Erectile dysfunction, by definition, is a condition characterized by an inability to achieve or maintain an erection firm enough to engage in sexual intercourse. Unfortunately, erectile dysfunction, also known as ED, affects a large proportion of the male population in the U.S. That’s the takeaway from several studies, including one published by the Urology Care Foundation. It revealed that an estimated 30 million men struggle with ED. For many men, having ED affects them physically, psychologically, and emotionally. It can even put a strain on their marriage or the romantic relationship that they have with a significant other due to lack of intimacy. One study from Divorce.com, an online resource for couples seeking contested or uncontested divorces without lawyers, found that nearly 75% of sexless marriages end in divorce.
What Causes Erectile Dysfunction?
Multiple things can open the door to ED for men. Some underlying chronic health conditions that are to blame for ED include heart disease, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, multiple sclerosis (MS), hypogonadism, and an enlarged prostate. Mental health disorders can also play a role, the most common being anxiety, depression, and stress. Lastly, poor lifestyle choices, such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and substance abuse, can give rise to ED. Fortunately, once men, with the help of a physician, can pinpoint the cause of their struggles with ED, there are treatments that can help.
Erectile Dysfunction Treatments
For many men, addressing and treating an underlying mental health or physical condition can put an end to their struggles with ED. The same holds for ending poor lifestyle habits, such as smoking and drinking excessively. For others, phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitors are the answer. These drugs, which are FDA-approved to treat ED, include the following:
- Cialis
- Levitra
- Stendra
- Viagra
Get the Help You Need To Overcome ED Today
Many things can cause erectile dysfunction, and over time, it can upend a man’s life in multiple ways. To learn more about diagnosing and treating ED, contact Summit Lifestyle Medicine of Maryville, a medical group well-versed in the treatment of erectile dysfunction in Maryville, IL today.
