Erectile dysfunction also called ED is a very topical and important disorder facing many men of various walks of life today. Impotence was once considered a tabooed topic and many men suffered in misery for many years, but recently there is much more discussion about this emotional topic and now many men are successfully treated.
What is erectile dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction (impotence) occurs when a man can no longer get or keep an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. Having erection trouble from time to time is not necessarily a cause for concern, but if erectile dysfunction is an ongoing problem, it may cause stress, cause relationship problems or affect a man’s self-confidence.
There are many different types of impotence. Psychological impotence is where erection or penetration fails due to thoughts or feelings (psychological reasons) rather than physical impossibility. Psychological erectile dysfunction has the greatest chance of successful treatment, but other forms of impotence can be treated as well.Even though it may seem awkward to talk with your doctor about erectile dysfunction, go in for an evaluation as a number of health conditions can cause erectile dysfunction.
What are the symptoms of erectile dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction symptoms may include persistent:
• Trouble getting an erection
• Trouble keeping an erection
• Reduced sexual desire
Men are encouraged to see their doctor if these symptoms are present over a prolonged period of time.
Erectile Dysfunction and Age
Although erectile dysfunction is more common in men over 75, men of any age can develop erectile problems. It is not unusual for older men to need more stimulation to help get them aroused than they did when they were younger. There is no reason for men to have to accept a lack of sexual function as one of the inevitable consequences of getting older. Many men are able to get erections and enjoy sex well into their senior years!
Erectile Dysfunction and Overall Health
Although ED itself is not necessarily dangerous, ED is often one of the earliest warning signs of other underlying health conditions that can be quite serious. One of the most common underlying health conditions is diabetes mellitus. Erection problems can also be a symptom of heart problems such as hypertension (high blood pressure) or atherosclerosis, as well as hormone imbalances and neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease.That’s why it is essential to see your doctor if you have erectile dysfunction. Not only can a thorough medical examination help you identify the cause of the problem and find a treatment that can return you to a more active sex life – it may also alert you to a bigger health condition that needs immediate treatment. So if you are experiencing erectile problems, it is important to see a qualified physician immediately for a complete physical examination and testing.
Causes of erectile dysfunction
There are many reasons why a man might experience erection problems. Although lack of sexual attraction to one’s partner might be one of them, it’s actually far more likely to be something else. Causes include the following:
• Heart problems such as high blood pressure and atherosclerosis
• Diabetes. Between 35% and 50% of men with diabetes experience ED
• A variety of prescription drugs, including medications for blood pressure, anxiety and depression
• Neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis
• Hormonal imbalances
• Mood or emotional problems such as stress, anxiety and depression
• Lifestyle habits such as smoking and drinking alcohol
• Certain types of prostate and bladder surgery
Talking to your wife or partner
Although erectile dysfunction is more openly discussed in our society, ironically, it is still very difficult for many couples to talk about sex, and especially to talk about erectile dysfunction. For most couples, talking about erection difficulties is the first step toward treating them — and enjoying better sex. Females should encourage the men in their lives to talk more about this disorder. It is important to talk about sexual problems like erectile dysfunction in an open and supportive way. Very often when problems happen in the bedroom, emotions can run high. Men might begin avoiding sex for fear of not getting an erection. Some men may begin to think their wives no longer find them attractive. Feelings get hurt. Couples begin to feel less intimate. Resentment creeps in. Erectile dysfunction is a very emotional topic and many men can become very sensitive about it, but it is important to have an open and frank discussion about this topic if treatment is to be successful.
Treating Erectile Dysfunction
There are many options for treating erectile dysfunction. These include medications taken by mouth, injected directly into the penis, or inserted into the urethra. As erectile dysfunction can also be the result of an underlying health condition, like atherosclerosis or high blood pressure, treating the condition may help alleviate your erection problems, too. If a prescription medication causes ED as a side effect, ask your doctor if you can be switched to another medication. Do not stop taking any medication before talking to your doctor. If pills do not work out for you, keep in mind that prescription medicines aren’t your only option.
You may also be able to make a few lifestyle changes. Quitting smoking, losing weight, or decreasing your alcohol intake, can significantly improve your sexual potency and help your erection problems.
