For men- what you should know about erectile dysfunction

Having erection trouble from time to time isn't necessarily a cause for concern. If erectile dysfunction is an ongoing issue, however, it can cause stress, affect your self-confidence and contribute to relationship problems. Problems getting or keeping an erection also can be a sign of an underlying health condition that needs treatment and a risk factor for heart disease down the road.

What is erectile dysfunction 

Erectile dysfunction (impotence) is the inability to get and keep an erection firm enough for sex.
Erectile dysfunction is also defined as difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection sufficient enough to have sex.

Symptoms of erectile dysfunction 

Erectile dysfunction symptoms might include persistent:
➡️Trouble getting an erection
➡️Trouble keeping an erection
➡️Reduced sexual desire

Causes of erectile dysfunction 

There are many possible causes for erectile dysfunction and they can include both psychological and physical disorders. Some common causes are:
➡️cardiovascular disease
➡️diabetes
➡️hypertension
➡️hyperlipidemia
➡️damage from cancer or surgery
➡️injuries
➡️obesity or being overweight
➡️increased age
➡️stress
➡️anxiety
➡️relationship problems
➡️drug use
➡️alcohol use
➡️smoking

Treatment of erectile dysfunction 

Oral medications 

The following medications stimulate blood flow to your penis to help treat erectile dysfunction:
➡️alprostadil (Caverject)
➡️avanafil (Stendra)
➡️sildenafil (Viagra)
➡️tadalafil (Cialis)
➡️testosterone (Androderm)
➡️vardenafil (Levitra

Psychological counseling

If your erectile dysfunction is caused by stress, anxiety or depression — or the condition is creating stress and relationship tension, your care giver might suggest that you, or you and your partner, visit a psychologist or counselor.

Lifestyle changes and diet

Healthy lifestyle habits may prevent erectile dysfunction, and in some situations reverse the condition:
➡️Regular exercise.
➡️Maintain a low blood pressure.
➡️Eat a balanced/nutritious diet.
➡️Maintain a healthy weight.
➡️Avoid alcohol and cigarettes.
➡️Reduce your stress.

Prevention of erectile dysfunction 

The best way to prevent erectile dysfunction is to make healthy lifestyle choices and to manage any existing health conditions. For example:
➡️Work with your healthcare provider to manage diabetes, heart disease or other chronic health conditions.
➡️See your care giver for regular checkups and medical screening tests.
➡️Stop smoking
➡️Limit or avoid alcohol
➡️Don't use illegal drugs.
➡️Exercise regularly.
➡️Take steps to reduce stress.
➡️Get help for anxiety, depression or other mental health concerns

Resources
Healthline
Mayoclinic


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