Erectile dysfunction (ED) is defined as the inability to develop or maintain an erection that is sufficient for sexual intercourse. It is a prevalent issue among men, especially ones reaching middle age. In the United States, about 150 million men experience some form of ED, and about 75 million men have extreme cases of ED. Although there is no exact number, it is estimated that about 20 million American men experience chronic ED. Just how much does ED affect your life? Let’s take a look.
The Effects Of ED On Your Life
If you’re like most men, the effects of ED are probably felt most heavily in your relationships with your friends and lovers. After all, if you can’t satisfy your lover, you’ll never get to enjoy an intimate connection with another person. Aside from the obvious emotional effects, there are also physical effects to consider. Men with ED are generally more prone to heart disease, diabetes, and high cholesterol. They are also at increased risk of osteoporosis, due to the frequent use of nitroglycerin, a common blood pressure medication. ED is also considered to be a clinical marker for prostate cancer, as prostate tumors have been known to disrupt the normal functioning of the male sexual organ, causing ED. Unfortunately, there is no known cure for ED. However, there are several treatments available that can help to improve your quality of life, and maybe even give you another 10 years or more of sexual activity. We’ll discuss several treatment options below, including over-the-counter remedies, supplements, and prescription drugs. If you’re struggling with ED, it’s time to seek help, because there is no reason to be embarrassed about your inability to perform sexually.
Over-the-Counter Treatments
If you’re not sure where to buy over-the-counter treatments, you can start with the commonly recommended vitamin C. Taking 500 mg of vitamin C daily, in divided doses, can increase your body’s nitric oxide levels, which in turn, can help to boost your erection. Even better, in a systematic review of eleven clinical trials testing the effects of vitamin C on ED, it was found that men taking vitamin C experienced a significant improvement in their erectile function. So, if you’re looking for an over-the-counter solution, try taking vitamin C, especially if you’re not sure what form to take (i.e., tablets or syrup). The reason for this is that tablets taste awful, and while syrup is convenient, it can be difficult for your body to process the large amounts contained in a single dose.
Supplements
Another popular over-the-counter solution for ED is ginseng. In a 2015 study published in the International Journal of Sexual Medicine, forty-two men with mild to severe ED were given either a daily dose of ginseng (Panax ginseng) or a placebo. At the end of eight weeks, men in the ginseng group experienced a significant increase in their erectile function, as measured by the erection hardness score. Ginseng is also known to increase the body’s nitric oxide levels, which can help to boost your erection. However, as with vitamin C, there is no reason to rush out and buy ginseng, as it can be acquired for free, from your local health food store.
Prescription Drugs
For men with more severe ED, or for those who don’t respond well to over-the-counter treatments, there are several prescription drugs that can help to improve their erectile function. One of the most popular drugs is sildenafil citrate, better known under the trade name Viagra. Viagra is a phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor, which helps to improve blood flow to the male sexual organ, resulting in more sustainable erections. It is also worthy of note that sildenafil citrate is currently the only drug approved by the FDA for directly treating ED. So, if you’re looking for a prescription solution, try sildenafil citrate, which you can find in most pharmacies. The only downside to Viagra is that it can be quite expensive. Thankfully, there are insurance plans that cover the costs of medication, so you won’t need to worry about the financials.
When To Seek Help
If you’re still not sure where to buy over-the-counter treatments for ED, it’s probably time to seek help. There are several signs that can let you know if you’re lacking in sufficient amounts of nitric oxide in your body. First, if you’re experiencing frequent headaches, it could be that you’re overusing nitroglycerin, which is a common cause of headaches. Other potential causes of headaches include depression, anxiety, and blood pressure problems. If you’re not sure of the root cause of your headaches, it might be a good idea to consult with a physician.
Men experiencing ED can greatly benefit from a good physical examination, especially if they’re over 40 years of age. During the exam, your doctor will be able to determine your current state of health, as well as, whether or not you’re eligible for any medical treatments. However, even those who are not physically ill often benefit from talking to a trained therapist. There is a wealth of information available online, as well as, in books, that can help to educate and empower you to cope with ED. If you’re looking for a way to improve your overall quality of life, it might be a good idea to consult with a physician, or licensed clinical social worker. They can help to set up a treatment plan, that can include things like counseling or medication, and help to direct you toward healthier living habits. So, if you’re looking for a way to improve your erectile function, try consulting with your doctor or a therapist. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, and remember, nothing about ED is taboo. Sexual health is a major aspect of overall health, and it’s never too early or too late to start taking care of your health, body, and well-being.