It’s the subject no bloke wants to talk or even hear about
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a medical condition in which a man consistently experiences difficulty in achieving or maintaining an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse. Its likelihood increases with age, although it can affect men of any age.
The condition affects an estimated 150 million men worldwide and more than a million men in Australia. “However, these numbers are likely under-reported,” says GP Dr Roy Mariathas, “as many men may feel embarrassed or unwilling to discuss their symptoms.”
According to Dr Mariathas, one study found 30 percent of men surveyed were suffering from ED and were untreated but wanted treatment, and a large proportion were wanting their doctor to ask them about it.
“It’s going both ways,” Dr Mariathas says. “That is, patients are not talking about it, and it’s not being asked about. And there’s plenty to make one anxious about not performing. So how do we figure out the shame that comes attached to the problem? How do we buck the trend? We all must do just that: say, ‘Buck it! I’m just going to have this conversation.’”
ED can be caused by a variety of factors. Common causes include heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity along with stress, anxiety and depression. Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption and a sedentary lifestyle can increase the risk too. The emotional impact of ED can also be significant, leading to feelings of embarrassment, frustration and a lack of self-confidence. This can strain relationships, as both partners may experience stress and dissatisfaction.
10 top tips for dealing with ED
1. Consult a healthcare professional. Seek guidance from a qualified healthcare provider to identify the underlying causes of ED and develop a tailored treatment plan.
2. Address underlying health conditions. Managing conditions like heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure can improve erectile function.
3. Quit smoking. Smoking can reduce blood flow, making it harder to achieve an erection. Quitting can improve overall health and erectile function.
4. Limit alcohol consumption. Excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to ED. Reducing alcohol intake can help improve erectile function.
5. Maintain a healthy weight. Obesity increases the risk of developing ED. Losing weight can help improve erectile function and overall health.
6. Exercise regularly. Engaging in regular physical activity, such as aerobic exercise or resistance training, can improve blood flow and erectile function.
7. Manage stress and anxiety. Stress and anxiety can contribute. Practising relaxation techniques, such as deep-breathing exercises, can help alleviate stress and improve erectile function.
8. Improve sleep habits. Poor sleep quality can contribute to ED. Aim for seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night to support overall health and erectile function.
9. Communicate with your partner. Open communication can help alleviate stress and improve the emotional aspects of your relationship.
10. Consider treatment options. Medication is the first line of therapy for tackling ED. The most commonly prescribed medications for ED are called PDE5 inhibitors. They work by targeting the enzyme responsible for the contraction of blood vessels in the penis. This improves blood flow, and helps men maintain firm erections throughout sex.
Pilot is an Australian telehealth company that connects patients with qualified healthcare professionals. After completing an online assessment, these healthcare professionals evaluate their condition and, if appropriate, prescribe a suitable treatment plan. Dr Mariathas says meds offered by Pilot doctors have helped improve the sex lives of 94 percent of patients. As with any medication, potential side effects can occur, and it’s essential to discuss these with your healthcare provider. Visit pilot.com.au/erectile-dysfunction for more details.
