Men’s sexual health is a taboo in societies around the world. Consequently, many males overlook symptoms of sexual dysfunction, which leads to serious psychological repercussions. A male sexual disorder seen as particularly demeaning is Erectile Dysfunction.
Erectile dysfunction (ED) in males refers to a condition where males have persistent problems in developing or maintaining erections or have a low libido. Some instances of failing to develop an erection may be normal, so ED is characterized only by repeated issues in sexual activity. Longevity Live Partner Content.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore it
ED can seriously impact your psychological health by contributing to a sense of insecurity and worthlessness. At the same time, it can make your partner feel rejected and doubt themselves. The stress and anxiety resulting from ED will contribute back to making the disorder more serious.
Erectile dysfunction can also be a symptom of serious diseases, including, but not limited to, diabetes, heart diseases, kidney diseases, and blood pressure issues. You’re also at a high risk of stroke or heart attack soon after you develop the disorder, especially if you’re middle-aged.
A Lifestyle That Beats ED
The risk of developing ED increases as you age or as your health deteriorates. Erectile dysfunction is closely related to your general health. A healthy lifestyle is the best preventative measure you can take, such as the following:
- A Mediterranean diet focuses on less-processed foods like whole grains, fruits, fish, and olive oil and reduces the intake of saturated fats, sugar, and meat.
- Exercising, no matter your weight, improves blood circulation and enhances the heart’s health.
- Maintaining the proper weight. Obesity is especially problematic in regards to erectile functioning.
- Limiting alcohol, smoking, and drugs. Such substances are among the leading causes of ED in the world today.
- Consulting with a doctor at the first signs of bodily trouble.
Men’s mental and emotional health has long been a stigma, though now these barriers are breaking. Mental health issues can exacerbate ED as well. You need to take care of your mind. This can include:
- Open up to your partner about issues you may be facing in your life. Conversations around weakness, stressors, and insecurities are an integral part of a relationship; the more you suppress them, the harder they’ll take a toll on you and your partner.
- Maintaining a social circle you can converse easily with.
- See a therapist if you notice chronic patterns in your behavior, feelings, and thoughts. For example, sadness, anger, and sleeplessness can all be symptoms of more severe psychological diseases and can contribute to ED as well.
These measures are both prevention and cure mechanisms for erectile dysfunction. Along with these steps, your doctors will prescribe a medicine to you to aid you in developing and maintaining erections. Please note that the drugs mentioned below do not treat ED in the long run: they only help with erections when you take them.
Medication for ED
Photo by Sharon McCutcheon on Unsplash
If you suspect you have ED, go to a doctor immediately rather than getting the first medicine you find. Your doctor will likely prescribe a Phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitor, as these drugs treat ED effectively. These include Avanafil (Stendra), Sildenafil (Viagra), Vardenafil (Levitra), and Tadalafil (Cialis). They work similarly but have specific differences. Let’s go through them individually, so you can see which one you’d prefer and discuss your preference with your doctor. Do not take different PDE 5 inhibitors, and stick to what your doctor prescribes.
1. Sildenafil (Viagra)
PDE5 inhibitors all work by increasing blood flow to the penis when you’re sexually stimulated. You’ll have to take 50 mg of Sildenafil on an empty stomach, optimally around an hour before indulging in sexual intercourse. Do not take this drug more than once every 24 hours. Your doctor may recommend an even lower frequency, depending on your health and the use of other medicines.
2. Avanafil (Stendra)
Avanafil works similarly to Sildenafil, but it works faster. You can take 100 mg around 30 minutes before sex, with or without food. It can last for up to six hours. The drug will only increase blood flow to the penis when you’re sexually aroused. Do not take it more than once a day.
3. Vardenafil (Levitra)
Vardenafil is a more potent drug, and you can take as low as 10 mg of Vardenafil an hour before intercourse on a full or empty stomach. It is effective for four to five hours or more. Vardenafil now comes in two forms, with the newest one requiring you to put it on your tongue and let it dissolve there without taking any liquid. Prices for the drugs vary per brand name and area. You can find information about Vardenafil cost in Canada in the attached link, and navigate the site to look for the costs of drugs used in ED treatment.
4. Cialis
Cialis is different from the drugs mentioned above and can last in the bloodstream for up to 24 hours. Doctors can also prescribe this drug for daily use, with the recommended dosage being 5 mg.
End Note
Erectile dysfunction is curable through a change in your lifestyle, and medication will help you in regaining your bodily functions along the way. With the right help, you’ll beat this disorder fast. Never purchase any of the drugs we mentioned without a prescription because the consequences of taking them with the wrong health condition or coupled with certain other drugs can be as severe as getting a heart attack.
This post is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult with your physician and let them know your history of diseases, medicines, and allergies. Make sure you aren’t purchasing counterfeit drugs, and get medical assistance immediately if you note side effects, especially if they’re severe or persistent.
