Men's Health - Erectile Dysfunction Flashcards
(21 cards)
What is erectile dysfunction (ED)?
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to achieve or maintain an erection firm enough to have sexual intercourse. It is common to experience occasional ED, often linked to stress, anxiety, or relationship problems.
What is the difference between occasional and frequent erectile dysfunction?
Occasional ED is common and can occur during times of stress or anxiety. Frequent ED, however, may indicate an underlying health problem.
How common is erectile dysfunction among men?
Erectile dysfunction affects 50% of males aged 40-70 years.
What are some causes and risk factors for erectile dysfunction?
Causes and risk factors for ED include low testosterone, stress, anxiety, poor diet, diabetes mellitus, medication-induced issues (e.g., β-blockers, antidepressants, opiates), cardiovascular disease, and neurogenic factors such as nerve damage.
How does stress and anxiety contribute to erectile dysfunction?
Stress and anxiety increase sympathetic nervous system activity, which in turn raises levels of noradrenaline, a neurotransmitter that can inhibit erectile function.
What role does diet play in erectile dysfunction?
A diet low in whole grains, legumes, vegetables, and fruits, and high in red meat, refined sugars, and dairy products is linked to ED. Foods rich in antioxidants and citrulline, which helps increase nitric oxide (NO) production, are beneficial for erectile health.
How does diabetes mellitus contribute to erectile dysfunction?
Diabetes is associated with increased AGEs (advanced glycation end-products), free radicals, impaired nitric oxide synthesis, and neuropathic damage, all of which can negatively affect erectile function.
Can medication cause erectile dysfunction?
Yes, certain medications like β-blockers, anti-depressants, and opiates can cause erectile dysfunction by interfering with normal nerve signaling or blood flow.
What cardiovascular conditions are linked to erectile dysfunction?
Conditions like atherosclerosis, hypertension, insulin resistance, and smoking can contribute to ED by reducing nitric oxide synthesis and impairing blood flow to the penis.
What is a neurogenic cause of erectile dysfunction?
Neurogenic ED occurs when there is a deficit in nerve signaling to the corpora cavernosa (erectile tissue in the penis). This can be caused by conditions like lumbar disc herniation, multiple sclerosis (MS), or Parkinson’s disease.
What is the natural approach to treating erectile dysfunction?
A natural approach includes addressing underlying causes (like diabetes or low testosterone), following a phytonutrient-rich plant-based diet, eliminating alcohol, managing stress, and incorporating moderate exercise.
What dietary changes can help improve erectile dysfunction?
Focus on a plant-based diet rich in phytonutrients, manage weight, and eliminate alcohol. Foods that support cardiovascular health and increase nitric oxide production, like beetroot juice, can be beneficial.
How does beetroot juice help with erectile dysfunction?
Beetroot juice increases nitric oxide (NO) production, which helps with vasodilation and improves blood flow to the penis, aiding in the treatment of erectile dysfunction.
What nutrients and herbs are beneficial for erectile dysfunction?
Nutrients like L-arginine (1500–5000 mg/day) support nitric oxide production and vasodilation. Vitamin D optimizes NO synthesis, and Ginkgo biloba (60-120 mg twice daily) helps improve blood circulation.
How does Ginkgo biloba help with erectile dysfunction?
Ginkgo biloba improves blood circulation by antagonizing ‘platelet activating factor,’ which causes vasodilation, enhancing blood flow to the penis.
What is the role of emotional causes in erectile dysfunction?
Emotional factors such as stress, anxiety, and relationship difficulties can contribute to ED. Addressing these factors through stress management and emotional support is important in treating ED.
How can adaptogens help with erectile dysfunction?
Adaptogens like ashwagandha, Panax ginseng (1000 mg x 3 daily), and Siberian ginseng (100–300 mg x 2 daily) promote nitric oxide release and support overall stress reduction, which can improve erectile function.
How do Bach flowers assist in treating erectile dysfunction?
Bach flowers can address emotional causes of ED, such as fear of sexual performance (Mimulus), loss of confidence (Larch), stress or fatigue impacting libido (Olive), and trauma-related anxiety (Star of Bethlehem).
How is the stress around sexual performance addressed in erectile dysfunction?
Bach flower remedies like Mimulus and Larch are used to address fear around sexual performance and restore confidence in one’s sexual ability.
What is the role of Panax ginseng in treating erectile dysfunction?
Panax ginseng (1000 mg x 3 daily) helps by promoting nitric oxide release and reducing the impact of stress, potentially improving erectile function.
How does L-arginine help with erectile dysfunction?
L-arginine is an amino acid that supports nitric oxide production, which leads to vasodilation and improved blood flow, essential for achieving and maintaining an erection.
