Erectile dysfunction (ED), whether temporary or long-term, is a problem experienced by millions of men. It can have serious impacts on emotional and mental health, not to mention the damage it can do to romantic relationships.
Even for younger men who are otherwise physically healthy, ED can be a worrying issue in intimate moments where pressure to perform is high. For many, a few lifestyle changes can improve the situation considerably; for others, there may be a hidden cause.
What are the non-medical causes of erectile dysfunction?
Many lifestyle choices and bad habits can impact the ability to get and maintain an erection. Factors that contribute to the issue can be dealt with by making changes and, over time, improving general physical and mental health.
Lifestyle factors that can be mitigated or reduced include:
- Alcohol consumption
- Smoking
- Lack of exercise
- Unhealthy diet
- Poor sleep or sleep hygiene
- Stress and/or mental health issues
NHS guidance recommends changes to diet and exercise routines, reducing alcohol consumption, stress reduction, quitting smoking and maintaining a healthy bodyweight. However, if you already live a healthy lifestyle, then there may be other issues at play.
What are the medical reasons for ED?
There are some medical reasons why a man might be unable to attain or sustain an erection. Below are some of the more common ones.
Cardiovascular disease
Erectile dysfunction can be an early warning sign of a more serious condition impacting blood vessels and the heart, according to research.
ED problems caused by cardiovascular conditions usually begin several years before any myocardial infarction or coronary incident.
Since the blood vessels in the penis are so small, they are the first to feel the effects of vascular compromise. In these cases, a potentially awkward consultation with a medical professional about erections could save your life through early interventions.
Surgeries and trauma to the pelvis
Surgical interventions for prostate cancers and injuries that damage the nerves and blood flow to the penis can cause ED. Additionally, the after-effects of radiotherapy can have a negative impact.
Diabetes mellitus
Left untreated, this serious metabolic condition can cause damage to both nerves and blood vessels, making it harder to achieve an erection. ED is thought to be 3.5 times more prevalent in patients with diabetes mellitus.
Neurological conditions
Diseases such as Parkinson’s and brain bleeds, such as strokes, can cause the nerve signals to the penis to function differently.
Low testosterone
As humans age, testosterone levels drop, lowering libido in a way that can worsen ED. However, there are also conditions where testosterone levels are depleted or the hormone is not produced at all.
What medication can help with ED?
In the UK, there are four licensed oral medications for ED available to help you get the erection you want. These are:
Sildenafil
More commonly known by its brand name Viagra, Sildenafil tablets work by dilating the blood vessels that supply the penis, allowing it to achieve an erection for longer, with the right stimulation, of course. It is also available as a mouth spray.
Tadalafil
Also known as Cialis, this enzyme inhibitor also increases blood flow to the penis. However, it is not usually prescribed unless there is an underlying medical condition such as multiple sclerosis.
Vardenafil
A newer drug than Sildenafil, Vardenafil achieves results by relaxing the muscles of the penis, which allows more blood flow when aroused.
Avanafil
Known by its brand name, Spedra, Avanafil inhibits the phosphodiesterase type 5 enzyme, causing an increase in blood flow to the penis when it is stimulated.
Other medications
Topical gels, which can be applied just before intercourse, such as Eroxon Stimgel, can also be used.
While the newer medications – Vardenafil, Avanafil and Tadalafil – are longer lasting, none of the medications can help achieve an erection unless there is sexual stimulation.
It should be noted that Vardenafil and Avanafil both require a prescription, whereas Sildenafil and Tadalafil can be purchased from a licensed and trusted online pharmacy.
Should you talk to a doctor before buying ED medication?
It’s important to check for any underlying medical issues you may have and any lifestyle changes that can be made before buying erectile dysfunction medication. Booking a consultation with an online pharmacy or your GP can be a good place to start.
A pharmacist or GP can also warn of any potential drug interactions when taking ED medication alongside other medicinal products.
How can you get ED medication discreetly?
Medication to correct erectile dysfunction can be bought over-the-counter at your local pharmacy; however, we all know that a very public chat with a pharmacist can be embarrassing.
Thankfully, registered online pharmacies like us can save you from those awkward red-faced moments and save you money with ED medications at low prices.
Book a consultation and order online for convenient home delivery in discreet packaging.