Erectile dysfunction, often simply referred to as ED, affects millions of men across the world. It is the most common intimacy-related issue that men report suffering from. The definition of ED is experiencing concerns getting or maintaining an erection that makes it possible to engage in intercourse. While it’s certainly not unusual for men to occasionally have issues, experiencing ED that occurs routinely or is progressive, is not a normal situation. It should and can be treated.
What can contribute to ED
Determining the underlying cause of your ED can help to address the issue and also have the added benefit of improving your overall well-being. The following are some of the concerns that could be leading to your ED.
- High levels of stress
- Emotional stress
- Depression and anxiety
- Being older than 50
- Damage to the nerves in the penis
- High blood pressure
- High blood sugar as is the case with diabetes
- Smoking, as smoking can constrict the blood vessels
- High cholesterol
- Obesity and a lack of physical exercise
A full physical examination and bloodwork may be necessary in order to fully determine what is responsible for your ED. It’s important to note that erectile dysfunction can be an early warning sign of cardiovascular disease, as it may be an indicator that blockages are present in the vascular system. Some studies have indicated that men who have ED are at a much higher risk of a heart attack or stroke.
ED can happen to any man, at any age
According to the experts at https://www.calibreclinic.com.au/, and in contrast to what many advertisements would try to tell you, ED can happen at any time, and to men of any age. It is more often seen in men who are 50 and older, particularly if there are high levels of stress or other underlying health concerns. It can, however, also impact men in their 30s and 40s.
The important thing to keep in mind is that addressing ED is the best way to handle it, versus ignoring it and hoping that the problem will simply go away. ED can contribute to anxiety, depression and other mental health concerns. It can also start to have an impact on your personal relationships, and may even start to impact your ability to do your job.
The diagnosis and treatment
Determining the underlying cause of your ED will help to focus the direction of your treatment options. Answer the questions your doctor asks, truthfully. Now is not the time to feel uncomfortable about discussing erectile dysfunction and your overall health.
The treatment can often begin by ensuring that you are taking care of both your heart and also your vascular health. This could include dietary adjustments and simply getting more exercise each day. You may be asked to stop smoking, using drugs and alcohol and even enter into a therapy program to help with the emotional stressors that you may be struggling with.
Non-invasive treatments are generally the first approach for treating ED. There are a number of medications that have a reputation for success, along with testosterone therapy. These drugs work by helping to boost the blood flow to your penis, which can then result in achieving and maintaining an erection when stimulated. These drugs do vary in dosage and may come with a number of side effects that you should be aware of prior to taking them. Typically, men experience headache, upset stomach, and a flushed face. Side effects will pass within a few hours and should not affect the way that you are able to perform.
Another treatment solution is Platelet Rich Plasma, or PRP. This is a natural skin rejuvenation therapy that allows the body to heal itself, with the activation of stem cells. Patients have also found success with Low Intensity Shock Wave Therapy, which has been shown to boost the health of blood vessels.
There are also injectable medications and surgical implants that have also helped men to overcome ED. Only after a thorough examination will your doctor be able to determine the best treatment course to help you overcome ED.
It’s natural to feel a level of discomfort discussing erectile dysfunction with a medical professional. However, keep in mind that doctors and office staff who work in this field will have the compassion and understanding, along with the discretion that will immediately put you at ease.