There are some specific problems, about which we cannot speak up properly. We develop the misconception without knowing the fact, because we do not want to discuss. We feel shy to share our feelings our experience, which we should not. The matter which we used to keep quiet is about “Sex”. Erectile Dysfunction is one of such disorders which we avoid to discuss. Erectile Dysfunction, also known as impotence. It is defined by difficulty getting and keeping an erection. As per the report more than half of men between the ages 40 and 70 experienced from ED. This Erectile Dysfunction occurs when a man can’t get or keep an erection firm enough. Men’s sexual process is very complex, which involves the brain, hormones, emotions, nerves, muscles and blood vessels. ED can result from a problem of any of these, but the common causes include – 1. Heart Disease 2. Clogged blood vessels 3. High Cholesterol 4. High Blood Pressure 5. Tobacco use 6. Sleep disorder 7. Low testosterone 8. Parkinson’s disease 9. Metabolic Syndrome 10. Diabetes 11. Certain Prescription medications And many more, it basically depends on individuals. But as per some reports the main cause of it is abnormalities the penile arteries, Veins or both. Chronic illness, certain medications, operations for the prostate, bladder and colon cancer may also be contributing factors. Frequently using abused drugs (like alcohol, Tobacco, cocaine etc.) also may lead to ED. It is also a common side effect of a number of prescribed drugs too. Approximately one in 10 adult males will suffer from ED on a long term Basis. This type of sexual problems may have some specific symptoms but it also includes mental health sometimes. Because physical intimacy is as equal as mental intimacy. It is a sign of physical or psychological condition. Which cause stress, relationship strain and low self-confidence. Patients suffering from erectile dysfunction should first be evaluated for any physical and psychological. Medication and Assistive devices such as pumps can be prescribed. Sexual problems are such problems which we often avoid to discuss. If we find something by our own, we tend to hide. But any type of sexual problem or such disorder should be diagnosed properly and get treated well.
Male Sexual Dysfunction: Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment
What is male sexual dysfunction? Male sexual dysfunction is a common health condition affecting men of all ages but especially the older ones. In this condition, many men struggle with problems during sex and it occurs with increasing age. Sexual dysfunction can be physical or psychological that prevents men from getting sexual satisfaction or pleasure. Problems in sex may be caused due to various factors such as your health, stress, relationship concerns, and other issues. The most common type of sexual dysfunction disorders include erectile dysfunction, ejaculation disorders, inhibited sexual desire, and low libido. Around 31 percent of men and 43 percent of women get some kind of difficulty during sex. But several sorts of sexual disorders can be corrected by treating the underlying causes and can be improved with the help of the latest technologies. Causes of male sexual dysfunction There are a variety of causes leading to male sexual dysfunction including common sexual problems, health problems, mental and emotional issues. Common sexual dysfunction problems Men with sexual dysfunction may feel problems at different points during sex including: Lack of sexual desire Inability to get or keep an erection Orgasms that occur too slowly or quickly Inability to have orgasms Deformities of your penis Retrograde ejaculation Health problems affecting male sexual health Several medical conditions and overall decay of men’s health may affect their sexual life including: Heart and blood vessels disorders e.g. high blood pressure Low testosterone levels Diabetes Kidney problems Hormones imbalances Stroke and nervous system disorders e.g., multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease Obesity High blood pressure High cholesterol Prescriptions drugs for depression and high blood pressure Smoking Drinking too much alcohol Drug abuse Mental and emotional issues Mental and emotional issues can have a big effect on your sex life including Stress Anxiety Depression Fear of pregnancy Low confidence during sex Relationship concerns Regular workout, maintaining weight, and managing stress can be helpful to improve your sex life. Occasional problems with sexual functions are normal but if problems last more than a few months or cause distress for you and your partner, you should talk to your healthcare provider. You may feel shy while discussing your sexual problems with a doctor but being honest about your sexual concerns can be the first step to get