As you age, you may experience various changes in your body that can sometimes prove challenging to deal with. You may be prone to back pains and aches from losing your skin’s elasticity. However, the changes don’t end there.
Some men also experience erectile dysfunction (ED) as they age. Rest assured that there are now several ways to cope with the changes you are experiencing. This article aims to highlight what you can expect and how you can cope with ED as brought about by aging.
What to Expect
- Prevalence
One of the things that you can expect when it comes to aging and ED is that the prevalence of this condition increases with age. Several studies show that about 40% of men at age 40 experience some form of ED, and this percentage increases by about 10% per decade. Rest assured that there are now pills that you can take, such as Viagra, to help manage this condition. You can order viagra online for a fraction of the cost, provided you have an appropriate prescription. In this case, it is best to consult a medical professional to assess your needs and obtain a tailored treatment based on your specific condition.
- Physiological Changes
Another thing that you can expect when you age is the physiological changes that ED brings. Doctors reveal that as men age, there is a natural decline in blood flow due to the narrowing and hardening of the arteries, which can affect erectile function. In parallel, men’s testosterone levels also typically decrease with age, which can impact their libido and erectile function. Aging can also affect the nerve signals that trigger an erection, making it hard for men to make love.
- Health Conditions
Most men and women experience a decline in their health as they age. For instance, conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and obesity are more common in older people, and for men, these are significant risk factors for ED. What is more challenging is that some medications for these conditions can also contribute to ED. When you already need to take maintenance medications for your chronic health conditions, you have a higher risk of experiencing ED.
- Psychological Factors
Finally, you can also expect that certain psychological factors can contribute to ED, especially for older men. In this case, concerns about sexual performance and the natural effects of aging can lead to stress and anxiety, which can exacerbate ED. Also, mental health issues, which are also common in older adults, can affect sexual desire and function. For this reason, it is crucial to prioritize your mental health and engage in activities and hobbies that you find enjoyable to help manage stress.
How to Cope
- Lifestyle Modifications
While experiencing ED is common for men as they age, there are specific lifestyle changes that you can undertake to help manage the symptoms of this condition. Engage in regular physical activity because this can improve blood flow, help manage weight, and boost your overall cardiovascular health. Also, eat a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to support your heart health and overall wellness. If you are smoking, it is good to try quitting because both smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to ED.
- Medical Treatments
Another way to cope with ED as you age is to get the proper medical treatment with the vast options available, including prescription medications like Viagra. Your doctor can also prescribe medications that they can directly inject into your penis or insert into your urethra to stimulate an erection. Some health practitioners may recommend the use of vacuum erection devices that can draw blood into the penis, causing an erection. There is also testosterone replacement therapy, which you can consider if your low testosterone levels are contributing to ED. In cases where other treatments are ineffective, penile implants or vascular surgery may be options.
- Psychological Support
Since several psychological factors can exacerbate ED, it is a good idea to acquire psychological support. In most instances, counseling or therapy can help address anxiety, depression, and relationship issues related to ED. You can also seek the help of a sex therapist who can provide strategies and support to improve your sexual function and intimacy. You can seek recommendations from your family and friends to find a therapist to work with. They might know a reputable medical practitioner who can help you with your condition. When you schedule an initial consultation, gauge how comfortable you are talking to them because this can dictate whether you will push through with the therapy or otherwise.
- Communication
Finally, openly communicate with your partner or healthcare practitioner regarding your condition. Discussing ED openly with your partner can reduce anxiety and improve intimacy. Remember, partner support can be crucial in managing the emotional aspects of ED. Regarding professional advice, regular check-ups with your healthcare provider can help manage underlying conditions contributing to ED and tailor treatments to your needs. Rest assured that your doctor will uphold your best interests, ensuring you live the quality of life you deserve.
- Preventive Measures
While there are instances wherein ED cannot be avoided due to certain factors, there are also preventive measures that can help delay its progress or even mitigate it entirely. For instance, regular check-ups can help detect and manage chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension early. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease, which are linked to ED. There are also stress management techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, and yoga that can help reduce stress and anxiety. All these preventive measures are geared towards ensuring that you will have a healthy and fruitful sex life even as you age.
While aging can bring changes that may contribute to ED, there are many strategies to manage and cope with this condition. A combination of lifestyle modifications, medical treatments, psychological support, and open communication can significantly improve your quality of life and sexual health. Also, consulting with healthcare professionals can help you find the most effective approach tailored to your needs. Rest assured that aging can still bring many joys in life that you should look forward to.
