While it can be embarrassing to talk about, erectile dysfunction is a very real problem. It affects approximately 30 million men in the United States. It can have many causes, and is more common with aging, but can affect men at any stage in life. If you are suffering from ED, then it is always a good idea to talk to your doctor. There are several potential negative effects associated with ED. Here are some of the most common, and how to treat it.
Could Be a Symptom of Something More Serious
Many men who suffer from ED find out that they have a more serious underlying condition that has caused it. Diabetes is the most common, but it can also be a sign of heart disease, chronic inflammation, sleep apnea, high blood pressure, and more. By talking to your doctor, you may be able to identify and treat something that has been going undetected.
Impotence
ED isn’t just about not being able to maintain an erection. It can mean much more than that. If you aren’t able to get a proper erection to have intercourse, then you may not be able to impregnate your partner. You need an erection to do so. Aside from issues with conception, male infertility can create issues between partners and disharmony at home.
By treating the ED, you may be able to conceive with your partner. You can do this through natural or medical needs, depending on the advice of your doctor. If you are not fully able to treat your ED, there is always the option of using a sperm donor. Sperm banks like Cryos International offer a wide selection of potential donors, along with the option of at-home insemination.
Unsatisfactory Sex Life
One of the problems with ED is that it can be a self-fulfilling prophecy. If you do not have a satisfactory sex life, it can lead to problems with your erection. This in turn will cause you to continue to have an unsatisfactory sex life. The cycle can go on and on. This can lead to issues between partners, with one wondering if they are the problem, and the other being constantly nervous about performance.
For situations like this, the best option might be therapy. Talking with a counseling or sex therapist will help to come to grips with the issue and get in the right headspace. By identifying the problem, you can then do the work to be more relaxed and confident when it comes time for intercourse. Talking with your partner is also important since you can discuss your misgivings and discomforts, which will also make you feel more confident and relaxed.
ED is Linked to Mental Health
ED is closely linked to mental health issues. Not being able to perform sexually can cause serious trauma to the psyche. In particular, those who suffer from ED can have low self-esteem and chronic low self-confidence. Depression is also a result of ED. Sexuality is such a big part of our lives, and ED can make someone feel like they are incomplete, or that there is a hole in their lives.
It’s important to talk to a mental health professional if you are dealing with ED. You may not even realize that you are having mental health issues. A therapist or another professional can identify your problems and recommend treatment.
You May Have to Change Your Personal Habits
In many cases, ED is caused by personal lifestyle choices that have an impact on your health. These include things like drinking and smoking. They are not just damaging to your lungs and liver, but they can affect your sexual functions as well. Obesity also has a connection to ED. To fix this it could be that you need to make necessary changes to your lifestyle to get your erectile performance back on track. Quit smoking and drinking, exercise more, and watch what you eat. After a while, you should start to see improvements with your ED issues.
Vascular Issues
If you have ED, then it is not something that you should ignore. Make sure that you talk to your doctor as soon as possible, no matter how uncomfortable the subject makes you. The reason is that in many cases ED is caused by blood not being able to reach the blood cells in your penis. This can happen if your blood vessels are blocked or damaged, which are both big red flags for heart disease. Your ED may just be your body not operating as it should, and you need to have that problem addressed as soon as possible.
Never accept ED as an inevitable part of aging. You may not like the thought of talking about it with your doctor, but your ED may be having other negative effects or be a symptom of something worse. ED can be treated, depending on the nature and the cause of your affliction. Talk to your doctor and get started on an ED free life.
Laila Azzahra is a professional writer and blogger that loves to write about technology, business, entertainment, science, and health.