How to have stronger erections! | Erectile Dysfunction causes & treatments!

Summary

In this video, Dr. Rena Malik discusses various treatment options for erectile dysfunction (ED). She explains the causes, such as vascular issues, diabetes, and medications, and emphasizes the importance of lifestyle changes like diet, exercise, and quitting smoking. Medical treatments such as medications like sildenafil, intraurethral suppositories, and injections are covered, alongside more advanced options like penile prostheses. Dr. Malik highlights the importance of consulting a doctor to diagnose underlying causes and explore personalized treatment options. She also introduces BlueChew, a convenient ED medication service.

Takeaways

• 👩‍⚕️ Erectile dysfunction (ED) is common in men over 52, with vascular issues like high blood pressure and smoking being the top causes.
• 🍫 Diabetes increases the risk of ED, and over half of diabetic men will develop it due to nerve and blood flow damage.
• 💊 Certain medications, including blood pressure drugs like beta-blockers and antidepressants (SSRIs), can contribute to ED.
• 🩺 It's important to see a doctor to rule out underlying conditions like heart disease when experiencing ED.
• 🍽️ Lifestyle changes, especially following a Mediterranean diet and regular exercise, can help improve or slow down ED.
• 🚬 Quitting smoking and reducing alcohol intake can significantly benefit sexual health and improve ED.
• 🔬 Supplements for ED are unregulated, and their effectiveness often stems from a placebo effect.
• 💉 Non-medication treatments include intraurethral suppositories, vacuum erection devices, and penile injections.
• 💊 BlueChew offers a convenient, chewable prescription medication for ED, available through an online consultation.
• ⚠️ Serious complications like priapism (prolonged erections) can occur from some ED treatments, and medical help should be sought immediately.

Q & A

What is erectile dysfunction (ED) and how common is it?

Erectile dysfunction is defined as the inability to have penetrative intercourse. It affects about half of men over the age of 52.

What are the primary causes of erectile dysfunction?

The main causes of erectile dysfunction include vascular problems (such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking), diabetes, medications (for blood pressure and depression), neurological issues, pelvic surgeries, and hormonal imbalances.

How does diabetes contribute to erectile dysfunction?

Diabetes affects both blood flow and nerve function in the penis, which are crucial for erections. Over half of men with diabetes will develop erectile dysfunction, and the longer someone has diabetes, the higher the risk.

What lifestyle changes can improve erectile dysfunction?

Lifestyle changes that can help include adopting a Mediterranean diet (high in fresh produce, fish, and polyunsaturated oils), exercising regularly (60 minutes, three times a week), quitting smoking, and reducing alcohol consumption.

Can medications cause erectile dysfunction?

Yes, some medications, particularly those for high blood pressure (thiazides, beta blockers) and depression (SSRIs), can contribute to erectile dysfunction.

What non-medication options are available for treating erectile dysfunction?

Non-medication options include intraurethral suppositories, vacuum erection devices, and intracavernosal injections.

What are intraurethral suppositories and how do they work?

Intraurethral suppositories contain prostaglandin, which diffuses into the erectile tissue to increase smooth muscle relaxation and improve erections. They come in different doses and are inserted into the urethra.

What are the side effects of intraurethral suppositories?

Common side effects include penile pain (32%), burning in the urethra (12%), minor bleeding, testicular pain, and dizziness in about 2% of users.

What are intracavernosal injections and how effective are they?

Intracavernosal injections involve injecting pharmacologic agents directly into the penis to relax smooth muscle and increase blood flow. They are highly effective, with up to 80-85% of men seeing positive results.

When should someone consult a doctor about erectile dysfunction?

If someone experiences erectile dysfunction, they should consult their primary care doctor or a urologist to rule out underlying health issues, including cardiac disease, and discuss treatment options.