2. ED caused by chronic excessive alcohol consumption – If you drink alcohol in excess daily or weekly, drinking three or more standard drinks per day, or 30 or more standard drinks per week, you may be putting yourself at risk of developing long-term ED.
Contents
How long does it take for alcohol to cause ED?
Cardiovascular disease and blood vessel damage – It’s well established that ED is closely related to cardiovascular disease, According to a 2018 review, light to moderate drinking is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, while heavy consumption is associated with increased cardiovascular mortality.
- A 2018 study found that heavy alcohol consumption increases your risk of developing high blood pressure,
- High blood pressure is a risk factor for sexual dysfunction.
- Results from human and animal studies suggest that binge drinking is associated with blood vessel damage.
- Alcohol withdrawal syndrome develops when a person who drinks heavily suddenly stops drinking.
It’s been linked to cardiovascular symptoms such as high blood pressure that could potentially interfere with the ability to get an erection. Other common withdrawal symptoms include:
tremors anxiety nausea vomiting headaches high blood pressure irritability confusion
Symptoms usually start 6 to 12 hours after your last drink and are usually most severe after 48 to 72 hours. Although reducing your alcohol intake may cause short-term symptoms that contribute to ED, it will likely improve your sexual health in the long run.
In a 2022 study of 104 people with alcohol use disorder and ED, 88.5 percent showed improvements in ED after 3 months of not consuming alcohol. Alcohol can affect sexual function in people of all genders in a variety of ways. A 2021 study in India included 100 participants who were categorized as males with alcohol dependence syndrome.
The researchers found that 48 participants had sexual dysfunction. Of those 48:
87.5 percent reported lower sex drive79.1 percent had dysfunction of sexual arousal58 percent had ED54 percent reported difficulty reaching orgasm
Alcohol consumption may also:
delay ejaculation increase sex drive with moderate amounts of alcohol, but lower sex drive with high amounts of alcohol
In people assigned female at birth, alcohol may:
lead to vaginal dryness make it more difficult to orgasm increase sexual desire with small amounts of alcohol but decrease sexual arousal with large amounts of alcohol
Experiencing ED occasionally is normal and no reason for concern. It can occur if you’ve been drinking or feeling stressed or anxious, However, it’s a good idea to see a doctor if it becomes a regular problem. Sometimes ED can be a sign of an underlying health condition like high blood pressure.
drinking alone and in secrecylosing interest in activities other than drinkingcraving alcoholexperiencing withdrawal symptomsmaking drinking a priority over other responsibilitiesdrinking in the morninginability to control the amount of alcohol you consumealcohol contributing to financial or family problems
Consuming alcohol can contribute to the development of ED by:
slowing down your central nervous systemcausing dehydrationlowering your testosterone levels
Long-term consumption of alcohol can lead to damage to your blood vessels and nerves. It’s normal to experience ED every now and then, especially when you’re drinking. If you regularly have trouble maintaining an erection when you’re sober or after only drinking small amounts of alcohol, it’s a good idea to visit a doctor to rule out an underlying health condition.
Does alcohol cause permanent erectile dysfunction?
Can alcohol abuse really cause erectile dysfunction? – Yes, the evidence from studies carried out in different countries across the globe is overwhelming: there is a clear and definite correlation between excessive alcohol consumption and erectile dysfunction.
How much does alcohol affect erectile dysfunction?
How alcohol affects sex – Alcohol reduces your sexual sensitivity. For men, alcohol depresses the central nervous system which means it can make it difficult for some men to get, and keep, an erection. Drinking may also prevent or delay orgasm.1 Drinking heavily over an extended period can even turn a temporary condition into longer term impotence.2 Like men, women may also find it more difficult to have an orgasm, or find they have orgasms that are less intense after drinking alcohol.3 If you choose to drink, the UK low risk drinking guidelines advise that it’s safest for both men and women to drink no more than 14 units a week, spread over three or more days with several drink-free days, and no bingeing.
How long after quitting alcohol does ED improve?
Abstract – Background: There is a compelling evidence for the relation between alcohol use and erectile dysfunction (ED), however the impact of alcohol abstinence on improvement of ED is explored sparsely. Aim: This study aimed to determine the impact of alcohol abstinence on ED. The association between total duration of drinking, the quantity of alcohol consumed, sociodemographic, clinical variables and ED were also studied. Methods: One hundred and four subjects with alcohol use disorder and complaints of ED meeting the inclusion and exclusion criteria were recruited into the study after taking written informed consent. The subjects were assessed at baseline and after 3 months of abstinence from alcohol with IIEF-5 and a specially designed pro forma. Wilcoxon signed rank test was used to assess the change in ED after 3 months of abstinence. Chi square test was done to assess the associations and binary logistic regression was done to determine the significance of variables after 3 months of abstinence. Outcomes: Improvement in ED after 3 months of abstinence from alcohol and its association between socio demographic and clinical variables were assessed. Results: Of the 104 subjects studied, 88.5% (92) showed improvement in ED after 3 months of abstinence from alcohol. Wilcoxon signed rank test showed that the improvement in ED after 3 months of abstinence was significant. (Z = 8.708, P <,001). Significant association was found between age, alcoholic liver disease, total duration of drinking, and number of standard drinks per day with ED after 3 months of abstinence. Clinical implications: Information that ED will improve with abstinence from alcohol can be used in deaddiction treatment to provide a motivation for change. Strength and limitations: This study aims to fill the gap in literature as only a few studies have examined the impact of abstinence from alcohol on ED. The main limitations of this study are short follow up period and since this study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital it could have given rise to Berksonian bias. Conclusion: Results indicate that ED shows improvement with abstinence from alcohol. Absence of alcoholic liver disease, younger age, shorter duration of drinking, lesser number of standard drinks per day had a significant influence in the improvement of ED with alcohol abstinence and this information can be beneficial in treatment to provide an impetus for change. Karunakaran A., Michael J.P. The Impact of Abstinence From Alcohol on Erectile Dysfunction: A Prospective Follow up in Patients With Alcohol Use Disorder. J Sex Med 2022;19:581-589. Keywords: Abstinence; Alcohol Induced; Alcohol Use Disorder; Impotence; India. Copyright © 2022 International Society for Sexual Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Can erectile dysfunction be temporary?
