Erectile dysfunction (ED) is man’s inability to maintain his firm erection during sex. This condition can happen at any age, not just during old age. You don’t need to panic if you experience this once in a while - it may just be the result of stress, fatigue or excessive alcohol consumption. However, when it is occurring consistently for some time, you may need to seek help to solve the problem.
Formerly a taboo subject, erectile dysfunction or impotence is now openly discussed in all forms of media and the type of information that you can research on this topic is overwhelming. Experts say that this is more of a physical problem than a psychological issue since many men still experience normal erections well into their 80’s.
Common causes of erectile dysfunction include heart disease, obesity, atherosclerosis, diabetes, high blood pressure, and metabolic syndrome. Other causes can be certain prescription medications, alcoholism, and tobacco use. You can prevent erectile dysfunction from happening to you by reducing stress, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep.
Even if you are embarrassed to talk to a doctor about sexual concerns, it is still highly recommended that you do it. Who knows, maybe some medications or a little surgery can help restore your sexual function. Or you don’t know that your condition is already the beginning of a serious health problem. At least you have the facts.
You can start the healing process with these treatment options:
• Share your concerns to your partner by being honest in asking for her support. You can also start placing more importance on other forms of sexual intimacy such as kissing, cuddling, massaging or licking. Aside from the intercourse, these are other pleasurable ways to keep you emotionally attached to your partner.
• Seek counseling or sex therapy to help restore self esteem and sexual confidence even without intercourse. You may also involve your partner on this session.
• Try to take phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitor drugs such as Viagra, Cialis or Levitra. Prior consultation with a doctor is required on this. Your doctor can also prescribe other treatments such as testosterone or penile injections. He may even suggest penile implants.
Words of advice: don’t keep the problem of erectile dysfunction to yourself for it will only cause you mental and emotional stress. Remember that there are several options for you to cope with it, and there are people that can help you.