So therefore, the penis can predict heart attacks or strokes years in advance when they may occur. Following dietary guidelines and limiting the intake of alcohol and foods with added salt, sugar, and fat will help to reduce the risk of developing ED. These Pilates exercises activate the right group of muscles and challenge a person to maintain pelvic floor strength while moving.
If your erections aren’t as hard as you like, you may be experiencing a mild symptom of erectile dysfunction (ED). A healthy sex life is in your future, so read on to learn more. If the root of your ED is physical, your doctor or another healthcare provider may point out certain lifestyle-related risk factors like smoking or an unhealthy diet that you can change. They may also change medications that you are taking for another health condition that may be causing your ED, such as some antidepressants and high blood pressure drugs. Problems getting or maintaining an erection is called erectile dysfunction (ED). ED is a common, usually treatable condition in which a person cannot get or maintain an erection long enough for sexual activity.
Some providers use a questionnaire to supplement their medical history and physical exam. Questionnaires may rate your ability to initiate and keep erections, gauge your satisfaction with sex, and help identify any problems with orgasm. After orgasm, the muscles of the penis relax, releasing blood back into the circulation system. As a result, the erection comes down, the penis is soft and limp, and the person’s urogenital system returns to its pre-arousal state.
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. In some cases, ED can be a warning sign of a more serious disease. One study suggests it can predict heart attack, stroke, and even death from cardiovascular disease. If you’re diagnosed with ED, get checked for cardiovascular disease. This doesn’t mean every man with ED will develop heart disease, or that every man with heart disease has ED, but you should be aware of the link.
ED is the most common reason that males seek help with sexual issues. Another option is asking a doctor about checking testosterone levels. Males with low testosterone levels may have difficulty with arousal. Typically, an erection may last from a few minutes to half an hour. However, there is no set duration for an erection; many factors can influence how long a person’s erection lasts.
Having trouble getting an erection can be a frustrating and embarrassing experience for many men. Whether it’s due to stress, anxiety, or other factors, there are steps you can take to help yourself get back in the game.
1. Relax and Reduce Stress
Stress and anxiety are common culprits of erectile dysfunction. Taking time to relax and reduce stress through activities like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can help improve blood flow and increase arousal.
2. Stay Active and Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise not only improves overall health but also boosts circulation and helps maintain a healthy weight, which can contribute to better sexual performance. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
3. Eat a Healthy Diet
A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can improve blood flow and promote overall wellness, which can lead to better sexual function. Limiting alcohol, caffeine, and processed foods can also be beneficial.
4. Talk to Your Doctor
If you’re experiencing persistent issues with getting or maintaining an erection, it’s important to talk to your doctor. They can help determine if there are underlying medical conditions contributing to the problem and recommend appropriate treatment options.
5. Explore Sexual Fantasies
Engaging in sexual fantasies or watching erotic films can help stimulate arousal and increase blood flow to the genitals. Experimenting with different techniques and exploring what turns you on can help reignite your libido.