Erectile dysfunction, or ED, is a common sexual condition that affects around 30 million men in the United States. If you have ED, you might find it difficult to get an erection consistently or to sustain an erection for long enough to have satisfying, pleasurable sex.
Although many cases of erectile dysfunction are long-term in nature, others are temporary and may occur as a result of problems such as sexual performance anxiety, alcohol consumption or use of certain types of medication. Below, we’ve talked about what temporary erectile dysfunction is, as well as the factors that may cause it to affect your sexual performance.
We’ve also explained how you can treat temporary erectile dysfunction with medication, lifestyle and habit changes, therapeutic approaches and more.
Can quitting drinking cure ED?
In a small study of 100 people quitting alcohol, over 88 percent saw an improvement in erectile function after three months, with 61 percent experiencing no erectile dysfunction.
Does masturbation cause ED?
The masturbation and erectile dysfunction myth – It’s a common belief that masturbating too much can cause erectile dysfunction (ED). ED happens when you can’t get or maintain an erection. This is a myth that’s not based on facts. Masturbation does not directly cause erectile dysfunction in men.
How long does temporary erectile dysfunction last?
You’ve never had issues maintaining a strong erection before, but you’re now experiencing what over 50% of men between 40 and 70 regularly go through: erectile dysfunction, These issues may be common, but that doesn’t make them any less distressing. The first couple of times you have trouble keeping an erection long enough for satisfying sex, you might panic internally and wonder if these erectile problems are here to stay.
- In some cases, you might be experiencing temporary erectile dysfunction, usually caused by specific situations or medications.
- We’ll explore temporary erectile dysfunction in this article, but rest assured, even if your erectile dysfunction isn’t temporary, there are effective treatments that can help.
Temporary erectile dysfunction (ED) isn’t an official medical diagnosis; it’s a general term referring to ED that starts for a short period, then goes away. Some researchers say a person shouldn’t get a diagnosis of erectile dysfunction unless they’ve had symptoms for at least 6 months,
By that definition, you could say temporary ED is when symptoms improve within 6 months. Typically, cases like these come from a medication or medical condition that causes ED until you stop the medication or treat the medical condition. It can also happen when a particular situation causes ED to occur, often because of anxiety related to the situation.
When that circumstance resolves, or the anxiety related to it subsides, you’ll often regain normal sexual function. Even if you think you know what might be causing your erectile dysfunction, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider about what’s going on if you’re noticing more issues with maintaining an erection than you used to.
- Not being able to get an erection when you want to (or when it’s expected—like when you’re sleeping or when you wake up in the morning )
- Losing erections more quickly than you or your partner would like for satisfying sex
These symptoms are the same whether you’ve been struggling with ED for a while (say, longer than 6 months), or if it’s a new issue you have good reason to believe is temporary. It’s important to understand that, while there’s a physiological side of things—for instance, if you’re not getting erections when you wake up in the morning—there’s also a subjective side of things.
The researchers don’t define how quickly you need to lose your erection to be classified as having ED; it’s up to you and your partner to decide if you’re maintaining an erection long enough for sex to be satisfying for both of you. That amount of time is going to be different for every person, but your subjective experience of your sexual activity is extremely important in diagnosing and treating ED.
There isn’t a single cause of ED. Many risk factors could be at play, and it often comes from multiple causes at once. Some possible underlying causes include medical conditions, such as (Sooriyamoorthy, 2022):
- Heart disease
- Type 2 diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Peyronie’s disease
- Obesity
- Neurological diseases (like multiple sclerosis)
- Low testosterone ( hypogonadism )
- Psychological disorders (like depression or anxiety)
ED can also be a side effect of certain medications, or can come from physical trauma to the pelvis or spinal cord, or from certain surgeries. The full list of possible causes of erectile dysfunction is quite long, but this abbreviated list should already give you a good picture that this condition is complex and can come from a lot of different places.
- Specific medications that can trigger ED, which will go away when you stop the medication
- Certain medical conditions that can cause ED until they’re treated
The most common medications that can lead to ED are SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, the most common class of antidepressants ), antipsychotic medications, some blood pressure medications, and opioids. If you experience ED with any of these medications, don’t stop the medication without your provider’s medical advice.
Instead, speak with your healthcare provider about the possibility of switching to a different medication to treat your condition. For some men, low testosterone may contribute to ED, but treating low T can be complicated in men trying to conceive. This is because testosterone replacement therapy ( TRT ) lowers sperm production,
Some men use a drug called Clomid instead, which can raise testosterone levels without affecting sperm production. Others may wait to start TRT until they have finished building their family. Either way, ED from this cause is typically temporary, until the underlying condition has been resolved.
Other medical conditions, like atherosclerosis and hypertension, can also lead to ED, and it’s possible that treating those underlying conditions could resolve the blood flow issues leading to erectile problems. Often, though, once those health conditions have progressed to the point where they’re affecting your ability to get and maintain erections, you probably won’t be able to fully resolve the issue.
