Sexual health pertains to a man’s well-being in being able to partake and enjoy sexual activity. A man’s sexual health is influenced by a variety of factors including interpersonal, physical, psychological and social. Although sex is a pleasurable activity, it plays a critical role in strengthening a connection between two people.
Sex is a vital part of a man’s life. Sex drive and sexual expression has a life-long affect and has a dominating effect on a man’s life. Most men have thousands of thoughts about sex every day, beginning prior to puberty and continuing through the end of life.
Erectile dysfunction also referred to as “ED,” is a condition that affects men, making sexual intercourse difficult as a result of being incapable to achieve and sustain the necessary erection.
Although occasional difficulties getting and maintaining an erection do not indicate a serious problem, persistent erectile dysfunction is, and can be a source of stress as a result of diminishing self-confidence and relationship difficulties. Moreover, erectile dysfunction may be the root cause of an serious health concern which requires treatment as well as a potential indicator of heart disease.
Not getting the proper treatment for erectile dysfunction will not only continue to hinder sexual intercourse, but will become more severe with advancing age. According to current statistics, only 1 in 5 men with erectile issues seek help, mainly due to embarrassment.
Men with a concern regarding erectile dysfunction, should talk with their doctor. In many cases, treatment of the fundamental problem is sufficient to reverse the condition. Alternatively, medications available today are highly effective and may offer additional treatment options.
Persistent symptoms associated with erectile dysfunction include:
Sexual arousal in men is a complicated process, which engages blood vessels, the brain, emotions, hormones and muscles of the body. Erectile dysfunction can occur when the health of these tissues is compromised. Additionally, lifestyle, stress and mental health can often cause and/or exacerbate erectile dysfunction. In many cases both physical health conditions and psychological problems can trigger erectile dysfunction.
Physical medical conditions which can cause erectile dysfunction include:
There are a number of required physical actions which are activated by the brain in order to achieve an erection. Starting with the state of mind that brings about sexual excitement. The mental state that is required for sexual arousal can be disrupted by a number of psychological factors, and as a result will exacerbate erectile dysfunction.
Some of these psychological/mental factors include:
Psychological problems that can result from erectile dysfunction may include:
Prevention of erectile dysfunction begins with living a healthy lifestyle and treating current health concerns which may include:
The failure to attain and maintain and erection during sex may be caused by a medical condition known as erectile dysfunction, which may also be an indication of present and future heart issues. Conversely, those who have been diagnosed with heart disease, may be able to alleviate symptoms of erectile dysfunction.
Previously it was thought that atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in the arteries), was the cause of erectile dysfunction as it generally comes before heart issues. The thinking at the time, was that the buildup of plaque decreases blood flow to the penis, therefore making it difficult to achieve and/or maintain an erection.
Today however, medical specialists have a different view of the relationship between heart problems and erectile dysfunction. This view is that heart issues that occur subsequent to erectile dysfunction is mainly due to the failure of the endothelium (the inner lining of the blood vessels) and smooth muscle tissue. Endothelial failure causes insufficient blood supply levels to the heart, impairs blood flow to the penis and is the precursor to atherosclerosis.
Although erectile dysfunction is not the prominent indicator of future heart health issues, current research recommends for men who suffer from erectile dysfunction and show no symptoms of heart problems, must be screened for heart disease before beginning any treatment. Additionally, testosterone levels should be checked, as men with lower levels of testosterone generally have a higher incident of erectile dysfunction and cardiovascular disease.
Men who have diabetes, particularly individuals with type 2 diabetes usually suffer from erectile dysfunction. This occurs as a result of damage to the blood vessels and nerves due to long-term improper control of blood sugar.
Fortunately, today there are multiple treatment options available for men suffering from erectile dysfunction.
Medication that is prescribed by physicians for erectile dysfunction include: