Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common issue affecting many men, particularly as we age. For those who experience ED, it can feel overwhelming or even embarrassing. As parents, there’s often not a lot of spare time to be intimate with your partner, and so it can be frustrating too.
But the truth is, ED is a medical condition that can affect any man, and it’s important to understand its causes, symptoms and treatment options to manage it effectively. In the latest article produced in association with Hims, the online male health specialist trusted by hundreds of thousands guys we look into this topic.
Here’s the lowdown.
What is Erectile Dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction occurs when a man has difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection firm enough to have sex. This will happen to a lot of us occasionally, which is not unusual, especially during times of stress or exhaustion. However, when the issue becomes frequent or persistent, it may indicate ED, which can affect your self-esteem and relationship if you don’t seek out treatment.
Causes of Erectile Dysfunction
ED can be caused by a range of physical, psychological and lifestyle factors. Understanding the root cause is essential to finding the right treatment.
Physical Causes:
- Cardiovascular Issues: Conditions like high blood pressure, atherosclerosis (narrowing of the arteries) and heart disease can affect blood flow to the penis, making it difficult to achieve an erection.
- Diabetes: Men with diabetes often experience nerve and blood vessel damage, which can impair the ability to maintain an erection.
- Hormonal Imbalances: Low testosterone levels can contribute to a lack of sexual desire and ED.
- Obesity: Being overweight is linked to ED, as it can lead to high cholesterol, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
- Medications: Certain medications, including those for high blood pressure, depression, and anxiety, can cause ED as a side effect.
Psychological Causes:
- Stress and Anxiety: Mental health issues such as anxiety, stress and depression can significantly impact sexual performance.
- Relationship Problems: Conflicts or lack of communication in a relationship can contribute to ED.
- Performance Anxiety: Worrying about sexual performance can create a cycle of anxiety that makes ED more likely.
Lifestyle Factors:
- Smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and restricts blood flow, increasing the risk of ED.
- Alcohol and Substance Use: Excessive drinking and recreational drug use can lead to ED over time.
- Lack of Physical Activity: A sedentary lifestyle can contribute to conditions like obesity, which in turn increase the risk of ED.
Symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction
The primary symptom of ED is the inability to achieve or maintain an erection, there are other factors at play too. They include:
- Reduced sexual desire
- Trouble maintaining an erection even after achieving one
- Anxiety about sexual performance
It’s important to recognise that occasional problems with erections are normal. However, if these issues are persistent and affect your quality of life, it may be time to seek help.
Treatment Options for Erectile Dysfunction
The good news is that ED is treatable, and there are several effective options available, depending on the cause.
Lifestyle Changes
- Exercise: Regular physical activity can improve heart health and blood flow, which can help reduce ED symptoms.
- Healthy Diet: A balanced diet can lower the risk of obesity, diabetes and heart disease, all of which are linked to ED.
- Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol: Cutting out smoking and reducing alcohol intake can significantly improve your sexual function.
Medications
- Oral Medications: Drugs like Viagra (sildenafil) and Cialis (tadalafil) are available through Hims and work by increasing blood flow to the penis, making it easier to achieve an erection. By visiting the Hims website, you can find a solution that works for your particular case. These include brand name and generic Viagra and Cialis as well as their Hard Mints.
- Hormone Therapy: If low testosterone is the cause, hormone replacement therapy may work.
- Other Medications: In some cases, injectable or suppository treatments can be used to achieve an erection.
Counselling
For men whose ED has psychological roots, therapy or counselling can be highly effective. Speaking with a mental health professional can help address stress, anxiety or relationship issues that may be contributing to ED.
Surgical Options
In more severe cases, surgical treatments such as penile implants or vascular surgery may be recommended.
Erectile Dysfunction Help
The thing to remember is that erectile dysfunction is a common issue that can affect men of all ages, but it’s not something you have to live with. Understanding the causes and symptoms is the first step towards finding the right treatment. And there are a range of treatments out there. Check out our friends at Hims to find out more about their 100% online process which provides access to doctor-approved ED treatments quickly and discreetly.*
*Hard Mints is a chewable compounded product and has not been approved by the FDA. The FDA does not verify the safety or effectiveness of compounded drugs. Prescription products require an online consultation with a healthcare provider who will determine if a prescription is appropriate. Restrictions apply. See website for full details and important safety information..