help and the best treatment can be recommended. Diagnosis and treatment of male sexual dysfunction Your doctor may ask you several questions about your symptoms, medical and sexual history. They may perform a physical exam and other tests ( including blood tests, Blood pressure check, rectal exam, and examination of your penis and testicles) to check whether an underlying health condition is a reason behind your sexual problems. If your medical condition including heart disease, diabetes, or depression are causing problems in your sexual life, your doctor may treat it first. The healthcare provider or doctor may also ask you to follow a treatment plan, eat a heart-healthy diet, avoid smoking, and drinking alcohol. They may also encourage you to do workouts such as aerobic exercise and weight-building exercise, and change unhealthy habits. If sexual problems are happening due to emotional and psychological issues, you can also get treatment to manage stress, depression, and anxiety. In addition, open communication with your partner may also help you. Male sexual dysfunction cannot be prevented but such things may help you to improve your sexual ability and overall general health. Other treatments are also available such as hormone therapy, counseling, testosterone therapy, Penile traction therapy, surgery to correct penis deformities, penis implant surgery, medications, psychological therapy, and mechanical aids are some of the therapies that can help alleviate male sexual dysfunction. Foods that help you to reduce male sexual dysfunction Some foods have the potential to improve male sexual dysfunction disorders especially erectile disorder. This diet may also help you to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases and erectile dysfunction in males. The diet include Vegetables Fruits Olive oil Fish Legumes Whole grains Flavonoid-rich foods and drinks including strawberries, blueberries, apples, pears, and citrus products. L-arginine rich food such as poultry, red meat, nuts, and dairy products Foods rich in nitrate including spinach, lettuce, radish, beetroot, and Chinese cabbage Cocoa and dark chocolates Tea Foods rich in lycopene including tomatoes, watermelon, grapefruit, papaya, and red peppers The bottom line If managing a healthy lifestyle is not helping you with your sexual problems, consult with your doctor immediately.
Understanding the various causes of infertility in men
A diagnosis of infertility is given when a couple is not able to conceive a child even after having unprotected sexual intercourse for a year or more. Traditionally, it was thought of as a women’s problem. But as it turns out, fertility issues in men are as common as they are in women. The problem could be with sperm production or sperm function. Or, there could be blockages that prevent the delivery of the sperm. Wondering why such issues occur? Let’s understand them here. Symptoms of infertility in men The only sign of infertility in men is the inability to conceive a child. Other than that, you may not see any other obvious signs and symptoms. However, if an underlying problem such as hormonal imbalance or a disorder is the cause of infertility, the following symptoms can be spotted – Problems with sexual intercourse (difficulty with ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, etc) Pain or swelling in the testicle area Recurrent respiratory infections Reduced ability to smell Abnormal breast growth Decreased facial and body hair Causes of infertility in men Just like female fertility, male fertility is a complex process. To get your partner pregnant the following SHOULD happen You must produce healthy sperm The sperm has to be carried into semen Semen should have enough number of sperm in it Sperm must be functional and able to move So, what conditions can become a hindrance in this process? There are medical issues, environmental issues, and lifestyle issues. Medical causes of infertility in men Varicocele Varicocele is a swelling in the scrotum (the sac containing the testes). It occurs when the veins draining blood from the testes get enlarged. Though the exact cause is unknown, it is related to abnormal testicular temperature regulation. Fortunately, this condition is reversible. Infection Some infections interfere with sperm production and sperm health. They can also cause scarring that blocks the passage of sperm. Epididymitis, orchitis, gonorrhea, and HIV are some known such infections. While some of these infections are reversible, others can cause permanent damage. Ejaculation issues Inability to ejaculate semen or semen entering the bladder instead of emerging out of the penis (a condition called retrograde ejaculation) is amongst the common causes of infertility in men. These conditions often occur due to various health issues