Erectile dysfunction (ED) is defined as a man’s inability to maintain an erection. There are multiple causes of erectile dysfunction, but the most common reasons for the condition are related to other health conditions in the body that can lead to ED. These include poor blood circulation, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, atherosclerosis, and heart disease – which all affect blood flow, but proper blood flow is necessary for proper sexual function.
It is common for men to have trouble achieving an erection at times, but failing to reach one on a regular basis is considered a medical problem. Aside from the emotional toll it exacts, ED can point to an underlying health condition.
Treating Underlying Health Conditions to Treat ED
Receiving treatment for the underlying medical issue is often the best way to successfully address erectile dysfunction. Let’s talk about some of the common underlying causes of ED so both issues can be treated:
Obesity
Carrying too much weight in your body can adversely affect sexual performance, because obesity negatively impacts testosterone levels. Levels of other sex hormones that help to distribute testosterone through the blood are also reduced by being overweight. Obesity therefore contributes to erectile dysfunction.
Obesity should be a consideration for doctors when treating erectile dysfunction in men who are very overweight. Speak with a healthcare professional to learn if it’s a contributing factor in your case. If weight is likely to be a contributing issue to your ED, then your doctor will devise a plan to address the weight problem.
Smoking
Smoking is a contributing factor to ED. It’s been proven that smoking cigarettes will cause damage to blood vessels – in turn, damage to the blood vessels may result in erectile dysfunction, as ED is related to poor blood flow.
Depression
Experiencing clinical depression can lead to sexual dysfunction, including ED. A man who becomes depressed may lose interest in many activities they once found enjoyable, including sex. Therefore, for some men, treating depression could be a major step in treating their ED.
Heart Disease
Blood flow to the heart is reduced when coronary heart disease is present. Arteries narrow as plaque builds up along artery walls. This, of course, affects blood flow throughout the body – and the lack of healthy blood flow will cause ED. Treating the underlying heart disease can therefore help to alleviate a man’s ED symptoms.
Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes has been strongly linked to ED, since high blood sugar will damage blood vessels as well as nerves (which allow us to feel sensations). If groin-area nerves and blood vessels are damaged due to diabetes, this can cause a man to experience erectile dysfunction.
ED Treatment Doctor in Phoenix
Erectile dysfunction is a difficult topic for men to discuss, even with their doctor. If you’ve experienced or are experiencing ED, don’t be embarrassed to discuss it with an experienced urologist who knows how to fix the problem.
Dr. Desi Avila here at Ironwood Urology will evaluate your symptoms and diagnose your condition. A treatment plan will then be put in place to address the issue of erectile dysfunction and its underlying condition.
To request an appointment, call us today at (480) 961-2323 or fill out our appointment request form online now. We look forward to helping you get back to feeling great.