Luckily, there are many effective treatments for ED in those cases. A common cause of erectile dysfunction is sexual performance anxiety, where someone can experience so much anxiety around their ability to perform that it causes them to lose their erection (or be unable to get one in the first place).
Sometimes, this can happen after a person has had a couple of experiences of erectile trouble, and it can create a bad cycle where trouble getting an erection leads to performance anxiety, which then leads to ongoing erectile dysfunction. In some cases, a person may experience ED at the start of a new relationship, where the pressure to perform may feel more intense, causing sexual performance anxiety.
This is usually temporary and can improve as a person gets more comfortable in the relationship. Another situation that can bring on ED temporarily is excessive alcohol consumption, While you might think alcohol can get you in the mood, many men find it causes them to lose their erection quickly or to experience premature ejaculation,
- The treatments for temporary ED are mostly the same as those for ongoing ED.
- There are several effective medication options, lifestyle factors that can help, and in some cases, therapy may be recommended.
- Where treatment differs for temporary erectile dysfunction vs.
- Long-term ED is when it comes to more invasive options, like surgical procedures ( penile implants ) or penile injections,
Those are usually a last resort, so they likely wouldn’t be recommended if your ED has only been going on for a short period of time. Whether you have temporary or long-term ED, your healthcare provider will most likely recommend starting your erectile dysfunction treatment with a type of drug called a PDE-5 inhibitor.
- These oral medications work by inhibiting an enzyme called phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5), which causes a cascade of effects that ultimately open up the blood vessels and help more blood flow into the penis.
- Since blood flow to the penis is an essential part of how erections work, these drugs make it possible for most people to get an erection when sexually stimulated.
The most common PDE-5 inhibitors include:
- Viagra (sildenafil)
- Cialis (tadalafil)
- Levitra (vardenafil)
- Stendra (avanafil)
These medications all have different dosages, and last for different amounts of time in the body. They can all be taken on an as-needed basis, generally within a couple of hours of when you plan to have sexual intercourse. They do not cause you to have an instant erection; rather, they set the stage so you’re able to get an erection if you want to, with sexual stimulation.
Ro offers visits with licensed healthcare providers and discrete delivery of medications straight to your door, if prescribed. Erections are surprisingly complex, and many things need to be working properly for them to happen as they should. One of the keys to a healthy erection is proper blood flow to the penis, which requires good blood flow throughout the body.
So, that means if your overall health isn’t great, you’re more likely to experience erection problems. That’s why conditions like cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and type 2 diabetes can contribute to ED, since these conditions all affect blood flow.
- Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced, healthy diet and regular exercise is important for your overall health, and that extends to your erectile function.
- Whether your ED is new, or you’ve been experiencing it for a while, adopting healthy lifestyle habits is a good idea, along with any medical interventions you decide to make.
When it comes to the role of psychological factors in erectile dysfunction, it’s often a chicken-or-egg situation: Did psychological causes lead to ED, or has ED caused psychological issues to crop up? It’s often hard to know which came first, but it doesn’t entirely matter.
What’s important is recognizing that conditions like depression and anxiety can contribute to ED, but having ED can take a huge toll on a person’s mental health and self-esteem, and can often lead to depression or anxiety over time. Psychotherapy can be very helpful in managing the psychological aspect of ED.
Some researchers have found that people with ED get better results from sildenafil (aka generic Viagra ) and other ED treatments when taken in conjunction with psychotherapy, One promising new approach to psychotherapy for ED is called cognitive behavioral sex therapy, based on the principles of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT),
- It’s in the early stages of development but may offer added help for managing erectile dysfunction or other sexual dysfunction,
- If you’re experiencing difficulty getting or maintaining an erection, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider.
- Regardless of how long this issue has been going on, even if it’s new and you think it’s short-term, there are many treatment options that can help.
You deserve a satisfying sex life, and your healthcare provider can help you find the right path to get there. If you have any medical questions or concerns, please talk to your healthcare provider. The articles on Health Guide are underpinned by peer-reviewed research and information drawn from medical societies and governmental agencies.
- Acharya, R.K., Panigrahi, S., Samani, M.J., & Choudhary, A.K. (2022). Prevalence and pattern of sexual dysfunction in male patients with alcohol dependence. Addiction & Health, 14 (3), 192–197. doi:10.34172/ahj.2022.1335. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36544980/
- Berger, M.H., Messore, M., Pastuszak, A.W., & Ramasamy, R. (2016). Association between infertility and sexual dysfunction in men and women. Sexual Medicine Reviews, 4 (4), 353–365. doi:10.1016/j.sxmr.2016.05.002. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27872029/
- Bilal, A. & Abbasi, N.U.H. (2020). Cognitive behavioral sex therapy: an emerging treatment option for nonorganic erectile dysfunction in young men: a feasibility pilot study. Sexual Medicine, 8 (3), 396–407. doi:10.1016/j.esxm.2020.05.005. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7471093/
- Dewitte, M., Bettocchi, C., Carvalho, J., et al. (2021). A psychosocial approach to erectile dysfunction: position statements from the European Society of Sexual Medicine (ESSM). Sexual Medicine, 9 (6), 100434. doi:10.1016/j.esxm.2021.100434. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8766276/
- Landmark, B.F., Almås, E., Brurberg, K.G., et al. (2012). The effects of sexual therapy interventions for sexual problems. Knowledge Centre for the Health Services at The Norwegian Institute of Public Health (NIPH), No.02-2012. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29319959/
- Melnik, T., Soares, B.G., & Nasello, A.G. (2008). The effectiveness of psychological interventions for the treatment of erectile dysfunction: systematic review and meta-analysis, including comparisons to sildenafil treatment, intracavernosal injection, and vacuum devices. The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 5 (11), 2562–2574. doi:10.1111/j.1743-6109.2008.00872.x. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18564156/
- Patel, A.S., Leong, J.Y., Ramos, L., & Ramasamy, R. (2019). Testosterone is a contraceptive and should not be used in men who desire fertility. The World Journal of Men’s Health, 37 (1), 45–54. doi:10.5534/wjmh.180036. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6305868/
- Sooriyamoorthy, T. & Leslie, S.W. (2022). Erectile dysfunction. StatPearls, Retrieved on Mar.12, 2023 from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK562253/
Dr. Chimene Richa is a board-certified Ophthalmologist and Senior Medical Writer/Reviewer at Ro.
