erectile dysfunction It is a problem that affects thousands of men, who sometimes, due to ignorance, fear or shame, choose to remain silent or resort to self-medication. This decision not only unnecessarily prolongs the ailment, but can aggravate the person’s state of health since, many times, this condition is a symptom of another underlying condition.
Dr. Carlos Muñoz, an andrologist urologist at the Urozen Medical Center, comments that sexual function depends on the proper functioning of the cardiovascular system, the heart, blood vessels and the nervous system. The causes of erectile dysfunction range from a purely psychological aspect to underlying complications, such as vascular disorders, circulatory, neurological, endocrine disorders, or a combination thereof.
In this sense, the specialist offers five tips to deal with this condition:
1. Do not self-medicate
Like any medication, prescription drugs for erectile dysfunction cannot be taken without the supervision of a professional. This should consider a history of cardiovascular disease, hypertension, liver problems, or interaction with other medications. Nor should you use substances of dubious origin that are marketed as “miracle” cures, since they do not have scientific support and put your health at risk.
2. balance diet
Eating foods high in saturated fats raises blood cholesterol levels. The fat adheres to the walls of the arteries and prevents the correct flow of blood to the cavernous bodies, which complicates the erection. It is necessary to replace these foods with those that contain omega 3, such as olive oil, avocados, walnuts or pecans. Also, citrus fruits, blueberries or strawberries, which are rich in flavonoids and promote testosterone production. Likewise, the consumption of garlic and onion improves circulation.
3. diabetes management
Patients with diabetes are three times more likely to suffer from erectile dysfunction. That is why it is important to carry out adequate control of the disease in order to avoid damage to the nerves or vessels involved in the erection.
Four. Avoid tobacco and alcohol use
Cigarette smoking is linked to progressive decline in sexual function and erection problems. On the other hand, alcohol, in low amounts, can increase sexual desire and release tension, but if the recommended consumption is exceeded, the body’s response to stimuli slows down and difficulties appear in achieving or maintaining an erection.
5. Choosing a correct therapy
Currently there are various ways to address erectile dysfunction, ranging from oral pharmacological methods, which act in a timely manner to achieve a temporary erection, to basic solutions, such as injections into the corpus cavernosum and intraurethral, vacuum systems VACUM, shock waves or a combination of the treatments described. If there is no response, surgery with penile prosthesis implants, both hydraulic and semi-rigid, is the method of choice. Likewise, it is important to accompany the management of the dysfunction with psychological assistance.
Currently, erectile dysfunction does not have to be a limitation, because if care in lifestyle, diet and the choice of a treatment that comprehensively considers the requirements of the person are taken into account, it can be solved and have a fulfilling sex life.
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