The inability to maintain or attain an erection long enough for sexual satisfaction is known as erectile dysfunction. It has been observed that the average age of people facing erectile dysfunction is 50 years. After the age of 40, the testosterone levels in men start to decline. After the age of 50, the sexual function starts to sharply decrease.
What causes erectile dysfunction?
The major cause of erectile dysfunction is the low testosterone levels. Chronic illnesses can also cause the sexual drive to decline. Diabetes, heart diseases, hypertension, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, high cholesterol, and obesity often trigger erectile dysfunction. Diabetes (especially type 2 diabetes) has been known to cause damage to the nerves that are activated whenever there is an increase in the flow of blood in the genital region. Artery blockage and heart diseases cause constriction of blood flow. This makes it difficult to attain or maintain an erection.
Other common causes of erectile dysfunction include depression, anxiety, tobacco use, and excess consumption of alcohol. This affects the nervous system, physical coordination, and arousal. Taking certain medications can also cause erectile dysfunction; prescription medications such as antidepressants, hormone therapy drugs, calcium channel blockers, and antihistamines can affect the sexual drive in some men. Emotional stress can also trigger erectile dysfunction.
How to avoid erectile dysfunction
For many, erectile dysfunction can be unavoidable as they age. However, there are ways to delay the effects of erectile dysfunction.
- Manage health conditions that cause erectile dysfunction: One of the most effective ways of delaying erectile dysfunction is to address the health conditions that may cause the sexual drive to decline. These health conditions include diabetes, neurological diseases, high blood pressure, and hardening of arteries. It is necessary to undergo regular health checkups, monitor health, and take precautions to prevent any of these health conditions from aggravating. This can delay the onset of erectile dysfunction.
- Stop smoking: Smoking is one of the major short-term and long-term causes of erectile dysfunction. The blood vessels that lead to erection are constricted by nicotine. Nicotine can also cause the arteries to harden and lead to erectile dysfunction. Quitting smoking can be quite helpful in delaying erectile dysfunction. Using nicotine patches or gum, joining the program for smoke cessation, and avoiding smoking triggers can help to quit smoking.
- Eat a healthy diet: Obesity and high cholesterol are also major causes of erectile dysfunction. A diet that is good for the heart can help to avoid erectile dysfunction. Foods that help to combat bad cholesterol and avoid weight gain can prevent the onset of cardiovascular diseases. To avoid erectile dysfunction, eat a lot of whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. The daily diet should be low in cholesterol and saturated fats.
How to manage erectile dysfunction
Since erectile dysfunction can be unavoidable for many as they age, they need to learn to manage their low sexual drive. It is possible to have a healthy sex life despite having erectile dysfunction.
- An open conversation with the partner: Openly talking to the partner about the sexual issues can help to alleviate anxiety and enjoy intimacy.
- Consult a sex therapist: A sex therapist can help to clarify a lot of queries and concerns about erectile dysfunction. The therapist can also prescribe techniques that can help to deal with erectile dysfunction.
- Visit your doctor regularly: Regular visits to the doctor can help to monitor and manage health conditions that lead to erectile dysfunction.
