Erectile dysfunction is a bothersome condition that severely impacts the sex life of millions of men. More commonly known as ED, erectile dysfunction is defined by impaired blood flow to the penis, which can make it difficult for a man to achieve or maintain an erection, regardless of sexual stimulation.
Many men develop erectile dysfunction at some point during their lives, but what is the reason? Several different factors can increase the odds of developing ED. These factors include:
- Prostate problems
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Low HDL levels
- Sleep apnea
- Drug use
- Peyronie’s disease
- Depression
- Alcohol use
- Renal failure
- Smoking
- Neurological conditions
While all of these are considered risk factors for erectile dysfunction, there is one mechanism thought to be the primary cause of the condition.
The main cause of erectile dysfunction is an issue with the blood vessels within the penis. Whether it be a blockage in the blood vessels, arterial hardening, or general poor circulation, erectile dysfunction occurs when the penis cannot get adequate blood flow.
Most men who develop erectile dysfunction are in their late 40s and older, so age is a considerable factor. As you age, multiple factors can impact your blood vessels, and arteries may harden due to underlying conditions or poor nutrition.
Aging can also cause laxity of the muscle walls surrounding the blood vessels, which makes it more difficult to maintain a full erection.
How Can You Treat Erectile Dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction treatment includes a wide variety of options. There are over-the-counter supplements and prescription medications that can help resolve the symptoms. There are also non-invasive procedures that use ultrasound waves to widen the blood vessels.
One approach is regenerative medicine, which can use PRP injections or stem cell therapy to naturally resolve erectile dysfunction.
This post was written by a medical professional at Stemedix Inc. At Stemedix we provide access to Regenerative Medicine. Regenerative medicine has the natural potential to help improve symptoms sometimes lost from the progression of many conditions.