What makes a man weak in bed?
4. Manage anxiety and stress – Anxiety and stress can make it hard to get or maintain an erection. These feelings can also distract people from sexual intimacy. If a man feels anxious about how he will perform sexually, he may feel less excited about sex and less engaged during it. Strategies for managing anxiety and stress include:
focusing more on physical sensations than sexual performanceexercisinggetting more sleepworking to improve relationshipsmeditatingspending more time on a favorite hobbygoing to therapytaking psychiatric medications
Can long term ED reversed?
Erectile dysfunction is a common experience. It is often possible to reverse it, either with or without medication. Relaxation techniques and pelvic floor exercises may help, and medical treatment is also available. Most males experience at least one episode of being unable to achieve an erection when desired.
In extreme cases, they may be unable ever to have or sustain an erection. Erectile dysfunction (ED) is very common, affecting an estimated 30 million men in America. Most cases of ED occur in men who were previously able to sustain an erection. The condition is usually reversible, but the chances of completely curing ED depend on the underlying cause.
Read on to learn about natural and medicinal ways to reverse ED. In many cases, yes, erectile dysfunction can be reversed. A study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found a remission rate of 29 percent after 5 years. It is important to note that even when ED cannot be cured, the right treatment can reduce or eliminate symptoms.
Primary ED occurs when a man has never been able to have or sustain an erection. This is rare. Secondary ED occurs in people who once had regular erectile function. This is the most common type.
Secondary ED can be reversed and is often temporary. Primary ED may require more intensive and medical-based treatments. ED is usually treatable with medication or surgery. However, a person may be able to treat the underlying cause and reverse symptoms with no medication.
- The best treatment may depend on the person.
- Some find that traditional treatments, such as surgery or medication, do not work.
- These men may have success using a penis pump, which draws blood into the penis and induces an erection.
- Methods for reversing ED fall into three categories: Short-term treatments These help with achieving or maintaining erections but do not address the underlying cause of ED.
For example, sildenafil (Viagra) increases blood flow to the penis, which can provide short-term relief from ED. It may help people with conditions such as diabetes and atherosclerosis to get erections. Addressing the underlying cause Primary treatments address the issue that is causing ED. Share on Pinterest Psychological treatments may help to reduce anxiety and increase self-confidence. The cause of ED may be psychological, and the condition itself may lead to anxiety, Psychological treatments can reduce anxiety, increase self-confidence, and improve relationships with sexual partners.
Also, these changes may increase the odds that other treatments are effective. Some men find that intense anxiety about sex prevents certain treatments from working. Addressing this anxiety can improve overall results. See a doctor to check for any underlying health issues. ED can be the first sign of diabetes-related nerve damage, cardiovascular disease, or a neurological problem.
While the cause of ED may be physical, the condition can still have psychological effects. It may lead to self-consciousness or anxiety, which can make it more difficult to get an erection. A treatment plan may, therefore, include both physical and psychological methods.
using relaxation exercises to manage ED-related stress and control blood pressure exercising to improve blood flowlosing weight, when necessary, to lower blood pressure and improve cholesterol and testosterone levelschanging the diet, which may especially benefit people with diabetes or cardiovascular disease
2. Pelvic floor exercises The pelvic floor muscles help men to urinate and ejaculate. Strengthening these muscles may also improve erectile function. A comprehensive 2010 review found that pelvic floor exercises may help men with diabetes to get and maintain erections.
Discuss pelvic floor physical therapy with a doctor to learn which exercises are most effective.3. Counseling or couples’ therapy ED can negatively impact self-esteem. It may be difficult to talk about, but the issue is common. It is important to acknowledge and discuss ED, particularly when it causes depression or anxiety.
Individual counseling can aid in uncovering the cause of the problem. A psychologist or psychiatrist can help an individual to manage their anxiety and resolve issues, which can eliminate ED and prevent it from returning. Couples’ therapy can help sexual partners to talk through their feelings and find healthful, constructive ways to communicate about ED.4.
Herbal and alternative remedies Some men find that alternative and complementary therapies, such as acupuncture, help with ED. Preliminary research suggests that some herbal supplements may also help. A 2018 review found that ginseng preparations significantly improved symptoms of ED in the population studied.
Preparations of maritime pine extract, Pinus pinaster, and maca, Lepidium meyenii, also showed promising results, but more research is needed. Methods of alternative medicine are safest when used under the guidance of a doctor and in conjunction with other treatments.5.
- Medication A wide variety of medications can help with ED.
- The best-known are drugs, such as tadalafil ( Cialis ) and Viagra, which increase blood flow to the penis and help to achieve an erection.
- These can be effective when that cause of ED is physical, and they also work well when the cause is unknown or related to anxiety.
