Causes of Erectile Dysfunction in the 50s

Many people consider erectile dysfunction as an embarrassing problem. You need not feel embarrassed if you suffer from this challenge, irrespective of your age. rnThis problem is quite common because, according to statistics, about one out of every five men above 20 years old is affected.

Erectile Dysfunction - General Causes

Erectile Dysfunction is due to physical, medical, physiological, psychological, or lifestyle factors. rnHowever, in men who are above 50 years, the causes are almost always physical. The most common physical causes are: • Nerve damage and reduced blood flow to the penis - reduced blood flow occurs in older men as a result of poor circulation and blocked arteries. In most cases, these are due to an unhealthy lifestyle. • Cardiovascular disease and diabetes. • Nerve damage - caused by damage to the pelvic region. It also occurs as a result of surgery to the prostate, colon, or bladder. • Prescription drugs and over the counter medications - such drugs include heart medications, antidepressants, and medications for high blood pressure. The most common medical and physiological causes among older men are: • Illnesses like diabetes • Prolonged use of prescription drugs • Arteriosclerosis • Complications from surgeries around the pelvic areas Some lifestyle factors or every day habits can also cause erectile dysfunction in men above the 50s. These are:

• Smoking

Smoking cigarettes or nicotine consumption can accelerate the onset of the hardening of the arteries. rnArteries are vessels that control the flow of blood to the penis. Their malfunctioning can act as a minor cause of erectile dysfunction.

• Alcohol Consumption

Excessive consumption of alcohol can cause erectile dysfunction. rnBesides, alcohol can cause damage to the liver, resulting in hormonal changes that can result in erectile dysfunction.

• Obesity

rnObesity or being overweight can result in type II diabetes, which is among the common causes of erectile dysfunction.

• Illicit Drugs

Taking illegal drugs like cocaine, marijuana, and opiates have adverse effects as they tend to dull the senses. rnBesides, addiction to these drugs can have a significant impact on your sex life and your inability to perform typically. This will eventually lead to long term erectile dysfunction.

Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction

There are various treatments for the physical causes of erectile dysfunction. They include: • Surgeryrn• Drugrn• Penile injections • Vacuum pump devices These treatments come with their associated risks, and their effectiveness is not guaranteed.

Other Treatments

• Lifestyle Changes

The best treatment for erectile dysfunction is to focus on adopting a healthy lifestyle. rnThe most effective and long-lasting way to become fit is through diet and exercise. You need the excellent circulation of blood flowing to the penis and unclogged arteries to sustain a healthy erection. rnChanges in lifestyles like weight loss, avoiding alcoholic drinks, and stopping smoking will help your erectile dysfunction problems. Consult your doctor if a particular type of drug causes your erectile dysfunction. rnSome medications like sedatives, ulcer medications, blood pressure drugs, allergy medications, and antidepressants make it extremely tough for you to achieve an erection that will be hard enough for sexual activity.

• Diet

Eat a lot of fruit and vegetables, nuts, seeds, and grains. Also, consider foods that are high in lean protein and fiber and low in bad cholesterol, or LDL. rnBesides, food like avocados will help lower harmful cholesterol levels.

• Exercise

Cardiovascular exercise and strength training will help increase your human growth hormone and testosterone levels, which are necessary for healthy erections and a healthy sex drive.

• Erectile Dysfunction Prescriptions

Every man who is experiencing issues in the bedroom area will usually be holding his attention open for details regarding medicines. rnA medication may help with erectile dysfunction.