Erectile Dysfunction
More Common Than You Think
If you’re a Canadian male who hasn’t experienced erectile dysfunction, you’re probably either lying or an exception. A Canadian study of erectile dysfunction identified 49.5 percent of men over age 40 as having ED. Despite being such a common condition, many men still shy away from getting help for it. “The stigma still exists where men are embarrassed and simply don’t want to talk
about their problems,” says Dr. Gerald Brock, urologist at St. Joseph’s Health Care Centre in London, Ontario.
With today’s many effective and minimally invasive treatment options, there’s no need to suffer in silence. “For most men, the use of a pill will restore blood flow to the penis, along with sexual function,” says Dr. Brock. Where low testosterone is the cause of bedroom problems, there are oral medications, topical agents, injections, and even an easy-to-use internasal form to replace this vital male hormone. There are also natural and effective supplements available without the risk of harmful side effects. In some cases, lifestyle changes can also help.
ED can signal other health problems
Love and intimacy aside, there are also valid medical reasons for men to discuss ED with their physicians. “Over the last decade, we’ve come to realize that the earliest sign of cardiovascular disease onset is erectile dysfunction,” says Dr. Brock. “If a man is having poor circulation to his penis, he may also be having poor circulation to his heart, so he should see his doctor.” By diagnosing the underlying cause, and taking appropriate actions, patients can avert a potentially debilitating or even fatal heart attack or stroke.
Erectile dysfunction is nothing to be ashamed of — or anything you need to suffer with. Many men have this problem, and enjoy resuming a healthy sex life after they’re treated.
Talk to your health care professional about the options available to help improve your sexual health.