Erectile dysfunction, or ED, is a common condition that is characterized by the recurrent inability to get or maintain an erection for the duration of sexual intercourse. This can have a number of causes, including both physical and psychological factors such as blood flow problems or anxiety. If this is a routine problem that disrupts your life, there are a number of treatment options available. Here are some ways to treat erectile dysfunction:
1. Oral Medication
The most common erectile dysfunction treatments are oral medications. Doctors will often prescribe pills like sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), or avanafil (Stendra). Depending on the drug, you may be instructed to take these pills anywhere from 15 minutes to 36 hours before sex. These oral medications can typically be taken on an as-needed basis, but you should not take them more than once per day. About 80 percent of individuals who take these pills have successful results.
2. Injections and Suppositories
If pills don’t work or you can’t take them for medical reasons, your doctor may prescribe an injectable medication called alprostadil. This is injected into the penis using a small needle to boost blood flow, usually triggering an erection within minutes. An alternative to an injection is a suppository. You can place alprostadil pellets inside the urethra using a special applicator. However, suppositories may be less successful than injections.
3. Vacuum Devices
A non-invasive treatment for erectile dysfunction that doesn’t involve drugs is a vacuum erection device. This device, also called a vacuum constriction device, includes a plastic tube, manual or battery-powered pump, and elastic ring. You slide the tube over the penis and use the pump to suck the air out of it. This pulls blood into the penis to cause an erection. Once an erection is obtained, place the elastic ring around the base of the penis to maintain firmness and remove the tube.
4. Surgical Implants
Surgery is typically only recommended if other treatment options have failed. There are two types of surgical implants, or prostheses, that can be used to treat erectile dysfunction: inflatable and malleable. Inflatable implants are a pair of tubes surgically placed inside the penis that are connected to a squeezable pump in the scrotum. Squeeze this pump to create an erection. Malleable implants are a pair of bendable rods that are placed in the penis. Manually move your penis into a position suitable for sex, and the rods will hold it in place.
5. Lifestyle Changes
Making day-to-day lifestyle adjustments can help you overcome erectile dysfunction. Stop any tobacco or illegal drug use, and limit alcohol consumption. Eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly to help improve blood flow and sexual health. If you are overweight or obese, losing weight can also help. High cholesterol and blood pressure can contribute to ED, so managing these conditions may reduce symptoms. Finally, find healthy ways to manage stress to minimize its effects on your sexual health.
6. Counseling
Erectile dysfunction can be triggered by psychological conditions and emotions. Stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to ED. Talking about your thoughts and feelings with a counselor may help. They can help you manage the psychological or emotional issues that are causing your ED. Reducing these triggers can make you feel more confident in your relationship and ease your sexual anxiety as well. You may want to Include your partner in these sessions to help them understand and support you throughout the process.
7. Supplements
Taking supplements that naturally boost your testosterone levels may help treat erectile dysfunction if you have low levels of this hormone. A great supplement to try is Testo Freedom. This supplement contains shilajit and Eurycoma longifolia extract, both of which are natural compounds that have been found to increase testosterone levels in the body. Taking Testo Freedom may support healthy testosterone levels, libido and performance, and overall vitality.
Do you struggle with symptoms of erectile dysfunction? Here at Lakeland Drug Company, we offer private consultations so you can feel comfortable discussing your questions and concerns with a knowledgeable, caring pharmacist. Reach out to us today so we can help you get back to an improved quality of life!
