Top 5 Factors to Reduce Erection Problems
Published 04/15/2015
Updated: 04/15/2015
Erectile dysfunction medications are very popular among men in the United States. It’s estimated that approximately 20 percent of men older than 45 have tried them. However, these medications do have side effects, including vision problems, digestive upset, nasal congestion, and headaches. Fortunately, there are other ways to prevent and treat erectile dysfunction. Here are the top 5 factors to reduce erection problems.
Obesity Research has shown that overweight men are more likely to develop erectile dysfunction. Obese men are also at increased risk for other health problems, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and high blood pressure. These conditions can damage the blood vessels in the penis, leading to erectile dysfunction.
Men with erectile dysfunction should maintain a healthy weight. Follow a nutritious diet and exercise regularly to lose stubborn belly fat. In many cases, weight loss can reduce or eliminate erectile dysfunction symptoms.
Gum disease
Men with gum disease are at increased risk for cardiovascular disease and erectile dysfunction. Bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream and induce inflammation. Swollen blood vessels can block blood flow to the penis, which may cause erection problems.
It’s important to maintain good oral hygiene. If you have erectile dysfunction, you should brush their teeth two times per day for at least two minutes per session. Floss between your teeth on a daily basis. Visit your dentist every 6 months for a professional cleaning.
Cardiovascular disease Studies have demonstrated that there may be a link between cardiovascular disease and erectile dysfunction. Cardiovascular disease can lead to plaque buildup and narrow arteries. Poor circulation due to cardiovascular disease can inhibit your ability to get a firm erection.
Men with erectile dysfunction should see a doctor for a complete medical evaluation to rule out underlying health problems. If you have cardiovascular disease, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes or prescription medications. Getting early treatment for cardiovascular disease could save your life and improve your sex life.
High blood pressure Men with high blood pressure are at increased risk for erectile dysfunction. High blood pressure can damage blood vessels, reduce blood flow, and prevent erections. Some medications used to treat high blood pressure can also cause erectile dysfunction symptoms.
It’s important to get high blood pressure under control with lifestyle changes or medications. Many men with high blood pressure can benefit from dietary changes, regular exercise, and weight loss. Your doctor may also be able to recommend high blood pressure medication that doesn’t trigger erectile dysfunction.
Sleep apnea People with sleep apnea have trouble breathing during sleep. This condition can deprive your body of oxygen. Sleep apnea has been linked to serious health issues, including high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. It can also lead to erectile dysfunction.
Sleep apnea may be triggered by obesity, alcohol consumption, sedatives, and smoking. Lifestyle changes can help many people with sleep apnea. Other treatments may include a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine or oral appliance therapy. With treatment, you may be able to eliminate sleep apnea and erection problems.
Faith Coats
Dr. Faith Coats is a Naturopathic Medical Doctor from a rural area in Northern California. She was always interested in integrative medicine due to her “holistic” upbringing. While completing her prerequisites for medical school, she became unhealthy and obese. She then took control of her health and was able to lose 100 pounds but struggled to maintain her weight loss. She graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Cellular Molecular Biology, as well as, minors in chemistry and dance from Humboldt State University. Before applying to medical school she took a gap year and worked as a scribe in the ER. It was through that experience that she realized that there is a real need for preventative medicine. This is when she discovered Naturopathic Medicine which blends her love of evidence based medicine with traditional therapies. She then transitioned to Arizona where she attended Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine. Throughout the 4 years of medical school she struggledRead more