including diabetes, spinal injuries, prior surgeries, or medications. Autoimmune disorders Sometimes, your own body attacks the sperm. Your immune system might produce anti-sperm antibodies which mistakenly identifies sperm as harmful invaders and tries to eliminate them. Tumors Cancers or even non-cancerous tumors can directly affect the reproductive organs of males. They can influence the organs that release hormones related to reproduction, like the pituitary gland. Sometimes, radiation and chemotherapy used to treat these tumors can also affect fertility. Hormonal imbalance Testicle disorders or any abnormality affecting the hormonal system (such as the hypothalamus, pituitary, thyroid, and adrenal glands) is another common cause of infertility in men. These issues with hormones can have various underlying causes. Defects of tubules Many tubes carry sperm. They can be blocked or damaged because of injury from surgery, prior infections, abnormal development, or certain inherited conditions. Problems with sexual intercourse Erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, painful intercourse, or psychological or relationship problems can also potentially cause infertility in men. Environmental causes of infertility in men Exposure to chemicals and metals Exposure to chemicals such as benzenes, toluene, xylene, pesticides, painting materials or heavy metals like lead can contribute to low sperm count and cause infertility. Heat exposure High temperature can hamper sperm production and their function. Frequent use of saunas, hot tubs or wearing tight clothes can increase the temperature in your scrotum and reduce sperm production. Radiation Exposure to radiation or X-rays can reduce sperm production, but it eventually gets normal. Sometimes, when the dose of radiation is high, permanent damage can occur. Lifestyle and other causes of infertility in men Drug, alcohol and tobacco use Use of steroids, cocaine, marijuana, tobacco, or high consumption of alcohol can reduce sperm production, cause erectile dysfunction, and disbalance your hormones. All of this can become the cause of infertility. Stress Stress can throw the hormones necessary for sperm production out of balance. If it’s chronic, it can also affect your sperm count. Obesity Obesity can affect your fertility in many ways. It can directly impact the sperm or cause changes in your hormonal balance – all of which is a cause of infertility. Takeaway Infertility can sure seem like the biggest challenge of life. But, it can be dealt with if the correct cause is identified. If you notice any symptoms, be sure to report them to the doctor without any delay. Because with timely diagnosis chances of successful treatment increase.
Some Effective Ways of Treating & Managing Acne
In one word acne is such a pain! Let’s begin with an understanding of what exactly acne is and how it occurs. What is acne? Acne, also known as acne vulgaris, is basically a skin condition that develops due to the clogging of hair follicles. The skin pores get clogged with oil, dust, or dead skin cells, which may lead to blackheads, whiteheads, red bumps on the skin, or pus-filled pimples. Acne usually appears on the face, forehead, chest, upper back, and shoulders. Different types of acne The most common acne lesions are whiteheads and blackheads, also known as comedones. Whiteheads or closed comedones – small and under the surface of the skin Blackheads or open comedones- black-coloured and visible on the surface. Inflammatory acne lesions are more likely to cause scars, which include- Papules (raised lesions) Pustules (raised lesions with pus) Cysts (nodules filled with pus or fluid) Acne is most common among teenagers, however, adults also tend to get acne during their 30s, 40s, or even 50s. Pimples are the worst or most embarrassing thing you all get especially when you hit puberty. As it’s truly said- “Adolescence is just one big walking pimple” In fact, there are some myths and misconceptions about acne, such as- Myth #1: Acne is caused by a poor diet Fact: As yet, research has not found any foods that cause acne. Myth #2: Squeezing blackheads, and whiteheads are the best way to get rid of acne No, in fact doing this can actually make your symptoms worse and leave you with a scar. Myth #3: Sexual activity can influence acne’– Fact is, sexual activity or masturbation has literally nothing to do anything with acne. Myth #4: Acne is infectious No, acne is non-contagious and can not pass to another person. Causes of acne Acne is caused when tiny holes in the skin, known as hair follicles, become blocked. Androgens are the sex hormones, which rise especially during puberty, thus leading to the enlargement of the sebaceous glands and the production of more oil and sebum than required. Excessive sebum blocks the hair