Erectile dysfunction (ED) or impotence is the inability of a man to achieve an erection or to complete intercourse. This condition affects an estimated 30 million Americans. The study also showed that former smokers among patients with high blood pressure are 11 times more likely to be impotent than non-smokers.
Spangler said smoking has "both acute and chronic effects on erectile physiology." In both human and animal studies, smoking inhibits the ability to achieve a full erection.
Erectile dysfunction generally affects older men and is often caused by disorders that affect the circulation, including diabetes. Smoking is also known to accelerate atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries. When the blood vessels in the pelvic area are narrowed, that contributes to reduced penile blood flow.
One of the best ways to treat impotence is to prevent it in the first place. Circulatory problems caused by diabetes can be kept at bay by keeping the diabetes at bay. Blood sugar needs to be kept in tight control. If you are a diabetic and smoke you are putting yourself at even more risk, not only of impotence but of more serious disorders like stroke and heart disease.
Additional causes of impotence are alcohol intake, epilepsy depression and some psychosis. There are also a number of medications that can cause impotence. Any man that experiences sexual dysfunction after starting a new medication should immediately talk with his doctor about this possible side effect. This all points to lifestyle changes being the key to having a healthy and enjoyable life. So what can you do to help prevent or decrease the incidence of sexual dysfunction in your life?
- Stop Smoking
Yes, it is easier said than done, but there has never been a better time to stop than now. There are numerous aids available to help you quit this life-threatening habit, including patches, gums and medications. You might want to check out the About Smoking Cessation site for help. - Control Diabetes
If you are a diabetic the best way to prevent complications such as impotence is to keep your blood sugar in tight control. Work with your physician to work out the best plan for medications, diet and exercise that will help keep your blood sugar in control. Be sure to get a yearly flu shot. Preventing infection can help keep those blood sugars in control. For more information on controlling diabetes check out the About Diabetes site. - Reduce Alcohol Intake
Alcohol can increase sexual desire but can also reduce sexual performance. If you have a problem with alcohol abuse you can seek professional help. The About Alcoholism site has a lot of great information on programs that can help you to stop. - Reduce Stress
Stress can affect your love life. Stress can also increase blood pressure that has been shown to be a frequent cause of impotence. Relaxation techniques can be learned and employed to reduce stress. Exercise and techniques such as yoga can also help reduce stress. Check out the About Stress Management site for more information and help. - Manage Depression
Undiagnosed depression accounts for many cases of impotence every year. New advances in therapy and medications can help to reduce depression. Talk to your physician if you are having any symptoms that may be related to depression such as excessive fatigue, inability to sleep, sleeping too much, decreased concentration or lack of initiative. About's Depression site has all the latest information on medications and treatments.
Adults can maintain an active and enjoyable sex life well into their later years by taking an active role in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. It is never to late to begin.
