What is erectile dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction (ED), also known as impotence, refers to the inability to get and maintain an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. ED is a common condition estimated to affect about 30 million men in the United States alone.
Some key points about erectile dysfunction include:
- ED can be caused by both physical and psychological factors. Common physical causes include diabetes, heart disease, obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and prostate cancer treatment. Psychological causes may include stress, anxiety, depression, and relationship problems.
- There are various treatment options available for ED, including oral medications like Viagra and Cialis, injections, implants, pumps, and counseling. Treatment aims to address the underlying cause.
- ED does not have to be a natural part of aging. While prevalence increases with age, around a quarter of cases occur in men under 40 years old. Consulting a doctor can help determine if ED is due to normal aging or another treatable cause.
- Lifestyle changes can help prevent or manage ED in many cases. Getting exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol, quitting smoking, and reducing stress have all been shown to reduce the risk of ED.
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