Low Testosterone Is Rarely the Cause of Erectile Dysfunction
February 11, 2022
People often confuse erectile dysfunction with men who have low testosterone levels. However, the vast majority of issues with erectile function are due to a mechanical blood flow problem that is completely independent of testosterone production and release. Erectile dysfunction is most often caused by reduced blood flow that is related to physical problems like high blood pressure or diabetes as well as negative lifestyle issues, such as smoking or alcohol abuse.
Where testosterone is a key component in the male sexual response, boosting levels of the sex hormone is not a universal solution. In fact, according to a recent study published by the National Institute of Health, testosterone therapy is only recommended for hypogonadal men that are experiencing mild symptoms of erectile dysfunction. Moreover, testosterone therapy may be completely ineffective in men with low-T who suffer from moderate to severe ED.
Anxiety Over ED Can Strain Your Sex Life
Erectile dysfunction is the most common male sexual performance issue reported to healthcare providers by men of all ages. It is defined as the inability to get an erection at any time or being able to get an erection but it not lasting long enough for sex or being able to get an erection sometimes but not every time you want to engage in sex. In addition, a fear of not being able to perform in bed can lead to anxiety and ultimately avoiding intimacy all together.
Where it is not uncommon for any man to experience ED on occasion, it is time to speak with a men’s health specialist if erectile problems continue to happen. It is not always easy to suddenly get in the mood when you’re overwhelmed by responsibilities at work or home, so it can be crucial to get enough sleep and to exercise regularly. Although men are more likely to develop erectile dysfunction as they age, aging does not cause ED and it should be noted that the issues causing erectile dysfunction can be treated at any age.
Major Causes of Erectile Dysfunction
There are many factors to be considered when diagnosing and treating ED. Several culprits can negatively affect a man’s vascular system, endocrine system and/or nervous system. Some of the main causes of erectile dysfunction include:
- Lifestyle Factors – Over indulging in alcohol or street drugs can interfere with erections and make it harder to finish the act. Extra weight can impact sexual performance, reduce desire, and make it difficult to get an erection.
- Health Conditions – Spinal cord injuries, certain surgeries, high blood pressure, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and hardening of the arteries can affect the nerves and blood vessels that control an erection.
- Medications – Medications used to treat other problems can dampen sexual desire, make it difficult to get an erection and cause a delay in orgasm. These include drugs for high blood pressure, depression, and pain.
- Physical Trauma – Nerve damage in the genitals as well as neurological trauma can be the culprit that prevents optimal blood flow to the penis. Check out these blogs on physical activities and sports that can cause ED.
- Psychological Issues – Low self-esteem, boredom with a partner, unexpressed anger, and performance anxiety can stifle an erection and affect sexual performance in the bedroom as well as strain relationships.
The penis is soft and limp when there is no sexual arousal. This is normal and reflects the balance of blood flow into and leaving the penis. Although there are oral medications used to treat ED, not everyone can take them, and others do not like having to time sex with taking medicine.
At GAINSWave Jacksonville, we understand that it can be embarrassing to talk to your doctor about your sex life, but it is the quickest way for us to get you back to being intimate with your partner. Dr. Earl Eye can identify what is causing your problem and recommend the best treatment solutions and lifestyle interventions.