If an underlying condition, such as diabetes, is causing ED, treating it will often reverse ED or prevent it from worsening.6. Medication changes Some medications can make ED worse. Blood pressure medication, for example, may lower blood flow to the penis, making it harder to get an erection.
- Anyone who suspects that ED is associated with a medication should tell a doctor.
- Alternative drugs are often available.7.
- Mechanical devices Penis pumps can draw blood into the penis and induce an erection in most men, including those with severe nerve damage.
- When there is severe nerve or blood vessel damage, using a ring can help to keep blood in the penis.
Even when serious physical health issues are present, a mechanical device can usually help with getting an erection.8. Surgery If other strategies are ineffective, or when there is an anatomical cause of ED, a doctor may recommend surgery. The procedure involves implanting a device that enables immediate erections.
Surgery is effective in most cases, and the rate of complications is less than 5 percent, Some people feel frustration about ED. It is important to remember that the condition is treatable. ED is very common and can usually be reversed by using natural remedies or medications to treat the underlying cause.
Early intervention can often detect a serious medical condition, and determining the cause of ED early may increase the likelihood of reversing it. Speak with a doctor about the best course of treatment.
How many drinks a night is a heavy drinker?
Heavy Alcohol Use: –
NIAAA defines heavy drinking as follows:
For men, consuming more than 4 drinks on any day or more than 14 drinks per week For women, consuming more than 3 drinks on any day or more than 7 drinks per week
SAMHSA defines heavy alcohol use as binge drinking on 5 or more days in the past month.
Is ED always permanent?
Some causes of ED are reversible or curable. This means that after addressing the underlying cause, you’ll be able to get an erection without medication. But ED is often due to several underlying causes. A cure may not be possible in these situations, but medications can help.
Why can’t I stay hard at 25?
Erectile dysfunction becomes more likely with age, as testosterone levels fall. However, it can also affect younger males due to factors such as stress, excess weight, and some underlying health conditions. Erectile dysfunction (ED), once called impotence, occurs when the penis does not receive enough blood to produce an erection for satisfactory intercourse.
ED is very common — most males experience difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection at some point. According to some estimates, ED affects 30 million males in the United States alone. This article looks at how aging affects ED. We also explore the risk factors, causes, and treatments. Many people think of erectile problems as an older adult’s issue, but they can affect younger males, as well.
According to some estimates, ED affects 8% of males aged 20–29 years and 11% of those aged 30–39 years. The data also suggest that the number of people under 40 seeking medical attention for ED is increasing. Many factors that contribute to ED can occur at any age.
having anxiety, depression, or feelings of shame or guilt about sexual activityexperiencing significant stress, about sex or something elsesmokingdrinking alcohol in excessusing recreational drugshaving overweight or obesity having a lack of physical activityusing workout supplements, testosterone boosters, or over-the-counter erectile aids
At any age, making adjustments such as lowering levels of stress and exercising more frequently can help improve erectile problems and boost overall health. Age is a main risk factor for ED. According to some estimates, males have a 40% chance of having some form of ED by their 40s.
The risk then increases about 10% per decade. While people are more likely to develop ED as they get older, aging does not directly cause it. ED is not a normal part of aging — some males are sexually active into their 80s, However, as people get older, they are more likely to develop medical conditions that increase the risk of ED.
These include:
type 2 diabetes high blood pressure, or hypertensiona buildup of plaque in the arteries, called atherosclerosis low testosterone levels, or hypogonadism obesity
In fact, diabetes and atherosclerosis are the two most common medical problems that cause ED. Meanwhile, erectile problems can be a side effect of medications that people are more likely to take as they get older, such as blood pressure medications, tranquilizers, and ulcer medications.
These vary widely and can include psychological, neurological, and lifestyle-related factors. ED can also be a side effect of some medications. Stress, anxiety, and lifestyle factors can contribute to ED at any age, while physical factors are more likely to play a role for older adults. Physical causes include conditions that affect the vascular system, the nervous system, or the hormone system.
Some of these causes include:
mental health issues, such as stress and anxietysleep disturbances, such as sleep apnea high blood pressureheart or blood vessel diseaseatherosclerosisobesity chronic kidney disease Peyronie’s disease, or penile curvaturehypogonadismpenile abnormalities, such as those affecting the foreskininjury to the penis, spinal cord, prostate, bladder, or pelvis
In many cases, ED is caused by factors such as an unhealthful diet, a high level of stress, a lack of exercise, and smoking. By addressing these issues, people can often improve or resolve their ED symptoms. However, even if a person suspects that they know the cause of their ED, they should still see a doctor for a diagnosis.
be able to get an erection, but not every time they want tohave erections that do not last as long as desiredbe unable to have an erection
It is important to note that occasional trouble with erections is common for males. If these issues happen regularly or are getting progressively worse, however, it can signal ED, and the person may benefit from treatment. Physical complications of ED are generally mild.
stress or anxiety about sexual activitylow self-esteememotional distressrelationship problems
Younger adults may find ED particularly uncomfortable to manage or talk about, due to the misconception that it only affects older people. In actuality, ED is relatively common in younger males. The best approach varies from person to person — some find that changing lifestyle factors is enough to resolve their ED, while others require professional treatment, such as medication.
Do people with ED still get morning wood?
You have ED, but still get morning wood – If you’ve experienced ED, but you do still get morning wood it means your body is healthy enough to produce erections, so the problem likely isn’t physical, but in your mind. If your ED is psychological it’s good news for your health.
But just because a problem is in your head it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s going to be easy to fix. You’ll probably need to speak to a mental health professional to address it. Even if you’re convinced your ED is psychological it’s still worth seeing your doctor to get your health checked as sometimes ED can be caused by both psychological and physical problems.
