If You Have Erectile Dysfunction Can You Still Get Hard?
Introduction
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common medical condition that negatively impacts a man's sex life and often strains his relationships. It affects men of all ages but, fortunately, is easily diagnosed and highly manageable.
While conversations and societal awareness about ED are improving, many false assumptions and misconceptions persist. Some men still don’t seek treatment despite the array of viable interventions available to them, often because they don’t notice their symptoms or choose to ignore them.
This article explains what ED is, how the condition affects men’s sexual performance, prevention methods, and treatment options. Learning about ED will help you challenge widespread misconceptions about ED and, if needed, start a conversation with your doctor.
ED Symptoms
The most significant sign of ED is erections that are not hard or long-lasting enough for sex. That said, ED does not have quantifiable criteria because the nature of every man's erection differs. This is why self-monitoring is essential. Soft, semi-hard, and absent erections can all qualify as ED if they negatively impact one's sex life. An accurate diagnosis relies on evaluating the quality of your erections over time.
Diminished libido is a secondary symptom, often resulting from altered self-image and frustration stemming from ED. Sometimes, a strained relationship with one's partner can signal ED as men emotionally withdraw due to the condition.
ED Causes
ED can result from physical and psychological factors that impact vascular health, hormone levels, and emotional well-being. Two of the primary causes are obesity and cardiovascular disease. These conditions hinder circulation and alter testosterone levels.
Depression, anxiety, and unmanaged stress can also impede erectile function. Side effects from medication, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, and illicit drug use may also lead to ED. Severe ED often results from a neurological condition, penile trauma, or endocrine disorders affecting hormones.
Getting treated for ED is critical because it may be an early warning sign of a potentially serious health condition.
Can a Man Still Perform with ED?
The challenge in tackling ED is that the condition is not always constant. Doctors consider ED a medical issue requiring treatment when erections are inadequate for sex more than 50% of the time.
Taking a holistic view of your physical health, emotional wellness, and how your sex life impacts your sense of self can help you determine whether you experience ED. Being frank and open with an experienced men's health doctor can help you assess your ED and get the appropriate treatment.
How to Prevent ED
You can take multiple proactive steps to prevent ED. These methods will probably also improve your overall wellness. Doctors recommend many of the following preventative measures as first-line treatments to improve the quality of their patients’ erections.
Following a consistent exercise plan and eating well can combat obesity and improve cardiovascular functioning, thereby mitigating erectile dysfunction. Aerobic exercise strengthens the heart and improves blood flow, and weight or interval training can naturally raise testosterone levels.
A diet featuring lean protein, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains fortifies the heart and reduces the risk of diabetes, a major ED risk factor. Reducing or eliminating sugary, high-fat, and processed foods will also help prevent the condition.
Maintaining healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels is essential for preventing ED. These conditions damage blood vessels, hindering circulation. A heart-healthy diet can help naturally lower cholesterol.
Alcohol and smoking harm the vascular system, which delivers blood to the penis. Moderating alcohol consumption and quitting smoking can prevent and improve the condition by enhancing blood flow.
Cultivating mental health by addressing tension, anxiety, and depression can help prevent the development of ED as well. Psychotherapy can also help men understand their feelings and develop the cognitive tools to manage professional and personal conflicts and stress.
When to See a Doctor
Regardless of age, you should see a doctor if you experience softer-than-usual erections that compromise your sex life. While the incidence of ED rises with age as the prevalence of risk factors increases, ED is never a normal part of life.
Your doctor can diagnose you and, if necessary, make appropriate recommendations for treatment. Safe, effective, and reliable interventions include oral medications, injections, and vacuum devices. The optimal treatment for you will depend on the cause and extent of your ED.
See results on your first visit.
90% of the time ED can be treated and treated effectively.
June 25, 2023
Written By
Jake Peter
Fact-checked By
Dr. Avidon Appel
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