follicles or pores and leads to the formation of acne or pimple. Still, there are other multiple factors also that can flare up acne, such as- Medications– Certain medicines including steroids, brain disorders-related medicines, anti-epileptic medicines, etc. Some cosmetic products– Since acne-prone skin is very sensitive, it is suggested to use dermatologically tested products, especially which are non-comedogenic so that they don’t clog the skin pores. Smoking– Can also contribute to acne, especially in the elderly. Genetics– Acne has a tendency to run in families. If either of your parents is acne-prone, then it can make your skin also acne-prone. Diet– According to a 2021 review, certain foods or diets may have an effect on acne. Although, so far, research has found that no food can causes acne. But yes, according to some nutritionists there are certain foods that have a high glycemic index (GI) or sugar content, that can worsen your acne. Food with high GI such as white rice, white bread, pasta, sugar etc, increases blood sugar levels more quickly. It further causes blood to release insulin-like growth factor-1 hormone. This hormone increases sebum production when it is produced in large amounts, which can lead to the risk of acne and inflammation. Hormones– Teenage acne is known to be triggered in boys and girls, due to increased levels of a hormone called androgens, during puberty. It enlarges or over activates the sebaceous gland and produces much more sebum than required, which ultimately leads to acne. Hormonal changes during midlife, particularly in women, can lead to breakouts too. Acne in women– Women are more likely to have acne as compared to men. At certain times, women can have hormonal imbalance during certain conditions like periods, pregnancy or menopause, PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), etc. which can cause acne. Signs and symptoms of acne Whiteheads (closed plugged pores) Blackheads (open plugged pores) Papules (raised lesions) Pimples (pustules), which are papules with pus at their tips Large, solid, painful lumps under the skin (nodules) Painful, pus-filled lumps under the skin (cystic lesions) How to treat acne? Depending upon the particular factors like the condition’s severity, type of acne, or your age, the dermatologist may prescribe you particular medications either oral or topical. Topical medications include Antibiotics and retinoids- Dermatologists may prescribe topical or oral antibiotics (like erythromycin or tetracycline) and retinoids (like tretinoin or adapalene), to treat acne. Because topical antibiotics alone are usually not recommended. The doctor may start with a low effective dose, because a high dose and prolonged treatment may cause adverse effects also. In the initial phase of the treatment, the doctor might suggest using both a retinoid and an antibiotic, with the antibiotic applied in the morning and the retinoid in the evening. Oral contraceptive- Hormonal therapies or the combined oral contraceptive pill can also help to control acne in women by suppressing the overactive gland. Azelaic acid and salicylic acid– Along with antibacterial properties, azelaic acid can also be used to manage discolouration that occurs with some types of acne. Dapsone– It is prescribed for inflammatory acne lesions, especially in women with acne. Topical anti-androgen– Clascoterone is topical anti-androgen medicine, which belongs to a new class of treatment that targets the hormone that causes an outbreak. Note: Remember to visit a dermatologist to ascertain the condition’s severity, before getting on a regimen. DO NOT SELF-MEDICATE. Oral medications include Oral antibiotics- Antibiotics work by killing excess skin bacteria and reducing redness and inflammation. It is generally recommended for long-term treatment. Take what the doctor prescribes for as long as it is prescribed. Do not stop the treatment mid-way on your own, even if you see improvement in symptoms. Complete the full course of antibiotic treatment. Examples of oral antibiotics may include tetracycline, minocycline, doxycycline, etc. But, refrain from self-medication. The doctor will prescribe the appropriate antibiotic after a proper skin diagnosis. Isotretinoin- It works by reducing the oil or sebum secretion from the
Bipolar Disorder – The 11 Most Frequently Asked Questions
