A doctor has shared five changes that young men should make with erectile dysfunction cases reportedly on the rise.
The number of men under 35 seeking to use the Boots Online Doctor Erectile Dysfunction Treatment service has risen by 40 per cent year-on-year.
Now, I'm sure that's something you or I don't need to be worried about, it's not crotch rot at least, but there's nothing to be ashamed of if you do, and I'm not exactly going to tell you to stop reading.
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It turns out there are five simple changes you can make if you want to avoid suffering from impotence in the future.
What is Erectile Dysfunction (ED)?
Erectile dysfunction (ED), also known as impotence, is the persistent inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual intercourse.
While ladies recently revealed some of the things they expect from the bedroom and a fair few weren't too bothered about having an orgasm, an erection is pretty much a necessity for lads to bring to the table - or the bed.
It's most common in men over 40, but it seems as if numbers in younger blokes are also on the rise.
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What are the symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction?
Well, unlike a lot of medical terms, this one is pretty much exactly what it says on the tin. It can manifest itself when you cannot get an erection, cannot sustain one for long enough or a reduction in firmness.
Some men also experience a drop in libido.
What causes Erectile Dysfunction?
This is where the doctor's advice comes in. Dr Megha Pancholi is a GP and sexual health lead at Boots Online Doctor and she's explained what causes ED and shared some advice on how couples can address this common condition.
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She said: “ED is a common condition, particularly in men over 40, but we are seeing that it is increasingly affecting younger men too. We also know that some men may struggle with performance anxiety related to ED, especially if it’s something they’ve experienced before.
“Whatever their age, most men experience failing to get or keep an erection at some point in their lives, usually caused by everyday stress, tiredness, feelings of anxiousness or drinking too much alcohol, which can reduce blood flow, alter nerve signals and cause hormonal imbalance to the penis.
“It is completely normal to experience ED from time to time and is generally nothing to worry about. However, erectile problems can be an early sign of conditions like cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure and diabetes. It’s important to speak to your GP to help understand the cause and check for any underlying health conditions you may need support with.
“In most cases, ED can be treated with over-the-counter or prescription medicines. There are also some lifestyle changes that could help improve blood flow and help those experiencing erectile dysfunction.”
How to get rid of Erectile Dysfunction?
There are five simple methods to help get your get back to your best in the bedroom.
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Dr Megha suggests that: "Getting active can help too, but it’s important to speak to your GP before starting any new forms of exercise if you have an existing medical condition or have not exercised in a while. Evidence also suggests that regularly performing kegel exercises can strengthen the pelvic floor – a muscular band that stretches from the tailbone to the pubic bone – and help with ED.”
Stopping activities such as smoking and drinking can also have a huge benefit on your crown jewels.
Dr Megha added: "Smokers are more likely to be impacted by ED because of the damage to blood vessels smoking can cause. Some research shows stopping smoking can improve erectile function and the sooner you stop smoking, the better the outcome.
“If you’re experiencing ED and you drink, it’s a good idea to reduce how much alcohol you consume. Avoid drinking more than 14 units of alcohol a week.”
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It's not rocket science as they say, as she finally recommends managing stress and eating a healthier diet, to ensure that your schlong stays long.
Topics: Sex and Relationships, Health, Mental Health
James Moorhouse