Most men are uncomfortable discussing erectile dysfunction, even with their doctors. However, this should not be the case as it is not a rare condition. In fact, over 12 million men in the United States struggle with erectile dysfunction.
Erectile dysfunction, or ED, is defined as the inability to get or maintain an erection for sexual performance. If left untreated, it can be a cause of stress, low self-confidence, and broken relationships. Furthermore, ED can be a symptom of serious underlying health conditions. If you are concerned about ED, talk to a specialist on men’s sexual health in Palm Beach.
Risk Factors for Erectile Dysfunction
Even though erectile dysfunction is more common in men over the age of 40, it can affect men of all ages once they pass puberty. Several factors may increase your risk of developing this condition which includes:
- Age
The risk of ED increases with age. Approximately 2 to 12 percent of men over 40 struggle with symptoms of this condition. The number increases significantly with every additional decade of life.
- Diabetes
Diabetes comes with many health problems, one among them specifically being erectile dysfunction. 5 out of every 10 diabetic men above 40 years old struggle with symptoms of ED. Medical studies indicate that the longer you’ve had diabetes, the higher your chance is of developing erectile dysfunction.
Although diabetes-related ED is not reversible, you can significantly improve your symptoms by maintaining healthy blood sugar levels.
- Prostate Cancer and Inflammation
Health problems with your prostate can lead to erectile dysfunction. Although the prostate produces one of the components of semen, prostate cancer does not directly cause ED. Nevertheless, the medications used to treat it can increase your risk. Further chronic prostate inflammation or prostate cancer can lead to difficulty getting an erection and painful ejaculation.
- Medication and Drug Use
Certain prescription medications such as blood pressure medication, antidepressants, antihistamines, and some opioid pain medications, contribute to the development of ED. Overuse of recreational drugs and alcohol can also accelerate the symptoms of ED. If you start experiencing symptoms of ED after starting on a new medication, you should consult with your doctor or pharmacist.
- Smoking
Overall, the use of tobacco is closely linked with many health issues, including erectile dysfunction. Nicotine reduces blood flow through your body, including the blood vessels in your penis. This decrease in blood supply increases the difficulty of achieving and maintaining an erection.
- Anxiety and Mental Health
Your brain plays a significant role in the development of erectile dysfunction. Mental issues like stress can prevent your brain from releasing hormones and creating the necessary nerve connections responsible for achieving and sustaining an erection.
Stressors that predispose you to ED include anxiety, depression, and even nervousness in the bedroom. With the right treatment and support, however, these factors are manageable and likely reversible.
- Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Some STIs like gonorrhea, chlamydia, viral hepatitis, and untreated HIV may cause prostate gland infections. When this happens, you may also develop symptoms of ED. The good news is, if you address the prostate infection and manage the STI, your erectile dysfunction will likely resolve as well.
- Obesity or Being Overweight
Your weight affects your body’s hormone levels. According to medical experts, being obese or overweight causes your body to convert testosterone to estrogen. Low testosterone levels in the body increase the risks of erectile dysfunction.
Final Thoughts
Erectile dysfunction can be overwhelming for most men. However, once you take that first important step of talking to your doctor, you can be on your way to recovery. Your health provider will consider the treatment options available and design the perfect regimen for you. Additionally, as with every health-related condition, a positive change in your lifestyle can produce optimal results. Exercise frequently and adopt a healthy diet.