If you’re struggling with erectile dysfunction (ED), you’re definitely not alone. Erectile dysfunction options should be discussed be you with your doctor.
This common condition affects as many as 30 million men in the United States, and while it’s more common in older adults, it can affect men of any age, with about 10 percent of men experiencing ED every decade. The good news is that effective treatment options can help return your sex life to the right path.
ED drugs are usually first -choice solutions, but there are several options and it’s hard to figure out which one is right for you. The most commonly prescribed ED medicine is phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors that work by increasing blood flow to the penis.
These include:
What is erectile dysfunction and who does it affect?
Erectile dysfunction is the persistent inability to achieve or maintain an erection firm enough for satisfactory sexual performance. It is a complex disorder that can have both physical and psychological causes and affects more than 18% of men of all ages in the United States.
Although ED is more common in men over 40, it can affect men of any age. Risk factors include cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, certain medications, stress, and psychological problems such as anxiety and depression.Lifestyle factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and lack of exercise can also contribute to ED.
It is important to remember that occasional difficulty getting or maintaining an erection is normal and not always a red flag. However, if ED is a persistent problem, it can cause significant pain for you and your partner and affect your quality of life.
The Most Effective ED Treatment Options by Age Group
The best treatment for ED depends on the cause of the problem, as well as your personal preferences and medical history. Here are some of the most effective options, broken down by age group:
Suitable for men in their 20s and 30s
- Lifestyle changes: Quitting smoking, cutting back on alcohol, getting regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight can improve overall health and sexual function.
- Address psychological causes: Counseling or sex therapy can help address issues like anxiety, stress, and relationship problems.
- PDE5 inhibitors: Drugs such as Cialis (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), vardenafil (Levitra), and avanafil (Standela) are commonly used in younger men with ED.
Suitable for men in their 40s and 50s
- PDE5 inhibitors: These drugs are still the first line of treatment for many men in this age group.
- Testosterone replacement therapy: Low testosterone levels can cause ED.
- If blood tests reveal a deficiency, alternative treatments may be recommended.
- Penis injection: Medicines that increase blood flow can be administered directly into the penis before sexual activity.
- Vacuum erectile equipment: These mechanical pumps cause an erection by inhaling blood in the penis.
For men 60 and older
- PDE5 inhibitors: These drugs are still an option, but dosage adjustments may be needed.
- Penile implants: Surgical insertion of inflatable or malleable rods can help men who do not respond to medication or cannot safely use medication.
- Low -level shock wave treatment: This treatment uses sound waves to stimulate the growth of new blood vessels in the penis.
Talk to ED treatment with your doctor
Many men are worried or hesitant to create an erectile problem, but a fair conversation is the key to discovering their healthcare providers. They can help determine what’s causing your ED and recommend the safest, most effective treatment plan for you.
Be prepared to discuss your medical history, current medications, and lifestyle habits. Your doctor may also have a physical examination and order a blood test to control diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and low testosterone hormones.
Remember that EDS is a very common and treated condition. Using the correct method, most men can overcome the difficulties of the erection and enjoy a healthy and satisfying sex life.
What is the best ED treatment method for your age and situation?
At the end of the day, the most effective ED treatment is the one that meets your specific needs and fits your lifestyle. Your doctor can help you weigh the pros and cons of each option based on your age, health, and the underlying cause of your erectile difficulties.
For example, if you are a man in your 30s with no underlying health conditions, your doctor may recommend starting with oral medications such as sildenafil (Viagra) or tadalafil (Cialis). These medications are generally well tolerated and can be taken as needed before sexual activity.
However, if you have tried oral medications without success or if you have a medical condition that prevents them, other options may be more suitable. Penile injections or suppositories may be effective for men who do not respond to oral medications. These treatments provide direct medicines to the penis and upright within minutes.
For the elderly or people with more complex health problems, mechanical devices (such as vacuum pumps or penil implants) may be the best choice. Vacuum erection devices work by creating a vacuum around the penis, which draws blood into the penis to create an erection.
Penile implants, although more invasive, offer a permanent solution for men who cannot otherwise achieve an erection. Lifelong factors can also play an important role in ED therapy. If you smoke, obese or not physical activity, your doctor may recommend changing your lifestyle other than other therapies.
Quitting smoking, losing weight, and getting regular exercise can improve overall health and sexual function. Psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, and relationship problems can also contribute to ED.
If these are a concern, your doctor may suggest counseling or sex therapy to address underlying emotional or interpersonal problems. The bottom line is that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution for ED.
The best treatment plan is customized according to your personal needs and the environment. By working closely with your healthcare providers, you can find a way to restore your sexual function and improve the quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions About Erectile Dysfunction Treatment
- How common is erectile dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction affects millions of men worldwide, and its prevalence increases with age. But it’s important to note that ED can affect men of all ages and is not an inevitable part of aging.
- What causes erectile dysfunction?
ED can have physical and psychological causes. Common physical causes include cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, and certain medications. Psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, and depression can also contribute to ED. In many cases, it is a combination of physical and psychological problems.
- How is erectile dysfunction diagnosed?
To diagnose ED, your healthcare providers usually perform a detailed medical history, do physical examinations and order blood tests to control a possible health condition. They may also ask about your sexual history and any medications you are taking.
- What are the most effective treatments for erectile dysfunction?
The most effective treatment for ED depends on the underlying cause and personal preference. Common options include:
- Oral medications: PDE5 inhibitors, such as Cialis (Virasteel), tadalafil (Cialis), vardenafil (Levitra), and avanafil (Standela), are often the first line of treatment.
- Testosterone replacement therapy: Replacement therapy may be recommended for men with low testosterone levels.
- Penile injections: Medications that increase blood flow can be injected directly into the penis before sexual intercourse.
- Vacuum erection devices: These mechanical pumps create an erection by drawing blood into the penis.
- Penile implants: Surgical insertion of inflatable or malleable rods can help men who don’t respond to other treatments.
- Does insurance cover erectile dysfunction treatment?
Emergency coverage varies by insurance plan. Some plans may cover oral drugs or penila injections, and other plans may not apply. It is best to contact your insurance provider to determine the content of your particular plan.
- How can I improve my erectile function naturally?
Lifestyle changes can often improve erectile function, especially if erectile dysfunction is related to modifiable risk factors. These include:
- quit smoking
- reduce alcohol consumption
- exercise regularly
- maintain a healthy weight
- manage stress and anxiety
- When should I see a doctor about erectile dysfunction?
If you are still having trouble getting or keeping an erection, be sure to talk to your doctor. This is especially true when ED causes significant suffering or relationship problems. Your doctor can help determine the basic cause and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.
At Boost Health Clinic we offer a variety of safe, effective treatment options based on your individual needs and preferences. Don’t let ED continue to hold you back.
Here you can read more about erectile dysfunction. Here you can read research from the National Institute of Health.