Introduction Bipolar disorder (also known as manic-depressive disorder or manic depression) is a relatively common but serious form of mental health condition. People with bipolar disorder experience extreme mood swings ranging from euphoric highs to depressive lows that typically occur during distinct periods of days to weeks. It also causes unusual changes in a person’s energy and ability to function. Here’s what you should know about this mental illness: FAQ #1: How do you know when a person suffers from bipolar disorder? There is one problem with bipolar disorder: It is a multi-faceted disease and more complicated than a simple checklist of symptoms that you can find online for an official diagnosis. Multiple visits over a long period of time are required to demonstrate a pattern of behaviour. The symptoms of bipolar illness are categorized into: Mania Depression Some of the seven key signs of mania are: Being excessively happy or “high” for extended periods of time Having decreased need for sleep Speaking quickly, typically with racing ideas Having a restless or impetuous sensation Becoming easily distracted Acting hyperactively Having over-confidence in one’s abilities to the point of danger Engaging in reckless behaviour Some of the seven key signs of depression are: Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities Feeling sad for long periods Withdrawing from friends and family Problems with memory and concentration A significant change in appetite Severe fatigue or lack of energy Suicidal ideation or attempt, or preoccupation with death FAQ #2: Can bipolar disorder be treated? While bipolar disorder can be difficult to diagnose, it is treatable once it is identified. FAQ #3: Is bipolar disorder hereditary? Just like most psychiatric conditions, the causes of bipolar disorder are not well known. However, researchers have discovered that genetics are a substantial factor in disease manifestation. This means that adults who have relatives with this condition have a tenfold increased risk of having the disorder. This shows that the illness may have a hereditary component. FAQ #4: Should I have my doctor regularly screen me for the disorder if my parent has bipolar disorder? It’s true that bipolar disorder runs in families. Having first degree relatives with bipolar disorder, (mother, father, siblings, and children) can increase the risk of developing bipolar disorder or act as a trigger for the first episode. Hence, it’s a good idea to consult your doctor periodically, to keep an eye out on the onset of bipolar disorder. FAQ #5: Can stress trigger bipolar disorder? Bipolar disorder is frequently triggered by a stressful experience at work or in your personal life. A major life change, such as the death of a loved one or a physical injury, might also set off the symptoms. Controlling stress in one’s life is usually beneficial for those with bipolar disorder. FAQ #6: Can bipolar disorder go away by itself? Bipolar disorder, if left untreated, can lead to major problems that influence every aspect of your life, including: Addiction to drugs and alcohol Suicide or attempted suicide Financial or legal issues Damaged relationships Poor performance at the job or in school FAQ #7: Can bipolar disorder be cured? Although there is no cure for bipolar disorder, most people with this condition can control the illness with the help of psychotherapy and the right combination of mood stabilizers and other bipolar medicines. When behavioural therapy is used in conjunction with medicines, they have shown to be effective at preventing relapses and reducing the severity of the patient’s symptoms. FAQ #8: Does bipolar disorder get worse as you get older? If left untreated, bipolar disorder tends to get worse with age. As time passes, a person may have more severe and intense episodes than when the symptoms first emerged. FAQ #9: Does bipolar disorder cause harm to the brain? People with bipolar disorder may suffer progressive brain damage with each manic or depressive episode. Bipolar episodes cause a reduction in brain growth and, potentially, intelligence. FAQ #10: Does bipolar disorder have an impact on sleep? Bipolar disorder is characterised by sleep disturbances that can wreak havoc on a person’s mood and decision-making abilities. According to the diagnostic criteria, manic periods may have a reduced need for sleep, whereas depression episodes may manifest insomnia or hypersomnia. FAQ #11: Is there a cure for bipolar in Ayurveda? Ayurveda offers a multitude of holistic tools for approaching this psychological disease. Combined with meditation and other yogic practices, Ayurveda works on modifications in lifestyle, diet, herbs to suit the specific individual. Some herb choices for tonics to treat bipolar disorder are: Ashwagandha Brahmi Shatavari Ginseng Kappikacchu Haritaki Bhringaraj Final thoughts Bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition and it can be a real challenge for both you and your loved ones — so it is important to consider your own needs as well as theirs. It’s important to remember that most people with the bipolar illness can manage their condition and live healthy, happy lives with the right treatment.
Did You Know That Eating These Foods Will Help Treat Constipation?
