Erection problems can be incredibly uncomfortable and even embarrassing for a man to confront. It is estimated that up to a third of men over the age of 18 deal with difficulties achieving or maintaining an erection. As traumatic as this physical limitation can be, don’t lose hope as there are possible treatments and solutions that can help.
Erection 101
Before diving into the various treatments and advice on overcoming erection issues, it is important to understand the basics of an erection and the many potential causes. Firstly, an erection is an involuntary bodily process which entails the penis in a male becoming engorged with blood during times of sexual arousal or other excitement. The majority of erections are the result of psychological stimulation, although physical touches can also do the trick.
The arteries of the penis become engorged with blood, which is pumped in by the heart; the veins of the penis are then compressed, thus preventing the blood from draining away. A sustained erection is achieved when a man is able to maintain the blood in these arteries for a prolonged period of time.
Although erections are normal and a part of life, if you are unable to achieve an erection, this could be a sign of erectile dysfunction or ED – and for some older men, this is a frequent problem. ED not only affects physical intimacy but can lead to an emotional toll. It is important to seek help from a healthcare professional if you are experiencing ED, as there are solutions available that could significantly improve your sex life and overall happiness.
Causes of Erection Issues
There are several potential causes of ED, some of which are medical, while others can be psychological. Potential physical causes include cardiovascular health problems, hormonal imbalances, nervous system issues, using certain medications, or damage to the urethra or penile nerves.
If you have an underlying medical condition, it could be causing a lack of blood flow to the penis – making it difficult to get an erection or sustain one. On the other hand, psychological issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, guilt, concerns over performance, or a traumatic experience can also lead to ED. It is vital to identify the potential cause of your erection issues, as the solution will vary depending on the underlying cause.
Treatments for Erection Problems
Thankfully, there are numerous medical solutions that can help men to overcome their difficulties in achieving or maintaining an erection. The most common treatments include lifestyle adjustments, medications, therapies, penile injections, and in severe cases, even surgery.
Firstly, making lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, managing stress levels, exercising regularly, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption and eating a healthy diet will help to improve overall cardiovascular health, and thereby reduce the risk of ED.
Medications such as Viagra (Sildenafil) and Cialis (Tadalafil) can also be prescribed to help treat ED. These are designed to help to increase blood flow to the penis, resulting in an erection. However, both Viagra and Cialis can come with potential side effects and should only be taken after consulting a doctor.
Therapy sessions with a counsellor or psychoanalyst can help to uncover and address any psychological issues that could be causing ED. Similarly, penile injections can help to address psychological issues that might be interfering with erections.
Finally, if the above treatments are ineffective or the issue is more severe, surgery can be considered. This can involve the surgeon making a tiny incision in the penis to implant a device to help keep it erect or a vein bypass to increase blood flow.
Conclusion
Despite the embarrassment, it is vital to be honest about any issues that you’re experiencing in the bedroom. In a majority of cases, erectile dysfunction or other erection issues can be treated and overcome with the help of a healthcare professional. So don’t hesitate to express your concerns to your doctor so that you can work together to develop a solution that works for you.
