Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is one of the common health conditions recorded among men. In fact, According to the Urology Care Foundation, it is estimated that 30 million Americans experience ED. Many patients in our Chiropractic Office at Elizabeth City, NC have reported how erectile dysfunction has affected their sex drive, and how it resulted in depression and low self-esteem.

So it is important that we discuss this problem, which is common in men.

What is Erectile Dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is simply the inability to get or maintain a firm enough erection to have sexual intercourse. This condition is sometimes referred to as “impotence.”  

Many men experience ED during times of stress, but when it becomes frequent, it is a clear sign of health problems that need medical attention.

An erection is normally achieved when there is an increased blood flow into your penis. And this happens when a man is sexually excited. The muscles in your penis relax and blood flows into your penile arteries, resulting in the filling of two chambers inside the penis. This makes the penis grow hard.

What are the causes of Erectile Dysfunction?

There are many possible causes of ED, including physical and emotional conditions. However, the common causes of ED include:

• Cardiovascular disease
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Kidney disease
• Anxiety
• Stress
• Depression
• High cholesterol
• Low testosterone levels
• Increased age
• Sleep disorders
• Certain prescription medication

Prescription Medications that Can Cause Erectile Dysfunction

Numerous prescription medications have been implicated in erectile dysfunction. That’s why it is important to always consult your doctor before changing or stopping your medications.

Some medications that can cause erectile dysfunction include:

• Heart medications such as digoxin
• Drugs that work on the central nervous system, including amphetamines and sleeping pills
• Drugs to control high blood pressure
• Anxiety treatments
• Some diuretics
• Prostate treatment drugs
• Opioid painkillers
• Antidepressants, including monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Tricyclic antidepressants, and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
• Anticholinergic drugs
• Some cancer drugs
• The peptic ulcer medication cimetidine
• Hormone drugs

Natural Solutions for Erectile dysfunction

There are many treatment options available for ED such as drugs, surgical treatments, and more. But the natural solutions are advisable to avoid unpleasant side effects.

Here are some natural solutions that have been used to treat erectile dysfunction:

Exercises

Certain exercises have been shown to help with erectile dysfunction. You can try the following:

• Kegel exercises: These exercises involve simple movements that help to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles. Start by stopping your pee midstream to identify your pelvic floor muscles. Contract these muscles for at least 3 seconds, and then release them. You can do this exercise three times a day, and 10 to 20 times in a row.
• Aerobic exercise: You can try moderate to vigorous exercises like swimming and running. These exercises increase your blood flow and improve your overall health
• Yoga: This helps to relax your mind and ease every form of stress and anxiety.

Eating a healthy diet

You can prevent or treat erectile dysfunction by eating a healthy diet. This helps to maintain your blood vessels and increase your blood flow.

• Eat whole grains, fruits, and vegetables
• Limit your consumption of processed sugars, full-fat dairy, and red meats
• Limit or quit alcohol consumption

Natural herbs

You can improve erectile dysfunction by using certain herbs, including:

• Asparagus racemosus
• Ginseng, such as Korean ginseng
• Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)
• Yohimbe
• Horny goat weed

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a traditional treatment measure that involves inserting needed at specific parts of the skin. This method works for erectile dysfunction through nerve stimulation, and it has an effect on the release of neurotransmitters.

Prostatic massage

A prostatic massage is an effective form of massage used for ED. During this method, the practitioner massages the tissue in and around the groin to promote the flow of blood to your penis.

You may need to undergo this massage several times a week, but it all depends on your symptoms.

In conclusion, erectile dysfunction is one of the most common health conditions in men. It is sometimes called impotence and its risk increases with age. There are several factors that can cause ED, including prescription medications. This condition can lead to depression, lower, sex drive, low self-esteem, and stress.

Several treatment measures are available for ED, including medical interventions, lifestyle changes, and natural remedies.

We however recommend the natural solutions listed above. However, you should consult your doctor before using any of those methods.