What is erectile dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction (ED), also called impotence, affects ~30 million men in the U.S. ED means you can't get or maintain a hard, erect penis for sexual intercourse. It's important not to ignore ED, as it can be an early warning sign of underlying health issues like heart disease or diabetes.
Common Causes
ED has a few common causes. The most common are:
- Aging - As you get older, erections may take longer to develop and may not be as firm.
- Underlying health issues - Heart disease, diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and more can cause circulation issues that impact erections.
Lifestyle Factors
Your lifestyle habits also affect erections:
- Smoking - Nicotine reduces blood flow which can limit erections
- Alcohol and drugs - Can reduce testosterone levels and sexual response over time
- Stress and anxiety - Can interfere with arousal signals to the brain
Symptoms of ED
Symptoms of ED include:
- Difficulty getting an erection
- Difficulty keeping a firm erection long enough for sex
- Loss of interest in sex
Treatment Options
There are treatment options that can help improve or cure ED in most men:
- Oral medications like sildenafil (Viagra) can improve blood flow for erections
- Testosterone replacement therapy can restore low T levels
- Penis pumps and implants can mechanically assist with erections
- Stimulation medications like alprostadil can promote blood flow
- Lifestyle changes can often reverse ED related to diet, exercise, sleep habits, and stress management
If you're struggling with ED, I highly recommend contacting Harmony Hormone Therapy. They specialize in ED treatments via oral medications, customized testosterone therapies, and lifestyle coaching. Their programs can help you achieve stronger, more reliable erections once again.
Let me know if you have any other questions! I'm happy to provide more details on ED causes, symptoms, and treatments.