You’ve probably been told erectile dysfunction only happens as men get older – but that’s not true. Erectile Dysfunction can affect men of any age, and it’s far more common than people realise.
In this latest video, our clinical Pharmacist Abraham Jacobson Khodadi shows you what’s really happening in the body, the most common causes, how lifestyle changes can improve it, and what to know about treatments!
What is erectile dysfunction and why it happens?
Erectile dysfunction, or ED, means regularly having difficulty getting or maintaining an erection firm enough for sex. An erection happens when the brain sends signals through the spinal cord to open up the blood vessels in the penis, allowing them to fill with blood.
If blood flow is restricted or the nerve signal is disrupted, that process doesn’t work as well – and that’s when ED occurs. The most common physical causes include high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, or narrowing of blood vessels.
Psychological factors like stress, anxiety, depression, or relationship issues can also play a huge role – and in younger men, that’s often the main cause. Even common medications such as antidepressants or blood pressure tablets can contribute.
This is why it’s so important always speak to your healthcare professional if struggling with ED so they can find the cause!
Erectile dysfunction lifestyle changes that help
For many men, lifestyle changes can make a noticeable difference.
Let’s look at what helps most:
1. Exercise regularly.
Anything that boosts your heart health improves erectile function – studies show brisk walking just 30 minutes a day can reduce ED symptoms by up to 40%.
2. Maintain a healthy weight.
Excess belly fat raises oestrogen and lowers testosterone, which affects libido and performance. Even a small reduction in waist size helps.
3. Quit smoking.
Nicotine constricts blood vessels and damages the lining of arteries, directly reducing blood flow to the penis.
4. Limit alcohol.
Regular heavy drinking lowers testosterone and dulls nerve sensitivity.5. Manage stress and sleep well.
Chronic stress increases cortisol – a hormone that interferes with testosterone production and sexual response. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night.
Erectile dysfunction treatment options
When lifestyle changes aren’t enough, doctors may prescribe medications called PDE-5 inhibitors – these work by relaxing the blood vessels in the penis to allow more blood flow when you’re aroused.
The most common one is sildenafil, the active ingredient in Viagra.
It’s usually taken about one hour before sexual activity, and works best on an empty stomach, because food – especially fatty meals – can delay absorption.
The effect typically lasts for around four hours, and you shouldn’t take more than one dose in 24 hours.
Possible side effects include headache, flushing, blocked nose, dizziness, or mild stomach upset – I’ve listed a full breakdown of side effects and safety information in the description below.
When to seek medical advice
If ED happens often, it’s worth getting checked.
Sometimes it’s an early warning sign of heart disease or diabetes because the blood vessels in the penis are smaller and show problems first.
So, always speak with a qualified healthcare professional – don’t ignore it. I will leave more information in the description on seeking medical advice be sure to read it.
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