Erectile dysfunction is a topic that many men fear talking about, especially because of the cultural implications it implies. However, it is an increasingly frequent situation in the consultations and its prognosis is favorable.
Getting to have an erection problem, on occasion, does not mean that it is something serious. However, if this happens frequently it is advisable to see a specialist.
Erection problems can cause a man to feel under pressure, with stress or that his confidence is affected, which could lead to conflicts in the relationship.
But, beyond this, if the problem is persistent it is better to rule out that the origin is a disease of which there is no knowledge. Apart from that, erectile dysfunction can be treated and, better yet, it can be prevented.
What is erectile dysfunction?
The studies define erectile dysfunction as “the persistent inability to attain and maintain an erection sufficient to permit satisfactory sexual performance”.
In addition, emphasis is placed on the repercussions of erectile dysfunction on the social and psychic health of those who live it, affecting the quality of life and emotional relationships.
Other research also emphasizes that erectile dysfunction may be: “the total inability to produce an erection, the inability to do so with consistency or the tendency to maintain only short erections.”
In any case, it is important to know first how an erection occurs and what could be the causes of erectile dysfunction in order to prevent it.
How does an erection occur?
To understand how an erection occurs, we must know that the penis has two chambers with spongy tissue, called corpora cavernosa . In turn, these chambers are surrounded by a membrane that is known as tunica albuginea .
Erections occur when a stimulus is presented, either through the senses or the imagination (fantasies). The impulses from the brain and nerves allow the corpora cavernosa to relax, so that the blood flows and can fill the spaces.
Blood generates pressure in the corpora cavernosa with the help of the tunica albuginea and, thus, the erection is maintained . The erection is reversed when the muscles of the penis contract, thus interrupting the flow of blood entering.
What causes erectile dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction can have various causes. Some of them can be:
- Damage to the arteries, nerves, fibrous tissues, or smooth muscles, due to some disease.
- High blood pressure.
- Diabetes.
- Multiple sclerosis.
- Vascular disease
Lifestyle is also important, since this often increases the possibility of suffering from vascular diseases , as occurs with excessive alcohol consumption or smoking.
The use of some medications can also contribute to the appearance of erectile dysfunction as a side effect , as in the case of antihistamines, appetite suppressants, antidepressants, antihypertensives, among others.
Psychological factors should also be considered , such as feelings of guilt, anxiety, stress, depression, low self-esteem or others.
Other cases are also related to alteration of hormones, according to certain medical publications , since endocrine diseases affect the exercise of sexual function.
In summary, the correct functioning of the mechanism to obtain an erection is related to vascular, psychological, neurological and hormonal factors.
Tips to prevent erectile dysfunction
When it comes to preventing erectile dysfunction, what is treated is to avoid those risk factors that increase the chances of its occurrence. Some recommendations to avoid erectile dysfunction are the following:
- Avoid self-medication: some medications may contribute to the appearance of erectile dysfunction. If it is observed that any prescribed medication causes erectile dysfunction, then you should talk with the specialist.
- Getting enough rest: not sleeping the necessary hours can generate stress and this makes the problem worse.
- Exercise: a relevant risk factor is a sedentary lifestyle, so it is recommended to exercise at least three times a week, for half an hour. This, in addition, generates well-being and prevents the appearance of other diseases.
- Do not drink alcohol excessively: alcohol abuse is related to erectile dysfunction.
- Caring for mental health: some cases of this problem are due to affective disorders or conflicts in the couple. If this improves, the dysfunction too.
- Take care of the weight: since metabolic disorders can trigger diseases such as diabetes, which is also related to erectile dysfunction. The recommendation is to have a balanced diet.
Following these measures it will be possible to prevent the onset of erectile dysfunction, however, when it is considered that these are not enough, then you should see a specialist.
