, injections, or surgical interventions.

Men experiencing mild to moderate erectile dysfunction (ED), particularly those who have not responded well to oral medications like Viagra or Cialis.

Each session lasts around 15 minutes. The device delivers RF energy while monitoring temperature and impedance to ensure safe and effective treatment. A series of six treatments is typically recommended for optimal results.

No, the treatment is non-invasive and generally well tolerated, with minimal to no discomfort. Patients report feeling no pain during or after treatment.

Many patients experience noticeable improvements in erectile function within a few weeks after starting treatments, with further enhancements continuing up to three months post-treatment as collagen and fibers repair and stimulate.

Clinical studies show that men who underwent six Apex treatments experienced a significant improvement in erectile function scores, with long-term benefits lasting at least six months.

  • Oral Medications: Apex provides a natural and lasting improvement, whereas medications offer temporary relief.
  • Shockwave Therapy: Unlike shockwave therapy, which mainly improves blood flow, Apex actively restores and strengthens collagen fibers, addressing the structural cause of ED.
  • Injections & Surgery: Apex is a non-invasive alternative without the risks or side effects associated with these options.

There is no downtime, and side effects are minimal. Patients can resume normal activities immediately after treatment.


Ready to take the next step?

If you’re interested in learning more or improving your sexual wellness with ApexRF, schedule a consultation with our expert providers at Integrated Aesthetics. We are here to guide you through every step of your journey, ensuring you feel empowered and informed. Schedule your consultation using the form below or call us at (281) 404-5454 to book at The Woodlands office or the Spring office.

References

https://courses.lumenlearning.com/suny-ap2/chapter/anatomy-and-physiology-of-the-male-reproductive-system/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK562253/

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/erectile-dysfunction/symptoms-causes/syc-20355776#:~:text=Physical%20issues%20like%20heart%20disease,also%20interfere%20with%20sexual%20feelings.

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