Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common problem that affects many men around the world. It refers to when a man has trouble getting or keeping an erection firm enough for sexual activity. Understanding why ED develops is important, because it can help you feel better and improve your intimate life, so you enjoy a more fulfilling overall life.
In this article, we will unravel the factors behind ED.
What is Erectile Dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction is more than just a one-time issue with getting an erection. It can be a sign of other health problems or stress. Knowing about ED can make or break how you handle it.
Why it Matters
Dealing with ED can be tough not just on your body but on your mind, too. It can make you feel embarrassed or upset. However, knowing what causes ED is the first step toward solving the problem.
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Health Problems
Some health issues can lead to ED. High blood pressure, heart disease, high cholesterol, and diabetes can all make it harder for blood to flow the way it should. These factors can stop the male organ from performing during intercourse.
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Lifestyle Choices
Many of your daily habits can also affect ED. The following can all contribute to ED:
- Smoking cigarettes
- Drinking too much alcohol
- Not being active
- Using drugs
- Eating unhealthy foods often
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Emotional and Mental Health
Feeling stressed, anxious, or sad can also lead to ED. These feelings can stop sexual feelings from achieving fruition. Problems in a relationship can also make ED worse. It is essential to deal with such issues with the help of professionals in order to solve ED.
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Medications
Sometimes, medicines you take for other health issues can cause ED as a side effect. For instance, some blood pressure drugs, antidepressants, and other medicines can affect erections.
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Age
Getting older is another reason why some men experience ED. While it is more common among older men, it is not a condition that is inevitable. There are ways to manage it no matter your age.
Treatments for Erectile Dysfunction
If you have trouble with erections, there is good news. There are many ways to help address the problem. Here are some treatments that can help.
Medications
There are many medications that doctors can prescribe to help with ED. These medicines make it easier to get and keep an erection. It is important to take them as directed in order to get satisfactory results without complications.
Lifestyle Changes
Sometimes, making changes to how you live can improve ED. Eating healthy foods, exercising more, stopping smoking, and drinking alcohol less often can all make a big difference. In fact, these changes can help your whole body feel better, not just help manage ED.
Counseling
Talking to someone like a counselor or therapist can help, too, especially if stress, anxiety, or relationship problems are causing ED. They can teach you ways to deal with stress and improve your relationships.
Devices and Surgery
In some cases, ED doctors might suggest using a specific device to help get an erection. There is also surgery, which can help in more serious situations. Specialists usually consider these options if other treatments have not worked to achieve good results.
When to Visit a Urologist
A urologist is a doctor who specializes in the health of the urinary tract and the male reproductive system. Here are reasons why you might need to see a urologist:
If Other Treatments Do Not Work
A urologist can offer many treatment options if you have tried lifestyle changes but they have not helped improve your ED symptoms.
To Get to the Root Cause
Sometimes, it can be difficult to figure out why a person has ED. In such situations, a urologist can perform various tests and do a thorough examination to find the underlying cause.
For Personalized Advice
A urologist can give you advice that is unique to your specific situation and underlying ED causes. Their treatment recommendations will also be unique to your health profile and needs.
If You Have Other Symptoms
If you are having other symptoms like pain, difficulty urinating, or any unusual symptoms in your genital area, it is important to see a urologist.
Do not be afraid to ask for help. Visiting an erectile dysfunction doctor can help you get the right treatment from a true expert. It is a big step toward addressing ED and improving your health.
The Best Erectile Dysfunction Doctor in Phoenix, AZ
There are many reasons why ED can develop. The good news is there are also many ways to help address it. Talking to an expert doctor is the first step. They can help figure out why it is happening and the best way to manage it. Remember, ED is very common, and you are not alone in this struggle.
Are you looking for the best erectile dysfunction doctor near you? If so, Ironwood Urology’s Dr. Desi Avila Jr. can help you. As a board-certified and fellowship-trained urologist, he can ensure you receive the comprehensive care you deserve. You may reach us at (480) 961-2323 to learn more about our treatments for ED. You can also book a consultation using our appointment request form.
Let us help you manage your ED by figuring out what is causing it and prescribing the right treatment to address it. We look forward to serving you!