It’s best to make sure.
How long does temporary erectile dysfunction last?
You’ve never had issues maintaining a strong erection before, but you’re now experiencing what over 50% of men between 40 and 70 regularly go through: erectile dysfunction, These issues may be common, but that doesn’t make them any less distressing. The first couple of times you have trouble keeping an erection long enough for satisfying sex, you might panic internally and wonder if these erectile problems are here to stay.
- In some cases, you might be experiencing temporary erectile dysfunction, usually caused by specific situations or medications.
- We’ll explore temporary erectile dysfunction in this article, but rest assured, even if your erectile dysfunction isn’t temporary, there are effective treatments that can help.
Temporary erectile dysfunction (ED) isn’t an official medical diagnosis; it’s a general term referring to ED that starts for a short period, then goes away. Some researchers say a person shouldn’t get a diagnosis of erectile dysfunction unless they’ve had symptoms for at least 6 months,
By that definition, you could say temporary ED is when symptoms improve within 6 months. Typically, cases like these come from a medication or medical condition that causes ED until you stop the medication or treat the medical condition. It can also happen when a particular situation causes ED to occur, often because of anxiety related to the situation.
When that circumstance resolves, or the anxiety related to it subsides, you’ll often regain normal sexual function. Even if you think you know what might be causing your erectile dysfunction, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider about what’s going on if you’re noticing more issues with maintaining an erection than you used to.
- Not being able to get an erection when you want to (or when it’s expected—like when you’re sleeping or when you wake up in the morning )
- Losing erections more quickly than you or your partner would like for satisfying sex
These symptoms are the same whether you’ve been struggling with ED for a while (say, longer than 6 months), or if it’s a new issue you have good reason to believe is temporary. It’s important to understand that, while there’s a physiological side of things—for instance, if you’re not getting erections when you wake up in the morning—there’s also a subjective side of things.
The researchers don’t define how quickly you need to lose your erection to be classified as having ED; it’s up to you and your partner to decide if you’re maintaining an erection long enough for sex to be satisfying for both of you. That amount of time is going to be different for every person, but your subjective experience of your sexual activity is extremely important in diagnosing and treating ED.
There isn’t a single cause of ED. Many risk factors could be at play, and it often comes from multiple causes at once. Some possible underlying causes include medical conditions, such as (Sooriyamoorthy, 2022):
- Heart disease
- Type 2 diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Peyronie’s disease
- Obesity
- Neurological diseases (like multiple sclerosis)
- Low testosterone ( hypogonadism )
- Psychological disorders (like depression or anxiety)
ED can also be a side effect of certain medications, or can come from physical trauma to the pelvis or spinal cord, or from certain surgeries. The full list of possible causes of erectile dysfunction is quite long, but this abbreviated list should already give you a good picture that this condition is complex and can come from a lot of different places.
- Specific medications that can trigger ED, which will go away when you stop the medication
- Certain medical conditions that can cause ED until they’re treated
The most common medications that can lead to ED are SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, the most common class of antidepressants ), antipsychotic medications, some blood pressure medications, and opioids. If you experience ED with any of these medications, don’t stop the medication without your provider’s medical advice.
- Instead, speak with your healthcare provider about the possibility of switching to a different medication to treat your condition.
- For some men, low testosterone may contribute to ED, but treating low T can be complicated in men trying to conceive.
- This is because testosterone replacement therapy ( TRT ) lowers sperm production,
Some men use a drug called Clomid instead, which can raise testosterone levels without affecting sperm production. Others may wait to start TRT until they have finished building their family. Either way, ED from this cause is typically temporary, until the underlying condition has been resolved.
- Other medical conditions, like atherosclerosis and hypertension, can also lead to ED, and it’s possible that treating those underlying conditions could resolve the blood flow issues leading to erectile problems.
- Often, though, once those health conditions have progressed to the point where they’re affecting your ability to get and maintain erections, you probably won’t be able to fully resolve the issue.
Luckily, there are many effective treatments for ED in those cases. A common cause of erectile dysfunction is sexual performance anxiety, where someone can experience so much anxiety around their ability to perform that it causes them to lose their erection (or be unable to get one in the first place).
Sometimes, this can happen after a person has had a couple of experiences of erectile trouble, and it can create a bad cycle where trouble getting an erection leads to performance anxiety, which then leads to ongoing erectile dysfunction. In some cases, a person may experience ED at the start of a new relationship, where the pressure to perform may feel more intense, causing sexual performance anxiety.
This is usually temporary and can improve as a person gets more comfortable in the relationship. Another situation that can bring on ED temporarily is excessive alcohol consumption, While you might think alcohol can get you in the mood, many men find it causes them to lose their erection quickly or to experience premature ejaculation,
- The treatments for temporary ED are mostly the same as those for ongoing ED.
- There are several effective medication options, lifestyle factors that can help, and in some cases, therapy may be recommended.
- Where treatment differs for temporary erectile dysfunction vs.
- Long-term ED is when it comes to more invasive options, like surgical procedures ( penile implants ) or penile injections,
Those are usually a last resort, so they likely wouldn’t be recommended if your ED has only been going on for a short period of time. Whether you have temporary or long-term ED, your healthcare provider will most likely recommend starting your erectile dysfunction treatment with a type of drug called a PDE-5 inhibitor.
These oral medications work by inhibiting an enzyme called phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5), which causes a cascade of effects that ultimately open up the blood vessels and help more blood flow into the penis. Since blood flow to the penis is an essential part of how erections work, these drugs make it possible for most people to get an erection when sexually stimulated.