Introduction People are typically too ashamed to publicly discuss a serious condition, called constipation. It is a condition in which the afflicted frequently experience irregular bowel movements or have a great deal of trouble passing faeces. Although, constipation is generally considered to be one of the most common digestive issues, which is easily treatable, chronic, persistent or neglected constipation can lead to severe complications. According to a recent poll, approximately 22 per cent of the country’s adult population suffer from constipation, with Kolkata leading the pack with 28 per cent of respondents. Technically, constipation is defined as having less than three bowel motions per week. The frequency of “going” varies significantly from person to person. While some people empty the bowels multiple times a day, others only do it once or twice per week. Constipation results from your colon absorbing excessive amounts of water from waste (stool/poop), which dries up the stool and makes it difficult to push it out of the body. There are several reasons why people get constipated, but the sluggish passage of food through the digestive system is a common reason in most cases. Dehydration, a poor diet, drugs, sickness, diseases of the neurological system, or mental illnesses can all contribute to constipation. Fortunately, certain meals can reduce constipation by increasing the stool’s density, softening it, speeding up the gut transit, and increasing the frequency of bowel movements. Here are some effective foods that can help you achieve optimum bowel movement and aid in the treatment of constipation: Apples Apples are one of the most popular fruits due to their low-calorie content, ability to help with weight reduction, lower the risk of diabetes, and ability to protect your heart. But did you know that this common fruit can help with constipation too? Both soluble and insoluble fibre is present in apples, amounting to 32% of soluble fibre and 64% of insoluble fibre. The insoluble fibre gives the stool more volume and aids in its rapid transit through the intestines. Apples are therefore advantageous for those who are constipated. Since the apple’s skin contains insoluble fibre, eating apples without peeling the skin is the best option if you’re experiencing constipation. Prunes Prunes, which are dried plums, are frequently used as an all-natural constipation treatment. Per 1/4 cup (40 grams) serving, they have a high fibre content of over 3 grams. Bringing water into the intestines and triggering a bowel movement eases constipation. Kiwi A person dealing with constipation should increase the amount of fibre in their diet, for which Kiwi is one of the best sources. Kiwis are known to help prevent constipation in addition to their high fibre content, which also aids in smooth digestion. Studies suggest that actinidin, an enzyme, is in charge of kiwi’s beneficial effects on bowel habits and gut motility. You can either consume raw kiwis or can simply peel them, remove the seeds, and then have them. In one trial, wherein this fruit was eaten for 28 days by 19 healthy people. When compared to a group that wasn’t on the same diet, researchers discovered that eating kiwis significantly increased the number of bowel movements each day. Consuming kiwi is a good option to fight fewer bowel movements. Pears Another fruit high in fibre is pears, which contain 5.5 grams in a medium-sized fruit (about 178 grams). The sugar alcohol sorbitol is also found in pears. Sorbitol, like fructose, is poorly absorbed by the body and, by delivering water into the intestines, works as a natural laxative. Pears can be incorporated into your diet in a variety of ways. You can eat them raw or cooked, with cheese, or you can add them to salads, savoury meals, and baked dishes. Triphala Triphala is a miraculous herb plant. It contains three essential herbs that are proven to treat constipation: Amalaki (amla), haritaki (harad), and bibhitaki (baheda). Before going to bed, mix half a teaspoon with a cup of warm milk or water. Vegetable juice A tall glass of vegetable juice prepared from your favourite veggies is a great mid-morning or mid-evening drink for beating constipation. You can use spinach, tomato, beetroot, lime juice, and ginger, to create a cool relaxing drink. Juices also have a lot of water in them, which can assist in softening particularly firm stool, while also keeping the body hydrated. Final thoughts There are many ways through which the condition of constipation can be managed. Many studies have concluded that fruits, vegetables, pulses, and seeds can help relieve constipation. It is important to maintain the amount of fibre in the diet to avoid few bowel movements and poor digestive functions. If you are suffering from this condition, then here we have suggested some amazingly effective foods that can help you overcome it. To beat constipation, it’s time to bring about changes in your diet along with some healthy lifestyle changes to prevent and manage the condition. Also, it’s a great idea to opt for frequent stomach health checks to keep an eye on your digestive health and take preventive measures if any discrepancies occur.
