Erectile dysfunction is a problem for many men and, contrary to popular belief, not only those of a certain age. It can be an embarrassing condition – especially in younger men enjoying a healthy sex life – and one that some men still prefer not to talk about. Erectile dysfunction can cause problems in relationships and also affect the mental health of the man who sees himself as the cause of the problem.
So, what actually is erectile dysfunction, what causes it, and how can it be treated? These are all questions we will try and answer in the article that follows. We’ll begin with explaining erectile dysfunction in more detail.
What is Erectile Dysfunction?
To achieve and maintain an erection the penis needs to have adequate blood flow. The erection itself is a result of blood rushing to the penis and filling two sacs that expand the size and create the erection. This is a natural process that happens when we are aroused.
However, as we grow old the body’s response to signals dims, and the blood flow becomes less potent. The result is the inability to create or maintain an erection. However, it is not just age that influences erectile function, so let’s have a look at the causes other than aging.
What Causes Erectile Dysfunction?
We’ll come to the different types and methods of Erectile Dysfunction Treatment shortly and explain how to go about helping yourself as well as seeking professional treatment. First, we want to look at the causes of erectile dysfunction other than getting older. Here are some of the most common factors that influence erectile dysfunction:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Diabetes
- Damage from cancer or surgery
- Injuries
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Relationship problems
- Drug use
- Alcohol use
- Smoking
There are two distinct groups among the above list. Some are lifestyle induced – smoking, alcohol, drug use – while the remainder are medical or mental health issues. Our bodies react in certain ways to mood changes, and also to the environment we exist in.
As such, it should be said that erectile dysfunction is possibly a symptom of some of the above which the patient may not know that they are suffering from. This is why you should always see a doctor if you suffer as the underlying cause can be more serious. Now let’s talk about treatment for erectile dysfunction.
What are the Treatment Options for Erectile Dysfunction?
The first thing you will be advised when seeking treatment for erectile dysfunction is to change those lifestyle habits that are certainly part of the cause. If you smoke, you will be advised to give up and if you are a heavy drinker to cut down. You will also be advised to exercise and to refrain from indulging in recreational drugs. Additionally, If ever you’re in the area, looking up for Houston mens clinic can help you a long way.
Bear in mind that a medical practitioner will require you to commit to the above before they agree to treat you, as not to do so defeats the object. While we advise as a must to seek diagnosis when you have erectile dysfunction it may be that there is no underlying medical condition. If this is the case you may also be advised to follow the advice below, as all of these steps can increase the blood flow where necessary:
- Take more exercise; a Harvard study showed that a half hour walk a day reduces the chances of erectile dysfunction by 40%.
- A rich diet of natural food and cutting out red and processed meat also reduces the chances of suffering from erectile dysfunction.
- Keep an eye on your blood pressure and cholesterol which have an effect on the blood flow.
- Keep in trim as being overweight or obese can result in erectile problems.
If you are diagnosed with a root problem, then the consultant you speak to will be able to recommend the right type of treatment for your erectile dysfunction. One that is becoming more popular thanks to its effectiveness and success is that of Acoustic Wave Therapy (AWT) so now we need to explain what it is, why it is important, and how it can be used for many different root causes of erectile dysfunction.
What is Acoustic Wave Therapy?
AWT – also known as Shockwave Therapy – is a procedure that is widely talked about in medical circles. Basically, it uses a device that emits mild sound waves that travel into the body and act on the blood vessels or other problematic areas. The beauty of AWT is that the frequency of the sound waves can be adjusted.
Without going into too much scientific jargon, this means that it is possible for a clinician to pinpoint the root problem – let’s say restricted blood vessels – and set the AWT device to the precise wavelengths for that problem. Remember that sound travels in waves and is a vibration, so if you imagine the AWT waves hitting the blood vessels they are effectively freeing them of problems.
There is a lot more to it than our simple explanation but suffice to say that this emerging technology is potentially the non-invasive answer not only to erectile dysfunction but also many other medical conditions that it may be suitable for treating. A further benefit is that there are no drugs involved – great, then, for people who either cannot or do not want to ingest chemicals – and no need for anesthetic as there are no incisions.
This may be the answer if you are a younger man who has suddenly noticed a problem in getting and maintaining an erection, and also for older men who are experiencing the problem due to ageing and want to continue a healthy sex life.
Final Words
We have technology to thank for many developments in the world of medicine, and AWT is one of many emerging technologies that use what are actually simple processes to treat common ailments. If you suffer from erectile dysfunction, please see a doctor for diagnosis and then seek the help of a clinic that uses the AWT process to treat the problem.