Psychotherapy has also been effective for many men who experience anxiety-related erectile dysfunction associated with sexual performance.
Mechanical vacuum devices and surgical treatments may also be helpful for men with erection problems.
Treating yourself
Many men believe the myth that they can treat themselves – without seeing a doctor – by using herbal remedies and supplements for erectile dysfunction.
You run several risks when trying to take supplements for ED. The exact contents of many of the supplements marketed for ED are not known, and it is possible they could contain dangerous compounds or ingredients that might interact with other medications you may be taking.
In addition, many online sites will not advise you about the potential risks and side effects of taking the remedies they sell. Taking supplements without talking to your doctor means you are not being examined for conditions like diabetes and heart disease that may contribute to ED.
Your best option for successfully treating ED is to consult your doctor who may refer you to a physician who specializes in the care of erectile dysfunction.
Erectile Dysfunction and Lifestyle Changes
One way to deal with erectile dysfunction is to make some simple lifestyle changes. For some men, adopting a healthier lifestyle, such as quitting smoking, exercising regularly, and reducing stress, may be all that is needed to find relief. For those who require more intensive treatment, adopting these lifestyle changes in addition to other treatments can further help.
Quit Smoking
Quitting smoking can be very difficult and there is no single best way to quit that works for all people. Some approaches to try, that might help you kick the habit, include:
• Pick a quit date one to three weeks in the future. Prepare for the date by cutting down on smoking, staying away from your favourite places to smoke, and making a plan for how you will deal with stressful events without smoking.
• On your quit date, get rid of all cigarettes, keep busy, and stay in smoke-free places.
• Talk to your doctor to see if you should try nicotine replacement therapy, or if a non-nicotine prescription treatment is right for you.
• Make a clean break. Do not allow yourself to smoke “now and then.” An addiction to nicotine can be reactivated anytime, even years after quitting.
• Take it one moment, one hour, and one day at time. Cravings to smoke are usually short-lived and will go away whether or not you have a cigarette.
• Get help with quitting if you need it. Your doctor can point you in the right direction.
Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise can improve your health in many ways. Along with improving erectile function, exercise can:
• Strengthen the heart.
• Build energy levels.
• Lower blood pressure.
• Improve muscle tone and strength.
• Strengthen and build bones.
• Help reduce body fat.
• Help reduce stress, tension, anxiety, and depression.
• Boost self-image and self-esteem.
• Improve sleep.
• Make you feel more relaxed and rested.
• Make you look fit and healthy.
To get the most benefit, you should exercise at least 20 to 30 minutes, preferably on most days of the week. If you are a beginner, exercise for a few minutes each day and build up to 30 minutes. Discuss starting an exercise program with your doctor.
Reduce Stress
Stress is common to everyone. Our bodies are designed to feel stress – and react to it. It keeps us alert and ready to avoid danger. It is not always possible to avoid or change events that may cause stress and it is easy to feel trapped and unable to cope. When stress persists, it can affect the body and illnesses can occur. The key to coping with stress is to identify stressors in your life and learn ways to direct and reduce stress.
Learning an effective means of relaxation and using it regularly is a good first step. Allow yourself some “quiet time,” even if it’s just a few minutes. Examine and modify your thinking, particularly unrealistic expectations. Talking problems out with a friend or family member can help put things in proper perspective. Seeking professional assistance can help you gain a new perspective on how to manage some of the more difficult forms of stress. Other approaches to reducing stress include, getting enough rest and sleep, and do not rely on alcohol or drugs.
Conclusion
Erectile dysfunction affects some men inAnguillaespecially those over the age of sixty years, but it can occur at earlier ages. Men with erectile dysfunction should see their doctor for an evaluation prior to starting treatment. Treatment is important to prevent complications that can include an unsatisfactory sex life, stress and anxiety, embarrassment or low self-esteem and, more importantly, marital or relationship problems. Wives are encouraged to encourage their husbands to have an open and frank discussion about this disorder and to seek professional help.
Ask Your Doctor is a health education column and is not a substitute for medical advice from your physician. Dr Brett Hodge is an Obstetrician/Gynaecologist and Family Doctor who has over twenty eight years in clinical practice. Dr Hodge has a medical practice in theJohnsonBuildingin The Valley.
