Erectile Dysfunction: How to Overcome Erection Problems
Although erectile dysfunction is joint and can be embarrassing, numerous treatment options exist.
- Between the ages of 40 and 70, more than half of men will experience erectile dysfunction (ED)
- 90% of men suffer from at least one physical condition.
- These could include heart disease, diabetes, and hormonal imbalances.
At some point in their lives, most men have difficulty obtaining or maintaining an erection. This condition is frequently referred to as erectile dysfunction, abbreviated as ED. According to the British Association of Urological Surgeons, ED affects more than half of men between 40 and 70.
However, a recent survey commissioned by the European Association of Urology (EAU) discovered that ED awareness is low among men and women aged 20 to 70. Most respondents were unaware of what ED was, and one in four had never heard of any of the most commonly prescribed treatments.
Why Men Should Talk to a Doctor About ED
It's counterproductive that our culture frequently refers to men as 'performers' in bed. This can result in excessive pressure and anxiety, compounding the problem.
However, while many people will suffer in silence, too embarrassed or ashamed to discuss it with their doctors, they must do so.
That is because ED is not solely a sexual dysfunction. This condition can also be a harbinger of undiagnosed underlying medical illnesses, like cardiac problems or type 2 diabetes.
Additionally, ED can impair self-esteem and result in frustration, anger, and mental health problems.
The good news is that sometimes simple lifestyle changes can reverse ED.
How to Talk to Your Partner About Erectile Dysfunction
Whether you are experiencing ED or have a partner who is, it can be a complex subject to discuss. While it is distressing when ED strikes, do not panic and assume your sexual life is over.
Any man can struggle to obtain or maintain an erection at times, and there are a variety of possible reasons for this, most notably psychological factors.
'So, give your partner time, gently encourage him to seek help without putting him under duress, listen non-judgmentally if he is stressed or struggling with mental health, and try not to take his erection difficulties personally.'
And keep in mind that sex does not have to end with penetration. 'As a couple, you can adjust your sexual activity to find other ways to please one another while remaining intimate.'
Typical Physical and Mental Causes of ED
Numerous factors can contribute to erectile dysfunction, and 90% of men have at least one underlying physical cause.
These frequently include undiagnosed or untreated cardiovascular disease or diabetes, so speaking with your doctor about it is critical.
Additionally, ED can result from hormonal imbalances, neurological disorders, pelvic surgery, or physical trauma.
Around 10% of men suffer from erection problems due to psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, depression, or 'performance anxiety.'
Although uncommon, approximately 1-3 per cent of men may have an anatomical abnormality such as a constricted foreskin, penile inflammation, or curvature.
Common Causes of Erectile Dysfunction
| Category | Potential Conditions |
|---|---|
| Physical causes | Diabetes, heart disease, high cholesterol |
| Psychological causes | Anxiety, depression, performance stress |
| Lifestyle triggers | Smoking, excessive alcohol, and obesity |
| Medication side effects | Antidepressants, blood pressure medications |
| Hormonal imbalance | Low testosterone |
Who Is Most at Risk for Erectile Dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction can occur at any age in a man.
On the other hand, Persistent difficulties with erections are more prevalent in men over 40 when risk factors like cardiac problems, hypertension, diabetes, or neurological conditions are more prevalent.
A healthy blood supply to the penis is required to obtain and maintain an erection. However, common circulatory problems such as atherosclerosis (a narrowing of the arteries caused by fatty deposits of substances such as cholesterol) can obstruct this process, resulting in erection problems.
As a side effect of various medications, ED can also occur. These include commonly prescribed drugs for depression, hypertension, and prostate enlargement.
Do Lifestyle Changes Help Treat ED?
Increasing your physical activity can reduce your risk of erectile dysfunction by up to 70%.
Indeed, a review of studies discovered that 40 minutes of moderate to vigorous cardiovascular activity (the kind that makes you sweat) four times a week can significantly reduce ED within six months.
Stopping smoking, losing weight, reducing alcohol consumption, reducing stress, and abstaining from illicit drugs can help alleviate erectile dysfunction.
Tress and excessive alcohol consumption are frequent ED triggers. So, if a man occasionally struggles to obtain or maintain an erection, perhaps because he has too much to drink or is under extreme work pressure, he need not be concerned.
Your doctor may recommend a break from cycling if you ride your bike more than three hours per week to see if it helps your condition. A properly fitted and comfortable seat is essential if you plan on cycling; some saddles are specifically designed to relieve pressure on the blood vessels and nerves that supply the penis.
When to See a Doctor for Erectile Dysfunction
According to research, many men find this issue so embarrassing that they wait more than two years before consulting a medical professional — even though physicians are trained to deal with ED.
If you've been experiencing erection difficulties for several weeks, schedule an appointment with a Mobi doctor.
If your partner is affected and hesitates to seek help, encourage him to do so because his doctor may need to run additional tests to rule out a physical cause.
What Treatments Can a GP Offer for ED?
Fortunately, the majority of cases of ED are treatable. A doctor will first obtain your complete medical history and order blood and urine tests to detect any underlying medical conditions.
Your physician may then suggest lifestyle changes. If these do not work, additional ED treatments include the following:
Erectile Dysfunction Medications: What to Know
You should always consult a physician or pharmacist before taking such medications — and never purchase them online from an unregulated source, as they may be counterfeit.
The medications used to treat ED may cause side effects such as headache, stuffy nose, flushing, or upset stomach. If this occurs — or is ineffective — a doctor may prescribe additional treatments to support erectile function. These may include penile injections or, if the condition is caused by physical trauma, surgery.
Viagra-like medications can sometimes cause serious side effects such as chest pains, seizures, painful erections, and sudden vision loss. Always seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.
If your ED is caused by atherosclerosis, your doctor may prescribe statins to control cholesterol levels and blood pressure-lowering medications.
How Vacuum Pumps Help with ED
You've probably read articles online about alternative treatment methods, such as vacuum pumps. These stimulate blood flow to the penis, resulting in an erection. They can be used without drugs and are effective for most men. Consult your physician about the most effective method of obtaining a pump.
Low Testosterone and Erectile Dysfunction
Your doctor may discover that your hormone levels are a factor in your ED. They may prescribe Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) or refer you to a specialist who is qualified to do so. TFT is available as a gel rubbed into the skin daily or as a long-acting injection every 6-12 weeks.
The Link Between Erectile Dysfunction and Mental Health
This can be accomplished in one of two ways. Depression can result in erectile dysfunction, and some medications used to treat depression can also cause erection problems. On the other hand, many men who develop persistent erectile dysfunction due to another condition, such as heart disease or diabetes, discover that having ED has a detrimental effect on their mental health, with men experiencing feelings of anger, sadness, and frustration.'
Counselling or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) may benefit both cases. A Mobi doctor can help you obtain a referral for a course of psychological therapies to help you cope with ED.
Online ED Treatment from Mobi Doctor
With Mobi Doctor, you can access online urgent care. Get an instant diagnosis, explore conditions and treatments, and text a healthcare professional if needed.
Mobi Doctor is a virtual clinic that provides online consultations and 24/7 support for people with health problems. You can talk to our experts about any health problem, whether an infection, an injury, or a mental health issue. We offer tailored advice and support from our team of doctors and experts.