The most common PDE-5 inhibitors include:
- Viagra (sildenafil)
- Cialis (tadalafil)
- Levitra (vardenafil)
- Stendra (avanafil)
These medications all have different dosages, and last for different amounts of time in the body. They can all be taken on an as-needed basis, generally within a couple of hours of when you plan to have sexual intercourse. They do not cause you to have an instant erection; rather, they set the stage so you’re able to get an erection if you want to, with sexual stimulation.
- Ro offers visits with licensed healthcare providers and discrete delivery of medications straight to your door, if prescribed.
- Erections are surprisingly complex, and many things need to be working properly for them to happen as they should.
- One of the keys to a healthy erection is proper blood flow to the penis, which requires good blood flow throughout the body.
So, that means if your overall health isn’t great, you’re more likely to experience erection problems. That’s why conditions like cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and type 2 diabetes can contribute to ED, since these conditions all affect blood flow.
- Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced, healthy diet and regular exercise is important for your overall health, and that extends to your erectile function.
- Whether your ED is new, or you’ve been experiencing it for a while, adopting healthy lifestyle habits is a good idea, along with any medical interventions you decide to make.
When it comes to the role of psychological factors in erectile dysfunction, it’s often a chicken-or-egg situation: Did psychological causes lead to ED, or has ED caused psychological issues to crop up? It’s often hard to know which came first, but it doesn’t entirely matter.
What’s important is recognizing that conditions like depression and anxiety can contribute to ED, but having ED can take a huge toll on a person’s mental health and self-esteem, and can often lead to depression or anxiety over time. Psychotherapy can be very helpful in managing the psychological aspect of ED.
Some researchers have found that people with ED get better results from sildenafil (aka generic Viagra ) and other ED treatments when taken in conjunction with psychotherapy, One promising new approach to psychotherapy for ED is called cognitive behavioral sex therapy, based on the principles of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT),
It’s in the early stages of development but may offer added help for managing erectile dysfunction or other sexual dysfunction, If you’re experiencing difficulty getting or maintaining an erection, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider. Regardless of how long this issue has been going on, even if it’s new and you think it’s short-term, there are many treatment options that can help.
You deserve a satisfying sex life, and your healthcare provider can help you find the right path to get there. If you have any medical questions or concerns, please talk to your healthcare provider. The articles on Health Guide are underpinned by peer-reviewed research and information drawn from medical societies and governmental agencies.
- Acharya, R.K., Panigrahi, S., Samani, M.J., & Choudhary, A.K. (2022). Prevalence and pattern of sexual dysfunction in male patients with alcohol dependence. Addiction & Health, 14 (3), 192–197. doi:10.34172/ahj.2022.1335. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36544980/
- Berger, M.H., Messore, M., Pastuszak, A.W., & Ramasamy, R. (2016). Association between infertility and sexual dysfunction in men and women. Sexual Medicine Reviews, 4 (4), 353–365. doi:10.1016/j.sxmr.2016.05.002. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27872029/
- Bilal, A. & Abbasi, N.U.H. (2020). Cognitive behavioral sex therapy: an emerging treatment option for nonorganic erectile dysfunction in young men: a feasibility pilot study. Sexual Medicine, 8 (3), 396–407. doi:10.1016/j.esxm.2020.05.005. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7471093/
- Dewitte, M., Bettocchi, C., Carvalho, J., et al. (2021). A psychosocial approach to erectile dysfunction: position statements from the European Society of Sexual Medicine (ESSM). Sexual Medicine, 9 (6), 100434. doi:10.1016/j.esxm.2021.100434. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8766276/
- Landmark, B.F., Almås, E., Brurberg, K.G., et al. (2012). The effects of sexual therapy interventions for sexual problems. Knowledge Centre for the Health Services at The Norwegian Institute of Public Health (NIPH), No.02-2012. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29319959/
- Melnik, T., Soares, B.G., & Nasello, A.G. (2008). The effectiveness of psychological interventions for the treatment of erectile dysfunction: systematic review and meta-analysis, including comparisons to sildenafil treatment, intracavernosal injection, and vacuum devices. The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 5 (11), 2562–2574. doi:10.1111/j.1743-6109.2008.00872.x. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18564156/
- Patel, A.S., Leong, J.Y., Ramos, L., & Ramasamy, R. (2019). Testosterone is a contraceptive and should not be used in men who desire fertility. The World Journal of Men’s Health, 37 (1), 45–54. doi:10.5534/wjmh.180036. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6305868/
- Sooriyamoorthy, T. & Leslie, S.W. (2022). Erectile dysfunction. StatPearls, Retrieved on Mar.12, 2023 from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK562253/
Dr. Chimene Richa is a board-certified Ophthalmologist and Senior Medical Writer/Reviewer at Ro.
What alcohol make a man last longer in bed?
Relationship: 5 alcoholic drinks to spice up your sex life These 5 alcoholic drinks are believed to be powerful enough to boost your sexual performance and gift you with a ‘night to remember’
Representational image When it comes to making a romantic night out, a glass of red wine or a bottle of champagne fits best in this category. If you believe in the old school of thought, that drinking alcohol before can worsen things on bed, then it is time for you to think otherwise.
The smooth sips of alcoholic drinks can spice up things underneath the sheets. Here are 5 such alcoholic drinks that are believed to be strong enough to improve your sexual performance.1. Red Wine: The drink makes both men and women horny by increasing their sexual arousal. While drinking two glasses of red wine can boost sex drive in women, drinking one glass is sufficient to increase testosterone in men.
