Once blood is in the penis, pressure traps it within the corpora cavernosa. Smoking, heavy drinking, and drug use disorder can damage the blood vessels and reduce blood flow to your penis. Being overweight and getting too little exercise also raise your odds. Studies show that men who exercise regularly have a lower risk of ED. It’s not uncommon to lose an erection from time to time, especially during periods of increased stress or sudden changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Having trouble achieving a full erection can be frustrating and embarrassing for many men. However, there are several steps you can take to help improve your ability to get and maintain a strong erection.
A psychologist or psychiatrist can help an individual to manage their anxiety and resolve issues, which can eliminate ED and prevent it from returning. 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. Primary ED may require more intensive and medical-based treatments.
Weight gain itself can trigger psychological problems, such as poor body image and low self-esteem, which themselves can contribute towards erectile problems. Find out more about smoking and ED here and whether vaping can affect your erections here. Men who take blood thinners or who are being treated for a blood disorder should check with their doctor before using a vacuum device. You don’t need a prescription to get one, and they can be bought online.
Talking openly about ED will help your partner understand the diagnosis and treatment options. Vacuum devices for ED, also called pumps, offer an alternative to medication. You’ll place your penis inside a cylinder and use a pump to draw the air out. This creates a partial vacuum around your penis, which causes it to fill with blood and leads to an erection. You’ll wear an elastic band around the base of your penis to keep the erection while you have sex.
Healthy Lifestyle Habits
Proper treatment starts with a frank conversation with your doctor. Rest assured your doctor has the same talk with many other people, year in and year out. People with heart disease or kidney disease should discuss the use of PDE5 inhibitors with their doctor. They may prescribe a lower dose, which may or may not help you achieve the results you want.
Sometimes a combination of physical and psychological issues causes erectile dysfunction. For instance, a minor physical condition that slows your sexual response might cause anxiety about maintaining an erection. The resulting anxiety can lead to or worsen erectile dysfunction.
ED may be a side effect of medication, including certain blood pressure drugs and antidepressants. Talk to your doctor if you think a prescription or over-the-counter drug may be causing erectile problems. But never stop taking any medicine before you discuss it with your doctor.
One of the most important factors in achieving a full erection is maintaining a healthy lifestyle. This includes eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption and smoking.
Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise can improve blood flow throughout your body, including to your penis. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week to help improve your overall health and sexual function.
Eat a Balanced Diet
Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help improve blood flow and circulation, which can in turn improve your ability to achieve a full erection.
Seek Medical Help
If you are still having trouble achieving a full erection, it may be time to seek medical help. Your doctor can help determine if there are any underlying health issues contributing to your erectile dysfunction and recommend appropriate treatment options.
Talk to a Doctor
If you have tried lifestyle changes and are still experiencing difficulty achieving a full erection, it’s important to talk to a doctor. They can assess your situation and recommend treatment options such as medications or therapy.
Consider Therapy
In some cases, erectile dysfunction can be caused by psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, or relationship issues. Therapy can help address these underlying issues and improve your ability to achieve a full erection.
FAQs
- Q: Can stress affect my ability to get a full erection?
- A: Yes, stress and anxiety can contribute to erectile dysfunction. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, therapy, or exercise can help improve your sexual function.
- Q: Are there any medications that can help with erectile dysfunction?
- A: Yes, there are several medications available to help improve blood flow and sexual function. Talk to your doctor to see if prescription medication is right for you.
By making healthy lifestyle choices, seeking medical help when needed, and addressing any psychological factors that may be contributing to your erectile dysfunction, you can improve your ability to achieve a full erection. Don’t be afraid to talk to your doctor about any concerns you may have regarding your sexual health.
