Affecting 52% of men between the ages of 40 and 70, erectile dysfunction (ED) is a serious male health problem that can negatively affect on a man’s relationships, self-confidence and even work performance. ED (once referred to as impotence) is defined as the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse. Although it is commonly associated with older men, ED can affect men of all ages and is usually a symptom of another health issue.
What are the Signs of ED?
Symptoms of ED may vary, but here are a few of the most common:
- Difficultly having or keeping an erection at least once in every four attempts, or persisting for more than once month.
- Attaining an erection is more difficult in certain sexual positions.
- Erections that are progressively weaker.
- Less frequent, less rigid morning erections.
- Ejaculating more rapidly or with a weaker erection.
How Common is ED?
Because it is such a taboo topic, many men are surprised when they learn that ED is a very common health issue. Here are some findings from the largest-ever study on ED by the Massachusetts Male Aging Study:
- 52% of men between 40 and 70 years of age have some form of ED, whether a mild, moderate or severe case.
- Around 10% of men cannot have an erection at all.
- Most cases of ED are caused by physical problems.
- Although ED can affect all men, the prevalence of ED increases with age.
- 67% of 70-year-old men are affected with ED as are 39% of 40-year-olds.
What Causes ED?
Although most people think that ED is a psychological problem, 90% of ED cases are physical in nature. 70% of the physical cases are vascular (related to the blood) with high cholesterol, diabetes and hypertension among the most common. Erections are created by a rush of blood to the penis which allows it to become hard. Men with vascular or heart problems can have difficulty getting proper circulation to the penis and these diseases can also cause damage to penile arteries and nerves.
About 10% of the causes of ED are of a psychological nature. ED can be caused by anxiety, stress or a fear of failure associated with lovemaking that sends a surge of adrenaline through the body, reducing blood flow to the genitals. Psychological ED can worsen over time and after several episodes of sexual difficulty the body may begin to release adrenaline at just the thought of a sexual encounter. Also, depression can lower libido as well as cause hormonal changes in the body that can affect erectile function. It is also common for anti-depressants to list ED as a side-effect.
Getting Treated for ED is Very Important
As with any medical condition, Boston Medical Group has found that it is best to treat ED promptly. Without treatment, ED can worsen over time and eventually lead to penile atrophy which can permanently affect sexual function. Finally, ED is more than just a sexual problem. A fulfilling sex life can lead to greater satisfaction in your social, family and work life as well.