Despite the fact that erectile dysfunction (ED) can be a normal part of a man’s life, there are still men who are too uncomfortable speaking to their physician about it. ED is a very common problem for older men, and it’s estimated that half of men between the ages of 40 and 70 have trouble getting or maintaining an erection during intercourse. We’ve provided answers to the most common questions men with erectile dysfunction are often too embarrassed to ask their physician.
Is it normal to have ED? If you have trouble getting or maintaining an erection occasionally, then you likely have nothing to worry about. Mood, stress, and fatigue can all contribute to ED. Additionally, the older a man gets, the more common it may become to struggle to maintain an erection. If you are continuously unable to do so, there could be an issue. Remember, you are not a machine, and, just like some days are better than others, the same is true about erections.
When should I be concerned? If you are having persistent difficulty getting or maintaining an erection during sexual intercourse, you should consult your physician.
Does weight contribute to ED? There are many factors that can cause or contribute to ED, and being overweight is one of those factors. Improving your general health by losing weight, eating healthy foods and having regular physical exercise and seeing your doctor for regular examinations in order to detect any abnormalities, that can help be proactive and avoid the problem in the future.
Can smoking cause ED? Smoking can cause many health problems, including ED. Smoking can damage blood vessels and restrict the proper flow of blood, which can contribute to ED.
What about alcohol? Like smoking, alcohol can contribute to ED. While drinking has often been associated with an increase in a desire for sexual activity, over drinking can impact the body in many different ways and directly or indirectly cause erectile dysfunction. Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol can affect other organs like the liver and brain. Too much alcohol can contribute to ED.
Do chronic health conditions contribute to ED? Yes! Diabetes, depression, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, neurological diseases, or kidney disease may contribute to ED. Sometimes the medications used to treat these conditions also can cause ED. Discuss your medications and medical conditions with your physician to learn more specifically about your individual health issues and to see if they could be contributing to ED.
How does stress affect ED? General daily stress can affect ED, depending on how you deal with it. Anxiety is especially known to contribute to ED. Financial, emotional, and workplace stress can be a factor in the bedroom. Marital relationships and new partners issues can also contribute to ED
Can Hormonal Issues Contribute to ED? Yes! Both men and women require certain hormones to have the desire for sexual activities. In men, testosterone and its byproducts are the usual cause of low desire and can lead to ED.
How can I improve my ED? The first step is to be honest and recognize there is a problem. Do not be afraid or embarrassed. Improving your general physical health will also improve your issues with ED. Losing weight, exercising regularly, and eating healthy foods will promote a healthy body.
Can my medications cause ED? There are many medications which can contribute to ED as a side-effect. Discuss your medications with your doctor to determine if they can be a factor. You may be able to switch to another medication to reduce this effect.
What are the most common treatments? There are a wide variety of treatments ranging from sex therapy, to pills, vacuum devices, shots, or even or penile implants. All can be discussed with your Georgia Urology physician.
Georgia Urology works hard to provide all of our patients with confidence and high-quality care, even in the face of difficult-to-discuss problems, such as ED. If you’re suffering and want to ask the questions men with erectile dysfunction should ask their doctors, take the first step by contacting Georgia Urology to schedule an evaluation and consultation today.
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