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What causes ED?
Like most sexual disorders, ED can be caused by a range of physical and psychological determinants. Biologically speaking, weak erections are a result of reduced blood flow to your penis, which is usually caused due to the narrowing of blood vessels. This can be aggravated by certain existing medical conditions. A few of these are:
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Sleep disorder
- Heart diseases
- Clogged blood vessels
- Low levels of testosterone
- Existing injuries, especially in the lower back or pubic area
Some of the psychological factors that can cause ED (or worsen existing symptoms) include grief, past trauma, clinical depression, performance anxiety, or excessive stress caused due to problems at your work, in your relationship, etc.
Treatment options for ED
ED can be treated in a number of ways. While seeking professional help is a great idea (that’s what we personally recommend!), you can also try out several natural remedies and lifestyle changes to manage any ED-related symptoms. Go through the list we have compiled for you covering some of the most effective treatment options for ED and see what works for you!
Exercise
Regular physical activity helps manage the symptoms of ED, especially for people with obesity, high levels of cholesterol, or heart diseases. A 2018 study states that practising aerobic exercise for around 40 minutes everyday four times a week can noticeably improve your ability to sustain erections within six months.
You don’t have to go all out or join a gym to squeeze the recommended exercise into your daily routine; physical activities like walking, jogging,cycling, or swimming work just fine!
Changes in diet
Following a balanced diet and cutting down your intake of processed foods can improve your sexual health and reduce any symptoms related to ED.
Research from 2020 demonstrated that people following a mediterranean diet are less likely to develop ED. According to the findings of this study, the key changes you can make to your diet include adding more fruits, vegetables, nuts, pulses, and fish to your diet while reducing the intake of red meat.
Lifestyle changes
Quitting smoking can significantly impact you sexual health. On the other hand, a study from 2018 found that consuming alcohol in a moderate amount can keep ED in check, while high or low alcohol consumption do not significantly affect ED. However, this has been challenged by the findings of more recent studies that identified alcohol as a risk factor for ED.
Having a regular and consistent sleeping schedule and making other modifications to your overall lifestyle so that you can reduce your stress levels can also prevent ED symptoms. Stress management is perhaps the most potent long term non-medical treatment for ED.
Medication
Seperal medicines and supplements can help you get stronger erections. Some medications that are often prescribed for ED include:
- Sildenafil (Viagra)
- Vardenafil
- Avanafil
- L-Arginine
A lot of these medications work better when combined with lifestyle changes such as stress management, weight loss, and a healthy diet.
However, it is essential that you take only the medicines prescribed by your doctor. Make sure you discuss your medical history and whether you are on any other meds with your doctor beforehand, as certain medications can affect the efficacy of drugs that treat ED. This especially applies to you if you have hypertension, hypotension, or any ailments related to your heart, liver, or kidneys.
Therapy
There are two ways in which therapy can help treat and/or manage the symptoms of ED. First, you can opt for sex therapy or discuss your sexual health-related issues with a psychotherapist. Other than that, if you have a partner, both of you could also try couples counselling. This is particularly applicable to couples who have been facing problems in their relationship, as that might take a toll on your sexual performance.
Need help?
Over half of all individuals with penises experience ED at some point. If you are one of them, remember that it can be cured and it is not the end of your sex life. By adopting healthier lifestyle habits and seeking the right treatment, you can easily overcome ED. If you have ED, talk to a doctor at the earliest to figure out a treatment plan that suits you the best.
Wondering where to find an experienced, non-judgemental doctor? No worries, we’ve you covered! Simply click the button below and fill out a quick form, and we will match you with an expert who can solve all your queries regarding sexual health.
