Erectile dysfunction (ED) can be a sensitive and embarrassing subject to talk about but it is a common concern and affects plenty of males throughout the course of their lives. In fact, 50% of men over 50 experience erectile dysfunction (ED) with one in five Irish men experiencing this. Recent research shows that more under 40s suffer from the condition than had previously been thought, about a quarter (26%) and growing. This is mainly due to the rising demand and pressure the younger population are putting on themselves and their mental health.

So, don’t worry – if you’re experiencing ED, you are not alone. ED can easily be treated and Viagra Connect is now available in your local McCauley Pharmacy. Click here for more!

Here’s what we know…

 

Erectile Dysfunction – what is it?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is defined as the inability to gain or maintain an erection firm enough to have sexual intercourse.

Erectile dysfunction isn’t uncommon and most men will experience ED at some point in their lives.  While ED can be a short-term condition caused by things like alcohol, stress, drugs or tiredness, some men will experience erectile dysfunction over a longer period of time. This can be due to a physical or emotional cause.

While Erectile Dysfunction is more common in older men, it can occur at any age.

Frequent ED can be a sign of health problems that need treatment. It can also be a sign of emotional or relationship difficulties that may need to be addressed by a professional.

If you’re experiencing regular erectile dysfunction, please speak to a pharmacist or your GP.

NOTE: Not all men experience the symptoms of erectile dysfunction in the same way. Some men can’t get an erection at all, some men lose their erection before sex, and others can’t get an erection hard enough for sex. If you can’t get or keep an erection long enough for sex, you are experiencing erectile dysfunction. You are not alone, many Irish men – 1 in 3 Irish men have experienced ED and 1 in 5 men experience ED regularly*.

 

Symptoms:

Erectile Dysfunction symptoms can vary from person to person.

You may have ED if you are experiencing any of the following:

• Trouble getting an erection
• Difficulty maintaining an erection during sexual activities
• Reduced interest in sex or little to no sex drive

Other sexual disorders that can be related to ED:

• premature ejaculation
• delayed ejaculation
• anorgasmia, or the inability to achieve orgasm after ample stimulation

Please speak with your Pharmacist or GP if you are suffering with any of these symptoms.

Find your local McCauley Pharmacist here.

 

What causes Erectile Dysfunction?

An erection is a result of increased blood flow into the penis. This is usually stimulated when sexually aroused or by direct contact with the penis. The increase in blood flow into the penis causes the penis to stiffen.

Erectile dysfunction can happen if these vessels are blocked in any way.

ED can be caused by any number of factors. That’s why it’s important to talk to your Pharmacist or GP about your symptoms and they can advise on the best treatment.

 

Diagnosing Erectile Dysfunction

Since ED symptoms can vary, we recommend talking to a healthcare professional before they begin to treat it.  Speak to your Pharmacist or GP if you’re concerned about symptoms.

They will be able to get a full and clear picture of your general health and lifestyle, including any medication you may be on. This is so they can recommend the right treatment for you.

 

Treating Erectile Dysfunction

Symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction can be treated in different ways. Some men may find that symptoms improve or disappear when they change their diet or lifestyle, and others find that drug treatments are more effective.

Oral medicines, such as Viagra Connect, come in tablet form that can easily be ingested. Learn more here.

Other treatments, like implants, penis pumps or injections, psychosexual counselling or further treatment from a specialist urologist are also available.

As ED can be quite complex the same treatment won’t necessarily work for everyone.

Always speak to your Pharmacist or GP before starting treatment.

 

Speaking to your partner about erectile issues?

Ignoring symptoms of erectile dysfunction and resisting talking to your partner about what’s going on is something that might seem tempting to try at first, but it risks hurting you (as it could be a sign of an underlying health issue) and your partner who may be blaming themselves for your erectile issues. ED is a medical condition and is nobody’s fault.

Talking to your partner about your symptoms will help them understand what ED is and help you both while going through the treatment process, and they can support you.

 

Erectile dysfunction can be managed in a number of ways. It may be as ‘simple’ as stopping smoking, or you might consider other treatment options. Whichever you consider, remember that erectile dysfunction is a treatable condition and there is no need for you to suffer with symptoms alone.

If you have any questions about erectile dysfunction and how it can be treated, speak to a McCauley pharmacist today. Find your nearest McCauley pharmacy here.