Without proper communication and understanding, impotence can be a source of great misunderstanding and embarrassment. But thankfully those days when the word was muttered in hushed tones are gone. Impotence or erectile dysfunction (ED), as it is also known, is no longer a taboo subject.
But what causes erectile dysfunction (ED), and what treatments are available? Let’s take a look at some possible triggers, and also check out the best medications and natural, herbal remedies.
Causes of ED. Why does it happen?
It’s all about blood flow and the narrowing of blood vessels to the penis, so high blood pressure, high cholesterol or diabetes are pre-cursers. It can also be due to injury, either directly to the penis, or as a result of head on spinal injury. ED can strike at any stage of adulthood, but the incidence among older men is higher due to conditions which cause hardening or obstruction of blood vessels.
Emotional issues
If left unaddressed, ED itself can lead to depression, so communication is vital. Talking candidly with your partner (who may be worried that you have simply lost interest), can itself begin the process of banishing those demons. A few possible anxieties you may not have regarded as triggers to ED are:
- Childhood trauma such as sexual abuse or rejection
- Low image, including being overweight
- Worry over loss of job or debt
- Family planning issues, including trying to conceive
- Relationship issues ― anger is a big libido killer
Physical Causes
Apart from the obvious, such as smoking, recreational drugs and booze, here are a few possible ED triggers:
- Overweight
- Insufficient exercise
- Following bladder or prostate surgery
- Diabetes and cardiovascular conditions
- Nerve damage (including head or spinal injury)
- Over 3 hours a week of cycling with a narrow saddle
Best Herbal (Natural) cures for ED
Certain herbal extracts have stood the test of time as remedies for ED. In pill form, one of their advantages is that they can be taken regularly as a natural panacea. Initially it may take longer to feel the effects, but once they kick in, the benefits are with you constantly, so spontaneity is no problem. Some of the most powerful and effective natural ED supplements are combinations of several tried and tested herbs.
Caution: ‘Natural’ does not mean they are automatically safe to take with certain other medications, so do check that it’s okay to use herbal preparations with any other drugs you are taking, particularly nitrates.
And by the way, it’s important to find the best treatment for you. Everyone is different and what suits one person, or couple, may not prove effective for another. Remember, the choice is yours, so don’t be afraid to experiment. You may need a little patience but you will undoubtedly hit on the best prescription or herbal treatment that will do the trick.
