Don’t let yourself be fooled by the rumors out there about erectile dysfunction (ED). Below we’ll explore and debunk the 5 most misleading myths about erectile dysfunction:
Myth 1: ED only happens to older men.
While the occurrence of ED does increase with age, ED rates have increased during the last 20-30 years among younger men. According to a study from the Journal of Sexual Medicine, 1 out of every 4 erectile dysfunction patients is under 40 years old.
Myth 2: ED is uncommon.
Erectile dysfunction is one of the most common sexual problems for men. In the U.S., approximately 15 to 30 million men have been diagnosed at some point in their lives.
Myth 3: Healthy men don’t experience ED.
Yes, men who are in poor health are at higher risk of ED. However, achieving an erection is a complex process involving psychological impulses from the brain, adequate levels of the male sex hormone testosterone, a functioning nervous system, and adequate and healthy vascular tissue in the penis. Men with no medical conditions can still experience ED due to life stressors, medications, drinking, recreational drugs and other factors that impact this complex process.
Myth 4: ED is permanent.
Many men may experience ED temporarily during certain periods of their life. As men grow older, hormones and the tissues in the vascular and nervous systems tend to decline. Treating low hormones (testosterone) or re-patterning the vascular tissue of the penis (shockwave therapy) to open up blood vessels can help improve ED. Changing medications that may interfere with libido and erections, decreasing stress, increasing activity level, getting better sleep, losing weight, and eating well can also help correct ED.
Myth 5: The only treatment option is the “little blue pill.”
Viagra (the little blue pill) has been a great treatment option for ED. However, not only are there many other medications available to treat ED in different ways, there are emerging treatments that have proven to be effective as well. Injectable therapy, plasma rich protein (PRP) and low-intensity shock wave therapy are currently being used as treatment choices.
If you’re interested in learning more about ED and treatment options, contact Austin Urology Institute at 512.694.8888.
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