The inability to get or keep an erection firm enough to have sexual intercourse is known as erectile dysfunction. It is also sometimes referred to as impotence. Erectile dysfunction isn’t uncommon, as many men experience it during times of stress. Frequent dysfunction can be a sign of health problems though and might require treatment. It can also be a sign of something more serious and may need to be addressed by a professional.
The symptoms might include trouble getting and keeping an erection and reduced sexual desire.
Prevention tips
- Eating healthy
A diet that is bad for a man’s heart could also lead to erectile dysfunction. So eating a healthy and balanced diet, which consists of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, heart-healthy fats, including nuts and olive oil, fish and wine, especially red wine, can help in preventing erectile dysfunction. - Maintaining a healthy weight
Being overweight can cause many health problems, including type 2 diabetes, which can cause nerve damage throughout the body. When diabetes affects the nerves that supply blood to the penis, it can result in this condition. - Maintaining blood pressure and cholesterol
Keeping a regular check and maintaining blood pressure and cholesterol levels help in the prevention of this condition. This is because high blood pressure and high cholesterol can damage blood vessels, including those that circulate blood to the penis, eventually leading to erectile dysfunction. - Avoid drinking excess alcohol
Drinking of alcohol can cause liver damage, nerve damage and other conditions such as interfering with the normal levels of sex hormones. - Exercise regularly
Running, swimming and other forms of aerobic exercises help to prevent erectile dysfunction. These activities improve circulation, keep diabetes and blood sugars at bay and improve blood circulation to the penis. - Keep a tab on testosterone
Even in a healthy man, testosterone levels begin to drop sharply around the age of 50 years and above. So one must keep a regular check on the testosterone level to prevent the dysfunction. - Avoid anabolic steroids
These drugs are often abused by athletes and bodybuilders. They can shrink the testicles and sap their ability to create testosterone. - Quit smoking
Smoking cigarettes can harm the blood vessels and curb the blood flow to the penis. Additionally, nicotine makes the blood vessels contract, which can hamper blood flow. - Avoid taking risks
Penile injuries that occur during sex also cause erectile dysfunction. Taking time off and avoiding certain positions might help. - Curb stress
Psychological stress boosts levels of the hormone adrenaline, which makes blood vessels contract, which can be bad news for erections. - Start the Kegel exercise
One form of exercise that seems helpful is Kegel’s exercise. This involves repeatedly contracting and relaxing muscles in the pelvis. Kegel’s can be helpful for men and women suffering from incontinence and helps strengthen. But there is no concrete evidence that it prevents erectile dysfunction. - Yoga and meditation
Yoga and meditation can help one feel stress-free. It also repairs hormonal imbalances and strengthens the nervous and circulatory system.
Keeping the above tips in mind can help you perform well during intercourse and keep erectile dysfunction away. But if you still notice issues, do consult a doctor right away.
