You are depressed, you feel you are half a man, relax and read on.
Erection problems are common and can often be solved with self-care. As a man ages, the speed of his sexual response slows, his drive to reach orgasm is delayed, and the force of his orgasm gradually lessens. This is normal. These physical changes need not be seen as problems. In many cases, they can prolong sensual enjoyment prior to orgasm.
An erection problem, sometimes called impotence, is a persistent difficulty in achieving or maintaining an erection capable of intercourse. Note the word persistent; occasional episodes of impotence are perfectly normal and are nothing to worry about.
One out of every four men experiences a significant erection problem by age 65. However, it is not an inevitable part of getting older. Although occasional erection problems are common, there is no age limit to the ability of healthy men to have erections.
Many erection problems have at least some physical cause. Diabetes, heart and circulation problems, medication side effects, alcohol and drug abuse, and other physical problems contribute to impotence.
In other cases, erection problems can be traced to psychological factors, such as stress, anxiety, grief, depression, and negative feelings. Psychological and physical causes interact. Stress or anxiety will often combine with a minor physical problem to cause an erection problem. Worrying about the erection problem increases the likelihood that it will happen again.
If a physical cause for an erection problem can't be found, psychological counseling may help. After all other options have been tried for several months without success, you may wish to talk with your doctor about erection-producing injections or a vacuum device. A penile implant may be appropriate as a last resort. Prevention
Erection problems can usually be prevented by taking a more relaxed approach to lovemaking and watching for possible side effects from medications or illnesses. Home Treatment
Rule out medications first. Many drugs have side effects that can cause erection problems, especially blood pressure medicines, diuretics, and mood-altering drugs. Look up the side effects of your medications. If an erection problem may be a drug side effect, discuss it with your doctor. An alternative medication may be an option. Do not stop taking any medication without talking to your doctor.
Avoid alcohol. Even small amounts of alcohol can cause temporary impotence. Alcohol also interacts with many medications.
Don't smoke. Smoking reduces blood flow, which can interfere with your ability to have an erection.
Take time for more foreplay. Let your partner know that you would enjoy more stroking. Slow down, then slow down some more.
Relax. If you experience occasional bouts of impotence, worrying about how you will perform next time may only aggravate the problem.
Make sure you're ready. If you are grieving over a loss, you may not be ready for erections and intercourse. Give yourself some time.
Find out if you can have erections at other times. If you can have an erection on awakening, or at other times, the problem may be stress-related or due to an emotional problem. When to Call a Health Professional
If you think that a medication may be causing the problem. Substitutes may be available.
If there is a loss of pubic or armpit hair and your breasts enlarge.
If a few months of home treatment has not brought relief, see your doctor to discuss treatment options.
This site is educative not prescriptive. Always consult doctor before treatment.
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