Erectile dysfunction is generally a common condition amongst men aged 40 and above. Erectile dysfunction is when a male cannot get and keep an erection firm enough to engage in sex.
It’s essential to be aware that not having an erection once in a while is not a sign of concern. However, if it is a consistent occurrence, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible.
The erectile dysfunction condition can affect your mood, self-esteem, confidence and add to other problems in your life. In many cases, not having and keeping an erection could be signed to other health conditions, including heart disease. We encourage you to consult your doctor if you are experiencing difficulties getting an erection.
Symptoms of ED (Erectile Dysfunction)
There are three common symptoms for ED; let’s break these down below:
- Trouble getting an erection.
- Difficulty having and maintaining an erection during sex
- Loss of interest in sex
Causes of Erectile Dysfunction
According to MayoClinic, sexual arousal in men is a complex process that includes the:
- Brain
- Hormones
- Emotions
- Nerves
- Muscles and blood vessels
The condition can occur when there is a problem with any above. In addition, if you are experiencing stress and mental health conditions, this may also have implications for erectile dysfunction.
See MayoClinics list of physical and psychological causes for ED:
Physical
- Heart disease
- Clogged blood vessels (atherosclerosis)
- High cholesterol
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Metabolic syndrome — a condition involving increased blood pressure, high insulin levels, body fat around the waist and high cholesterol
- Parkinson’s disease
- Multiple sclerosis
- Certain prescription medications
- Tobacco use
- Peyronie’s disease — development of scar tissue inside the penis
- Alcoholism and other forms of substance abuse
- Sleep disorders
- Treatments for prostate cancer or enlarged prostate
- Surgeries or injuries that affect the pelvic area or spinal cord
- Low testosterone
Psychological
- Depression, anxiety or other mental health conditions
- Stress
- Relationship problems due to stress, poor communication or other concerns
Vaping & Erectile Dysfunction
A study conducted in recent news implicated the severity of vaping and affects sexual performance. The study shows that males who use vapes are more than twice as likely to experience the condition than males who do not.
Vapes are introduced today as a “healthier way to smoke”. Men who currently vape need to limit their amount; whilst trying to be healthy in one way, they’re bringing new risks in another way. In summary, yes, vapes are healthier than cigarettes, but this does not make it “risk-free”.
Things you can do to prevent ED
Living a healthier lifestyle is the key to recovering from erectile dysfunction. If you are experiencing existing health conditions such as diabetes, stress, anxiety and more, you should seek help to manage those.
Here are some things you can do to prevent erectile dysfunction:
- Stop Smoking
- Stressless
- Seek help for anxiety, stress, depression
- Limit or avoid alcohol
Another tip is to practice mindfulness and inner belief. Stimulating your mind for a more excellent version of yourself allows you to boost your mental confidence, ultimately enhancing your performance.
Foods to help prevent ED
- Watermelon
- Blackberries
- Pistachio
- Spinach
- Avocado
See full list of foods you can eat to prevent erectile dysfunction
Treatments for ED
Oral ED Treatments
Oral treatments are a common type of treatment to overcome erectile dysfunction conditions. These treatments need to be prescribed by your doctor, and they will also base these pills on your general health. See the list of treatments below:
- Viagra
- Levitra
- Cialis
- Stendra
Erectile Dysfunction Vacuum Device
A vacuum device moves blood into the penis. The device is split into three sections.
- A tube that goes around your penis
- Pump itself
- An elastic ring you move from the end of the tube to the base of your penis when you take it off.
Erectile Dysfunction FAQs
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eD Treatments
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