However, do not consume the drink in excess. Limit yourself to two glasses and experience the spice on bed, which you may not have felt otherwise. The passion drink does wonders to your cosy cuddly moments under the sheet.2. Beer: Taking sips from chilled bottles will enhance your performance on bed. Representational image 3. Champagne: The froth and fizz of this ‘elite drink’ is blessed with an amazing property, and i.e. it enhances sex drive. Having a glass of champagne before sex is said to turn the night more romantic and exciting. It increase duration of foreplay, the number of positions and total duration of intercourse.
Representational image 4. Brandy Alexander: This is more of a milk chocolate drink right from the other and not the actual brandy, and chocolate does spice up your sex life. Have a glass of this smooth creamy drink and get set for an out-of-the-world sexual intercourse.
Rather than spending time on researching, simply take the drink and experience the difference. The clock might move slowly and steadily! 5. Tequila: Tequila shots will definitely make your sleeves fall of quickly, especially for women. Tequila shots will gear up your sex drive and bring kind of a euphoric effect, when you are all set to go wild on bed, floor, or bathroom.
While tequila shots do wonders to a men’s sex drive, it is more beneficial for women. Few shots and they will be ready to slip through the body of their man, gently, warmly and passionately. Representational image Which of these drinks are you going to sip together for a great session under the moonlit sky?
Can masturbation cause ED?
The masturbation and erectile dysfunction myth – It’s a common belief that masturbating too much can cause erectile dysfunction (ED). ED happens when you can’t get or maintain an erection. This is a myth that’s not based on facts. Masturbation does not directly cause erectile dysfunction in men.
How do you fix erectile dysfunction at 30?
“Help!!! I have erectile dysfunction and I’m only 30!” Erectile dysfunction (ED) is likely the most difficult and sensitive topic a male patient will have to discuss with their doctor, especially for a patient in their 20s and 30s. The overall societal stigma and awkwardness placed on this condition can lower one’s self esteem and become a barrier to starting this conversation.
Many young men with ED may feel it is impossible for someone their age to have these symptoms. However, approximately 20% of men in their 20s and 30% of men in the 30s suffer from at least mild to moderate symptoms of ED. Fortunately, as primary care physicians, we are fully prepared to have this discussion with our male patients and thoroughly investigate all medical/physical and psychological/emotional causes.
Patients at City Care Family Practice can schedule an appointment anytime to discuss their symptoms, or at the very least, bring it up during a yearly physical. The key is for our patients to feel comfortable broaching this topic with their doctor. Hopefully, the information presented in this article will help do just that.
Interest and desire for sexual activity (libido) The ability to obtain and maintain an erection The ability to ejaculate and climax (orgasm)
The most common form of ED and what we primarily encounter at City Care Family Practice is number 2, the inability to either get an erection at all, or to sustain an erection that will be firm and large enough and last through ejaculation. Less common problems like low sex drive and premature ejaculation can also be discussed with us.
During our initial evaluation of ED, we will always explore and rule out the medical causes of these symptoms first. Common medical or physical causes usually unique to older men (over the age of 40) include diabetes, cardiovascular and kidney disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and low testosterone.
For these causes, treatment for ED is geared towards directly treating these medical conditions first. For men in their 20s and 30s, common medical or physical causes include obesity, alcohol use, cigarette smoking, medication side effects, neurological disease, Peyronie’s disease (abnormal curvature of the penis) and penile injury.
Based on this medical evaluation, we can then help you formulate a plan to treat your ED symptoms by focusing on better lifestyle habits. Ultimately, for men in their 20s and 30s, ED symptoms are most commonly due to psychological or emotional causes which manifest as performance anxiety. As mentioned earlier, the most common form of ED is obtaining and maintaining an erection, and this usually presents when having either oral, vaginal, and/or anal intercourse with another person, and may not present with self-masturbation.
This is usually an initial clue that the primary cause of these symptoms is psychological/emotional. Performance anxiety during sex can be mainly attributed to having a new partner, an increase in common life stressors, and undiagnosed and/or untreated anxiety and depression.
- The physicians at City Care Family Practice can help start your treatment for anxiety and/or depression.
- Developing proper coping mechanisms, using friends and family support systems, seeing a therapist, and taking medication can help remedy these conditions and ultimately treat ED.
- Additional ways we can help treat ED symptoms include discussing in detail your self-masturbation and pornography watching habits and going over proper Kegel exercises.
There are also medications (such as Viagra and Cialis) that we can prescribe if needed to treat ED symptoms. Other forms of treatment (recommended to be done under the supervision of a urologist) include testosterone replacement therapy, using vacuum erection devices, and penile implants.
With patience in finding the treatment that works for you, we can help you overcome the hurdles that erectile dysfunction brings to your sex life. Author Dr. Karthik Karibandi Dr. Karthik Karibandi is a board-certified family physician at City Care Family Practice. He received his medical degree from Albany Medical College and did his training at Albany Medical Center.
During his free time, he enjoys watching sports, live theater, visiting museums, and going to the gym. America is traveling again! That’s good news. There are still many issues to consider, however, before you book your flight or set sail for that dream vacation you’ve been putting off- thanks to COVID.
- Read about the benefits of travel counseling.
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- Think again if you believe those stomach pains, headaches, and other symptoms you experience when you’re stressed, anxious, or depressed are all in your head.
Our team explains the many ways your mental health can affect your physical well-being. Sleep isn’t an isolated activity, it affects every part of your being. Keep reading to learn how sleep (or lack thereof) can affect your mental health. Read here for updates related to the COVID-19 vaccine and helpful links to vaccine centers.