Are You Up on Your ED Facts?

ED happens to older men most often. Still, aging doesn't cause it. Growing older doesn't mean giving up sex, either. Men even in their 90s can be sexually active.

Erectile dysfunction happens to a lot of guys. Half of American men older than 50 have reported at least some trouble being ready for sex. That doesn't mean they all have ED.

You can still get erections in your sleep if you have ED. It usually means your condition is caused by stress, depression, or something like that. If you don't get them in your sleep, it's likely your ED has a physical cause.

Tobacco and other drugs can hamper an erection. This is especially true if you've done either for a long time. A few glasses of wine might put you in the mood, but drinking too much too often can really put the fire out. It also helps to exercise, eat right, and manage stress.

Lots of things can make it tough to get an erection. It's normal for that to happen once in a while. See your doctor, though, if it's a regular problem. They'll help you figure out the cause and give you treatment options.

A narrowing and hardening of your arteries, the same things that cause heart attacks and some strokes, can curb blood supply to the penis. Of course, ED doesn't always mean you have a serious health issue, but check with your doctor to make sure.

Nearly all men who have radiation or surgery for prostate cancer will get ED, at least for a while. The delicate nerves that run along the prostate control your erections, and anything done near them could affect your sex life. But it's often temporary.

Diabetes can damage blood vessels and nerves, which can cause ED and other problems. If you have diabetes, make sure to exercise. You'll also want to keep your blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol in check to lower your odds.

Lots of medicines can be triggers. The list includes blood pressure and heart drugs, antidepressants, and tranquilizers. They can have an impact on hormones, nerves, or blood flow. All of those things affect your ability to be ready for sex. If you're on a new prescription and you think it's causing a problem, don't stop taking it. But do call your doctor. They might prescribe something else.

If you take pills for it, don't worry about getting erections at awkward times. These drugs work only if you're aroused. They generally help 7 out of 10 men get erections and, no doubt, confidence in the bedroom.

Pumps were one of the earliest devices used to treat the condition. You can get modern-day pumps by prescription. If nothing else works, penile implant surgery may be a last resort. Your doctor can tell you about all your options.