Aerobic Exercise for Erectile Dysfunction: Study Findings, Benefits and Comparison With Viagra
- According to a new meta-study, aerobic exercise is nearly as effective as medications in treating erectile dysfunction (ED). It is also considered to be a safer and more cost-effective treatment option.
- Men with the most severe erectile dysfunction showed the most improvement in their sexual performance following the study.
- Exercise that supports cardiovascular health can be beneficial in treating erectile dysfunction. This includes walking, jogging, cycling, swimming, and other forms of aerobic exercise.
- Combining the results of multiple previous studies and examining them makes this analysis reliable.
A recent study revealed that physical activity can be just as effective as certain medications for men who have erectile dysfunction. The researchers noted that exercise had other positive effects on sexual performance in addition to aiding in ED.
The research concluded that men with the worst cases of erectile dysfunction experienced the most significant improvement when they exercised. This study used the International Index of Erectile Function-EF to measure the severity of ED, which ranged from no ED (26-30) to mild ED (22-25), mild-to-moderate ED (17-21), moderate ED (11-16), and severe ED (6-10).
This meta-study is unique because its results are based on eleven randomised, controlled trials, considered the most reliable type of research. On average, participants saw an improvement of 2.8 points on the IIIEF-EF scale. Individuals with mild, moderate, and severe erectile dysfunction experienced an average gain of 2.3, 3.3, and 4.9 points, respectively.
Most Common Cause Of Erectile Dysfunction
A researcher who was not a part of this study pointed out that erectile dysfunction (ED) in one's 30s or 40s could indicate a potential risk of cardiovascular decline in the future. Therefore, instead of taking medications such as Viagra or Cialis, it is more important to get one's lipid panel checked.
He said that atherosclerosis, the same disease that results in strokes and heart attacks, can also affect the vasculature of the penis. This is because the vessels in the penis are much smaller, so the effects are more apparent and begin to manifest sooner.
It's often said that one can gauge a person's heart health through the condition of their sexual function. A healthy erection can be an indicator of good cardiovascular health, as issues like high blood pressure, metabolic syndrome, dyslipidemia, and diabetes are shared risk factors for both erectile dysfunction (ED) and heart disease.
Furthermore, some men may develop ED following radical prostatectomies due to potential muscle damage. However, a single study on radical prostatectomies included in the meta-analysis of this research did not provide sufficient data to explore the impact of aerobic exercise on this specific subgroup of patients.
ED Treatment And Medications
The majority of medications for erectile dysfunction, like Viagra and Cialis, work by inhibiting phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5). This enzyme restricts the activity of nitric oxide and the relaxation of the smooth muscles in the penis. When the muscles are relaxed for a more extended period, the penis becomes engorged with blood.
In some cases, specific individuals cannot use PDE5 inhibitors due to medical contraindications or an intolerance to their side effects. These medications don't solely target the smooth muscles in the penile area but also affect smooth muscles in various body parts.
This can lead to significant drops in blood pressure, potential issues like GERD (gastric reflux disease) due to the involvement of smooth muscles in the oesophagus, as well as sinusitis and headaches.
It's worth noting that PDE5 inhibitors are also prescribed to manage pulmonary hypertension, a condition related to blood pressure in the lung vasculature.
More Evidence Of Aerobic Exercise’s Sexual Benefits
For a long time, the potential of exercise in treating erectile dysfunction (ED) has been overlooked due to limited research on its effectiveness. However, recent findings confidently assert that aerobic exercise can lead to clinically significant improvements in erectile function.
In the trials examined within the meta-study, various exercise durations were studied, but most involved engaging in aerobic activities for 30 to 60 minutes three to five times per week. These exercise levels align with recommendations from the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Individuals who may not meet these specific exercise goals should still aim to be as physically active as their abilities and health conditions allow. Given the strong connection between ED and cardiovascular health, the same types of physical activities that promote heart health can also contribute to a reduction in ED.
It's worth noting that exercise can have broader benefits beyond ED, including improved libido, enhanced stamina, and increased self-confidence in terms of sexual performance. Additionally, exercises targeting the pelvic floor, such as Kegels, may improve sexual stamina by enhancing muscle control, potentially leading to longer-lasting sexual activity and heightened orgasmic responses.
The Study’s Clinical Implications
The meta-analysis of randomised trials has presented the first Level I evidence supporting the effectiveness of aerobic exercise in improving erectile function.
This significant finding allows healthcare professionals to confidently advise patients that regular aerobic activity is a proven and well-supported approach.
Exercise should be considered a primary intervention for erectile dysfunction (ED), as it is a low-risk, cost-effective option accessible to individuals who may not be suitable candidates for PED5 medications.
This study shows that physical activity can be a powerful tool in treating erectile dysfunction, and doctors should recommend it to their patients.
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