Erectile dysfunction (ED) may not usually be a dinner table topic, yet it is a reality for millions of men around the world. The good news is that it is fixable – and it is often fixable, but not always in ways that you might expect. Whether by taking an immediate approach with a drug or by investigating a longer-term strategy through lifestyle changes, there is more than one way back to feeling confident about your sex life. So, if you have been worrying about it silently, this may be your chance to explore your state of affairs.
Why does ED happen?
Before we discuss treatment, and while ED can indeed be associated with age, we should clarify that it is not age-specific. Yes, older men suffer from it more, but younger men will have their share of incidents of ED too. What are the causes? Sometimes it’s confirmed, other times only suspected. They can be categorized as either physical or some type of emotional (and some can be both). Physical causes of ED are heart disease, diabetes, obesity, etc. Some emotional causes could be stress, anxiety, relationship issues, etc.
The Role of Medications
When most people think of potential therapies for ED, pills often come to mind first. Medications such as sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), and vardenafil are intended to direct blood to the penis, which supports the ability to obtain/maintain an erection, and to maintain it. Many men enjoy success with the pills, where it is safe; but always check with your prescribed doctor.
Things You Can Change That Will Make a Difference
This is the part where many individuals do not realize how their daily choices can have such an effect. Just changing to a healthy diet, increasing exercise, or quitting smoking by itself could all greatly enhance your sexual health. Exercise improves blood circulation, and a healthy diet is a factor in keeping your heart healthy – both are important factors in getting harder erections.
Therapy for the Relationship Between Mind and Body
For men whose ED is a psychological phenomenon, learning skills in therapy could be a game-changer. You can deal with the psychological aspect of ED by going for therapy or counseling, which is often more effective than medication.
When You Should See Your Doctor?
If you are experiencing ED and it is affecting your self-esteem, your relationships or your quality of life, don’t just wait and see. Go to your doctor, or check out resources at www.medypharmacy.com for more information. Actively seeking help and talking about it may help you avoid things getting worse and get you to a place where you can identify potential effective treatments for your situation sooner rather than later.
The Take-Away
ED does not have to mean the end of your sex life. With a variety of options (or a combination of options available) to choose from (medication, lifestyle changes, and/or therapy), most men can find something that works. The most important thing you can do is to talk about it and seek help instead of suffering alone.
FAQs
1. Is there a possibility that ED may be alleviated through lifestyle changes?
Yes, if a man can manage their stress, eat better and exercise more, he can work perfectly fine without medication.
2. Are all men safe to take ED medications?
No, they should not be used by men who have certain heart conditions or who are taking certain nitrate medications. Consult a doctor first.
3. How quickly do ED drugs work?
It varies, but most drugs will work within 30-60 minutes. The effect can range from a few hours to well over a day, depending on the medication.
4. Can stress cause ED?
Absolutely. Stress can affect hormone levels and blood flow, which are important for sexual interest and arousal, performance.
5. How do you choose the right ED treatment?
Treatment of ED depends on the etiology, performance status, and patient comfort; the treatment should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
