Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

Disclaimer: Not medical or professional advice. Always seek the advice of your physician.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a persistent (more than 3 months) inability to achieve or maintain a penile erection.

According to WHO, ED can Affect Men of all Ages

  • 1 in every 10 men aged 21-29.
  • 1 in 5 men between the ages of 30 and 39.
  • Almost half of all men between the ages of 40 and 70.

 
Some men believe that erection problems can be solved only by improving their emotional state. However, it is not that simple. Every sexual failure causes self-esteem problems. These factors lead to increased anxiety and reduced sexual desire.

Erectile dysfunction can be a forewarning symptom of cardiovascular disease. Thus, it should be treated not only to improve quality of life but prevent serious health problems.

What is Erectile Dysfunction?

Symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction in Men

  • Decreased or absent early morning erection
  • Partial or weak erection.
  • Continuous stimulation is needed to get an erection.
  • Failure to achieve an erection when sexually aroused.
  • Gradual or sudden loss of erection during intercourse.
  • Premature ejaculation.
  • Increased time between intercourse.
  • Inability to have several rounds of intercourse during the day.

If symptoms persist for more than three months, you should see a doctor.

Causes of Erectile Dysfunction

ED can be caused by one of the following factors or by several of them.

  • Diseases. Especially diabetes, hormonal disorders, or heart disease.
  • Smoking. Toxic chemicals in cigarettes restrict blood flow to veins and arteries, leading to ED.
  • Obesity.
  • Medications, including antidepressants, antihistamines, and medicines to treat high blood pressure.
  • Psychological conditions: stress, anxiety, or depression.
  • Drug and alcohol use.
  • Sedentary lifestyle, office work.
  • Unbalanced diet.
  • Sleep disorders, insomnia.
  • Age (over 40). 

Relationship Between Weak Erections and Testosterone 

Men with erectile dysfunctions often ask for testosterone treatment. Indeed, low levels of testosterone and the development of erectile dysfunction can occur at the same time. This does not mean, however, that they influence each other.

Testosterone is a male sex hormone. But its effect on the erectile function is not fully understood. Research shows that many men who have age-related declines in testosterone levels do not experience erection problems. Therefore, doctors do not prescribe testosterone therapy if a patient has no signs or symptoms of low testosterone. In such cases, it is required to consider other causes of ED.

Prevention of Erectile Dysfunction

  • Eat a healthy diet. Choose food rich in protein, trace elements (especially zinc, phosphorus), vitamins.
  • Play sports: running, swimming, tennis. Regular exercise can help reduce stress and fatigue, restore blood circulation, and increase energy levels.
  • Maintain a work-rest balance. Do not allow physical, mental, and psycho-emotional overload.
  • Make time for your annual physical exam.

Do not hesitate to contact your doctor if you have concerns about your erections. A neglected health problem not only limits your physical ability to engage in your sex life but also has a significant impact on your mental health. The sooner the doctor determines a diagnosis, the sooner you treat ED. Timely treatment can completely restore erectile function in 90% of cases. However, estimates suggest that only 2 out of 10 men seek medical attention.