Certain over-the-counter (OTC) supplements may help with erectile dysfunction, such as: L-arginine in combination with pycnogenol Has been shown in studies to improve sexual function in men with ED Korean red ginseng (also called panax ginseng) Studies have shown improvements in erections Yohimbe Some studies have shown it to be slightly more effective than placebo for ED Carnitine (propionyl-L-carnitine) May improve erectile dysfunction Also used to enhance the effectiveness of sildenafil (Viagra) Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) Declines in DHEA are associated with increased incidence of ED DHEA supplements are often promoted to improve sexual health, though more study is needed
Erectile dysfunction for some cases can be attributed to health conditions present in the patient. These health conditions are: High level of cholesterol in the system. Atherosclerosis, which is the clogging of the blood vessels, thereby, impeding flow. Disease in the heart. Obesity. Presence of high blood pressure. Diabetes. Series of sclerosis. Parkinson’s disease. A metabolic syndrome involving high levels of insulin, spiked blood pressure, and excess body fat. Peyronie’s disease. Low testosterone. Previous surgeries around the pelvic region. Sleeping disorders. Psychological Cause
.
Find this author on Google Scholar Find this author on PubMed Search for this author on this site
Hypogonadism is common in patients with type 2 diabetes, more so if ‘metabolic syndrome’ or obesity is present. The Endocrine Society recommends routine measurement of testosterone levels in patients with type 2 diabetes, but even diabetologists can be tardy in checking this.2 Studies to date have demonstrated strong benefits resulting from testosterone replacement, but this treatment should be individualised and under specialist supervision until long-term studies fully establish its benefits and risks.
If counseling alone does not help treat the psychological issue, medications through a qualified psychiatrist may be prescribed.
Jackson G, Boon N, Eardley I, et al. Erectile dysfunction and coronary artery disease prediction: evidence-based guidance and consensus. Int J Clin Pract 2010; 64: 848–57. doi:10.1111/j.1742-1241.2010.02410.x
By using advanced testing methods like this, our physicians can find the underlying causes of your ED and create more individual and effective erectile dysfunction treatments.
The lifestyle of a patient can greatly affect the erectile capabilities of a man. Abuse of certain drugs. Usage of drugs that are not legal. Smoking. Overweight. Physically inactive. Excess consumption of alcohol.
When used as advised by a medical professional, these treatments are safe and may help men secure more satisfying sex lives.
ED doesn’t have to be a part of getting older. As a man ages, he may need more stimulation (stroking and touching) to get an erection. He might also need more time between erections. Older men should still be able to get an erection and enjoy sex. Diabetes (high blood sugar). Hypertension (high blood pressure). Atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). Stress, anxiety, or depression. Alcohol and tobacco use. Some prescription medicines. This includes antidepressants, pain medicine, and high blood pressure medicine. Fatigue. Brain or spinal cord injuries. Hypogonadism (a condition that leads to low levels of the male hormone, testosterone). Multiple sclerosis. Parkinson’s disease. Radiation therapy to the testicles. Stroke. Some types of prostate or bladder surgery.
Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
Bullet point: The relationship between the risk factors for CVD and ED are intimately interwoven, one with the other. Clinicians need to factor this in when counselling the man with ED.
Clinical studies have generally shown shockwave therapy to be effective and safe, but more research is needed to identify potential risks and the best treatment protocols for someone with erectile dysfunction. How Long Does Shockwave Therapy Take to Work?
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.
Psychological factors, like increased stress and anxiety, can certainly lead to erectile dysfunction and other sexual dysfunction symptoms. Research shows that reducing stress and anxiety levels can help to improve erectile dysfunction.
You want to avoid eating foods that can cause inflammation, worsen stress, cause fatigue and even impact your hormonal balance. These foods include: Packaged and processed foods Refined vegetable oils Refined and processed grains Artificial sweeteners Sweetened beverages Too much caffeine Too much alcohol
Currently, there isn’t sufficient evidence to prove that OTC treatments are effective at treating ED. If you’re curious about trying an OTC treatment in conjunction with prescription medication or as a standalone treatment, talk to your doctor to determine which OTC option, if any, is right for you.