All About Erectile Dysfunction: Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment
What is erectile dysfunction? Erectile dysfunction or ED is a condition in which a man often finds it difficult to maintain an erection for satisfactory sexual intercourse. In other words, erectile dysfunction is defined as a condition in which men feel some difficulty with their penis becoming hard or staying firm. Occasional erectile dysfunction is common and several men may experience it when they are stressed. However, frequent ED may be a warning sign of serious health concerns. The main symptoms of erectile dysfunction include trouble getting an erection, reduced interest in sex, and difficulty in maintaining an erection during sexual activities. There are a few sexual disorders related to ED, which include premature ejaculation, delayed ejaculation, and anorgasmia (inability to orgasm). As per the general biological process, the penis is erected when increased blood flow gets to the organ. Blood flow into the penis can occur due to direct contact with the penis or sexual thoughts. Muscles in the penis get to relax when a man feels sexually excited. It causes increased blood flow through penile arteries and also loads the chambers with blood inside the penis. As soon as chambers load with blood, the penis becomes hard and rigid. When the muscles in the penis contract, the loaded blood in the penis and its chambers come out through penile veins and this process ends the erection. The normal erectile process can be affected due to problems in blood flow, nerve supply, and hormones. Several men with erectile dysfunction are reluctant to share it with their healthcare provider because they feel embarrassed and shy. However, the treatment of ED is available in the market so talking openly with a healthcare provider may be the first step to get help and the best treatment can be recommended. What causes erectile dysfunction? The causes of erectile dysfunction can be physical or organic, medication side effects, and psychological. Here are some of the key conditions that can cause erectile dysfunction. Physical causes 90 percent of erectile dysfunction occurs due to physical causes. The following list includes the most physical or organic causes of erectile dysfunction Heart diseases Diabetes Narrowing blood vessels Kidney disease Increased age or being over age 50 High blood pressure or hypertension High cholesterol Obesity Lacking exercise Metabolic syndrome Multiple sclerosis Hormonal disorders including testosterone deficiency Radiation therapy Treatment of prostate cancer Smoking Alcohol Illegal substance abuse including cocaine Atherosclerosis Medicinal causes Medications may also cause erectile dysfunction however, anyone should consult with a doctor before stopping or changing the medications. Those include Medicines to manage high blood pressure Heart disease medication Anxiety treatments Antidepressants cancer medication Prostate treatment drugs Hormone drugs Medication including sleeping pills Emotional causes Satisfying sexual intercourse needs the body and mind to work together. However, if there are emotional and relationship problems between the couple, it can cause or worsen the ED. Psychological causes of ED including Guilt Stress at home or work Stress from social, cultural, and religious conflicts Fear of intimacy Depression Severe anxiety Relationship problems Worry about sex performance Post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD Erectile dysfunction can occur due to one of these factors or a combination of them. Therefore, it is imperative to talk with your doctor so that they can find out any underlying medical condition that causes erectile dysfunction. A proper diagnosis can help you to treat any underlying medical condition and solve the sexual complexities. Diagnosis and treatment of erectile dysfunction To diagnose erectile dysfunction, your doctor or healthcare provider may do a physical exam (including blood pressure check, penis, and testicles exam, and rectal exam) and can ask questions regarding your symptoms, physiological, health, and sexual history. They may also recommend other tests that can help to diagnose ED including ultrasound, injection test, urine test, blood test, and nocturnal penile tumescence or NPT test. These tests can help doctors to do better treatment and find out if any underlying condition causes ED. The treatment of ED includes medication, talk therapy, or a combination of both. They can also recommend testosterone therapy if the level of testosterone hormone is low in the body. Certain exercises can help men with ED such as Kegal exercise, aerobic exercise, and yoga. ED is caused due to problems in blood vessels. Maintaining healthy blood vessels can be achieved by adapting to a specific lifestyle such as eating a healthy diet. Some foods are recommended that may help reduce the risk of developing ED including whole grains, vegetables, fruits, cocoa, and watermelon. Avoiding red meat, full-fat dairy products, processed sugars, and alcohol may also help to prevent the risk of ED. The bottom line Erectile dysfunction can be caused due to any reason whether it is an underlying condition or psychological. If you find symptoms of erectile dysfunction, consult with your doctor immediately. An underlying condition can lead to a serious health issue therefore early diagnosis and treatment may help in successful treatment. In addition, adopting a healthy lifestyle not only benefits your blood vessels but also improves your overall general health. We hope you find this article helpful.
