Erectile dysfunction (ED) or impotence affects more men than one may think. It’s embarrassing, uncomfortable, and can cause frustration, making it hard to form relationships with partners. Learning how to prevent or stop it from worsening if you’re experiencing symptoms is possible and useful. Here are the most common six causes and treatment options of erectile dysfunction to get back to feeling more like yourself.
Psychological Causes
Stress
Constant and excessive stress can cause physical and psychological conditions leading to erectile dysfunction. This includes difficulties managing emotions, facing worries or fears, or meeting relationship expectations.
Low Self-Esteem
Men with low self-esteem can have trouble feeling confident and comfortable during intimate moments, leading to ED. To combat this, focus on activities and confidence-building strategies that help boost self-esteem.
Guilt
The guilt associated with sexual desires or past experiences can lead to psychological barriers that prevent achieving or maintaining an erection.
Relationship issues
Communication problems, unresolved conflicts, or emotional distance within a relationship can contribute to sexual dysfunction, including ED.
Fear of Failure
Psychological barriers, such as the fear of disappointing one’s partner or past negative sexual encounters, can hinder sexual arousal.
Physical Causes
Heart Disease
Heart disease narrows and blocks blood vessels, which reduces blood flow throughout the body, including to the penis. This can result in difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection.
Diabetes
Diabetes can damage the nerves and blood vessels that control erections. This damage can lead to difficulties in achieving or maintaining an erection. Managing diabetes well can help control this condition and reduce the risk of ED.
High Cholesterol
Cholesterol buildup in the blood vessels can decrease blood flow throughout the body, which includes the penis. High cholesterol levels can increase the risk of erectile dysfunction by almost double.
Treatment Options
Medications
There are various medications available for treating ED in Canada. These include Stendra (avanafil), Cialis (Tadalafil), Levitra (Vardenafil), and Viagra ( Sildenafil). You can consult with an online Viagra Canada doctor and have the medication delivered to your door within 48 hours.
Penile Injections
Penile injections involve the injection of medication directly into the penis. This method is less commonly used because it requires injecting medication into the penis, making it uncomfortable. However, many men have found this therapy to be highly effective and satisfying. Your doctor will provide proper training before you start the injections because wrongly injecting the medication can lead to scarring, penile curvature, and nodules. Getting proper training before beginning injection therapy on your own is vital.
Vacuum Devices
Vacuum devices use a vacuum to draw blood into the penis by applying negative pressure, making it easier to achieve an erection. This treatment option requires some preparation, but it can be effective for men who prefer not to take medications. VEDs should always be used in conjunction with medical supervision.
Surgery
Vascular surgery involves the use of implant devices to help achieve an erection. It is used when you have severe erectile dysfunction.
Self-Help Tips
You can prevent and manage erectile dysfunction by yourself through the following:
- Maintain a healthy weight and eat a balanced diet
- Exercising regularly
- Reducing alcohol consumption
- Quitting smoking
- Managing stress
- Seeking treatment for underlying health conditions such as heart disease and diabetes
Erectile dysfunction is a common problem, but it shouldn’t be something you just accept. There are treatments available to help you overcome ED and restore your confidence. It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment, as physical causes may coexist with psychological factors. A comprehensive approach to managing ED can help improve sexual function and overall well-being.
