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Erectile Dysfunction
A Johns Hopkins study revealed that over 18 million men in the U.S. over the age of 20 experience difficulties having and maintaining an erection.
Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
Unfortunately, many men are reluctant to report erectile dysfunction (ED) to their partner, or physician, due to social stigmas associated with bedroom performance. ED, or the inability to maintain an erection, is much more common than the general population may realize and has a lot to do with men’s health. A Johns Hopkins study revealed that over 18 million men in the U.S. over the age of 20 experience difficulties having and maintaining an erection.
Signs & Symptoms
Erectile Dysfunction (ED), also known as impotence, is a type of male sexual dysfunction characterized by the inability to maintain an erection long enough and firm enough for sexual intercourse.
While most men will have occasional difficulty achieving a healthy erection during sexual intercourse, ED is only considered a possible medical explanation for these symptoms if erection difficulties have been affecting a man for an extended period of time. When blood flow to the two chambers of the penis, known as the corpora cavernosa, are blocked or restricted for any reason, this can result in ED.
Erectile Dysfunction Cause
Erectile Dysfunction (ED), also known as impotence, is a type of male sexual dysfunction characterized by the inability to maintain an erection long enough and firm enough for sexual intercourse.
While most men will have occasional difficulty achieving a healthy erection during sexual intercourse, ED is only considered a possible medical explanation for these symptoms if erection difficulties have been affecting a man for an extended period of time. When blood flow to the two chambers of the penis, known as the corpora cavernosa, are blocked or restricted for any reason, this can result in ED.
Poor Circulation
The most common cause of ED is a lack of flowing blood to erectile tissue. Plaque and damaged vessels can restrict circulation enough to disrupt function. Typically, symptoms begin with difficulty maintaining an erection before advancing to a complete inability to obtain one.
Alcohol Consumption
More than two drinks a day is considered a risk factor for ED. Alcohol can lower testosterone levels, decrease flowing blood to the penis, and cause nerve and hormonal imbalances. Low testosterone from alcohol or drug abuse can also affect your libido and performance, potentially leading to further psychological ED complications.
Hormonal Imbalances
The production of testosterone and other hormones naturally decreases with age, and this can disrupt erections. Also, in rare instances, kidney failure and liver disease may throw off the balance of hormones necessary for proper erection and intercourse. In most cases, testosterone replacement therapy can bring levels of the hormone back to normal.
Smoking
The hardening of the arteries associated with smoking tobacco can reduce flowing blood to the penis. Smoking also results in oxidative stress – another risk factor for erectile dysfunction. Fortunately, quitting smoking has shown to relieve much of the ED risks associated with the habit.
Obesity or lack of physical activity
Engaging in an active lifestyle can help with weight management, stress, anxiety, and depression – all of which help with other conditions and decrease the risk of developing ED. The accumulation of fat in the body can cause a drop in active testosterone levels. In addition, being overweight can cause cardiovascular problems that are known to contribute to ED.
Cycling and horseback riding
The pressure applied to the pelvic floor during these activities can result in nerve and vascular damage that may inhibit erections.
ED Medications
Among the most popular treatment options for erectile dysfunction are pharmaceuticals. Drugs such as Viagra (Sildenafil), Levitra (Vardenafil), and Cialis (Tadalafil) are popular and boast an 80% success rate. These drugs are classified as phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (PDE-5) – which enable an erection, temporarily, but are not the best for maintaining an erection over time.
Prescriptions are heavily relied upon, having to be taken 15 minutes to 36 hours before sexual activity is initiated – not only reducing the spontaneity of one’s sex life but oftentimes fostering dependence.
This route typically isn’t recommended for men taking nitrate drugs or alpha-blockers, and all medications, including over-the-counter herbs and supplements, should be shared with your doctor to prevent negative interactions. The commonly reported potential side effects of phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors include headache, flushing, runny nose, stomach pain, back pain, indigestion, vision changes, and dizziness.
Treatment options for erectile dysfunction don’t have to be so much work.
GAINSWave Treats the Root cause of ED
GAINSWave®, the clinically proven, non-invasive therapy, was specifically developed for men seeking an erectile dysfunction treatment that would improve their sexual performance.
The pulsating waves of GAINSWave improves blood flow to the penis by dissolving plaque build-up and stimulating the growth of new blood vessels. The improvement results in stronger, harder, and more sustainable erections.
The pulsating waves also trigger a healing response that “wakes-up” dormant stem cells and growth factors in the penis for an overall rejuvenation of male erectile tissue.
With this alternative ED treatment, there are no expensive prescriptions to remember to take or refill, and no penile implants or surgery. There are none of the harmful side effects with this ED treatment as with oral drugs.
GAINSWave therapy is effective and safe for men who cannot take oral ED medicine, such as those with heart disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure. GAINSWave can be used to treat Peyronie’s Disease, which Viagra and other oral ED drugs cannot.