Premature Ejaculation: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
Premature ejaculation is also known as rapid ejaculation, premature climax, or early ejaculation. Read on to learn more about PE and how to treat it. Understanding premature ejaculation Ejaculation is the ejection of semen from the men’s body during an orgasm or climax. Premature ejaculation is also known as rapid ejaculation, premature climax, or early ejaculation, a condition in which orgasm occurs before sexual intercourse or just after you start. There is no fixed time of ejaculation during sex but in the case of PE, men ejaculate and lose their erection shortly getting less time to enjoy the sexual intercourse. PE or premature ejaculation can be frustrating and uncomfortable for men that make sex less enjoyable and can impact relationships with their partners, however, it may not be a cause of worry if it occurs occasionally. PE is a common condition among men and around 30 to 40 percent of them have it at some point in their life. PE is considered a sexual dysfunction that can often occur along with erectile dysfunction however, it is not the same as erectile dysfunction. Symptoms of premature ejaculation The primary symptoms of PE can be persistent and lifelong including Ejaculation happens just before sexual penetration There can be a failure to delay ejaculation whenever penetration occurs Rapid orgasm or climax during masturbation There can be negative personal consequences such as distress, frustration, and ignoring sexual intimacy In addition, psychological symptoms can be secondary including Depression Embarrassment Anxiety Mental distress Interpersonal difficulty Decreased confidence in the relationship Premature ejaculation may not be a matter of worry if it happens occasionally, however, you may require treatment if PE happens frequently or for a long period. If men experience PE sometimes, however, normal ejaculation other times, they may be diagnosed with natural variable premature ejaculation. PE may be lifelong as well as acquired; however, if it happens at the start of a relationship, it can be fixed as the relationship goes on. IF PE is persistent and continues that impact sexual relationships, your doctor may recommend counseling. Causes of premature ejaculation The exact cause of PE is still unknown while researchers believe that a chemical called serotonin can contribute partly to PE. Serotonin is an essential substance or chemical in your body produced by nerve cells. Great amounts of serotonin in the brain enhance the time to ejaculate however, low amounts of serotonin can reduce the time to ejaculate, and lead to PE. In addition, Psychological and emotional factors may also contribute to PE. Psychological factors Numerous cases of PE are not associated with any disease however those can be due to psychological or emotional factors including Stress Depression Anxiety Guilt Relationship problems Poor body image Lack of confidence Worry about sexual performance Negative feelings about sex Unrealistic expectations about sex Poor self-esteem History of sexual abuse Aging Overexcitement or too much stimulation Issues related to control and intimacy Some psychological factors may be temporary if a person learns strategies to delay ejaculation with time. However, these factors can also affect men who have previously normal ejaculation. Physical or medical factors PE can also occur due to an underlying condition and it can be a sign that an underlying needs treatment. The possible medical causes of PE including Diabetes Multiple sclerosis Prostate disease Thyroid Problems Illicit drugs use Excessive alcohol consumption Abnormal levels of hormones including testosterone Inflammation of the urethra Genetic traits that can be inherited by parents Sometimes, men with erectile dysfunction can also face problems of PE. Treatment of erectile dysfunction may cause premature ejaculation to go away. Diagnosis and treatment Men who feel symptoms of PE should talk to their healthcare provider or doctor immediately. They ask whether you always experience the symptoms or just have experienced it recently. They can also ask about your sexual life or relationship. They may also take a physical exam. If your doctor finds out that psychological factors are playing a role in your PE, he or she can recommend a mental health professional. If a medical or physical problem is causing PE, he or she may recommend a urologist. The treatments of PE include medication, behavioral therapy, and psychological therapy. 95 percent of cases can be treated by behavioral techniques while others may also help including: Stop and start therapy The squeeze method Strengthen your muscles through pelvic floor exercises Wearing condom Seek counseling Antidepressants Medication for erectile dysfunction Numbing creams and sprays Talking with your partner Practice yoga and pranayama daily Stop fantasizing too much about sex or women Best foods to prevent or manage premature ejaculation Certain nutrients and foods not only support your immunity but also helps in producing testosterone, libido, and energy. The nutrients and foods include Foods rich in zinc including lean meats, poultry eggs, lentils, etc Pumpkin seeds Soybeans Yogurt Spinach Almonds Kidney beans Chickpeas Dark chocolate Peas Garlic Green onion Ginger and honey Ladyfinger Carrots Watermelon Bananas Lifestyle habits can be helpful to cure premature ejaculation To maintain an erection you should avoid the following food items and lifestyle habits including: Sugar Starchy food Smoking Drinking alcohol Junk food Stress Depression The bottom line Men with premature ejaculation should talk with their doctors as soon as possible because the complications associated with it can impact your relationship and prevent you from starting a family. If home remedies are not helping you, you should discuss them with your doctor because your PE may be caused due to an underlying condition. Treatment of an underlying condition is imperative as it can also affect your overall general health.