Erectile dysfunction, otherwise known as impotence, is a condition characterized by the inability to attain an erection during sexual intercourse. This leads to unsatisfactory sexual performance and can affect men of all ages. However, the risk starts multiplying as you move closer to the bigger numbers. While one could occasionally face problems with erection, persistent and recurrent occurrences might point toward a pattern of ED that requires intervention. Since the condition is more common than it should be, we will look into its causes and remedies in detail so that one can deal with it in an informed way.
What is the main cause of Erectile Dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction has an interplay of causes and attributing a single one to it seems impossible. However physiological, mental, and lifestyle factors all of which need to be looked at carefully. However, these are the major causes-
Physical factors
Physical factors are always the first considered when any condition occurs. The same is true for Erectile Dysfunction as well. According to sexologists, Poor blood flow to the penis is the primary cause of ED. These conditions start taking resort in our body as we are diagnosed with thick arteries, high blood pressure, and diabetes. The neurological conditions that impact the work of the nervous system like Multiple Sclerosis could prevent you from getting an erection. Men also find themselves in jeopardy when they don’t have enough flow of tesstorne in their bodies which is the male hormone. Lastly, the impact of medication such as the one for blood pressure could trigger ED.
Physiological factors
Mental health issues including stress and anxiety could disturb the calm and peace while having sexual intercourse ultimately impacting your ability to achieve erection. Meanwhile, the problems one faces with their partner should also not be neglected. The absence of rapport could be why you don’t feel comfortable expressing yourself sexually. First-timers have also reported the absence of erection when they grapple with performance anxiety which entails the fear of not satisfying their partners.
Lifestyle factors
Your lifestyle is not a thing to be taken lightly. If you are a chain smoker, things could seem sketchy for you. This is because tobacco could restrict the blood flow to the penis making it difficult to get a full erection. Alcoholics also are prone to developing ED as it can limit their liver function. People who are obese and maintain a sedentary lifestyle can also find it difficult to maintain an erection for longer periods consistently. Subcutaneous fats restrict blood flow into arteries and that is harmful.
Underlying health conditions
Many people develop Erectile dysfunction as a result of the ailment they are dealing with. This is especially true for people with heart, kidney, and liver diseases which control the amount of blood flowing in your body. Additionally, conditions like sleep apnea also contribute to the absence of erection.
How to improve erection?
Improving erectile dysfunction often involves a combination of lifestyle changes, psychological interventions, and in some cases medical treatment. The general tips include-
Maintain a healthy lifestyle
Physical activity can improve the circulatory system in your body. This also goes for cardiac health and overall functioning. Though not long hours, you should aim for 150 minutes of intense exercise regimen with moderate intensity every week. Moreover, you should also be careful about the weight you put on by keeping a check on your body mass index. losing weight could prove to be effective in a lot of ways. Your diet should also be taken care of and inclusive of a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meat, and healthy fats. Studies also suggest eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids and anti-oxidants like turmeric or garlic. It could yield miraculous results by reducing oxidative stress.
Manage stress and anxiety
Managing anxiety and stress could take you a long way. This could be deep breathing exercises or yoga activities. Meditation and mindfulness also could be of great help in such circumstances with the help of a guru or a therapist. You can also entertain a conversation with your partner so that you don’t feel uncomfortable while engaging in the intimate activity.
Limit alcohol and smoking
Since substance abuse can increase the chances of ED. You might want to put a pin on bad habits like smoking or drinking. You could either quit or restrict the quantity and duration of your consumption.
Get quality sleep
Sleep is as important as anything else. After a long day at work or the gym, you might want to rest your eyes for more than 8 hours at least. It is also important to follow bedtime habits to ensure a good night’s sleep. This includes drinking enough water, not eating a heavy dinner, eating minimally, not drinking caffeinated drinks, and having enough hydration before bed.
Medications
You could also try different medications after consulting with a doctor. This could range from Viagra, Cialisis, and Levitra which are commonly prescribed PDE5 inhibitors. Your doctor could help you understand the side effects one might face including hair fall, cardiac disease, sweating, and back pain.
Testosterone Replacement Therapy
One of the causes of Erectile dysfunction is hormone irregularity. If this is identified, doctors recommend getting Testosterone replacement therapy in a controlled setting. However, you should first consider the other ways to make the condition can be treated with minimal intervention in the body.
Conclusion
Erectile dysfunction is a serious disease that could affect you emotionally and physically. This is no reason to lose heart. You should be open to communication with your partner, sexologist, and counselor. In any case, a thorough evaluation must be conducted by a professional, and self-examination should be avoided. Eating medications without proper dosages and opting for quick natural remedies could also be harmful. With modern technologies, there are multiple ways to deal with a problem of that stature and you should opt for the one that works for you best.
References
- Lewis, R.W.; Fugl-Meyer, K.S.; Corona, G.; Hayes, R.D.; Laumann, E.O.; Moreira, E.D.; Rellini, A.H.; Segraves, T. Definitions/epidemiology/risk factors for sexual dysfunction. J. Sex. Med. 2010, 7 Pt 2, 1598–1607. [Google Scholar] [PubMed]
- Shamloul, R.; Ghanem, H. Erectile dysfunction. Lancet 2013, 381, 153–165. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
