Erectile Dysfunction: Causes, Symptoms, Prevention, and Treatment
It is estimated that millions of men face challenges related to sexual health in Brazil, with erectile dysfunction being the most common issue among men, especially after the age of 40. This topic is still surrounded by many taboos, which can hinder awareness and the pursuit of professional guidance.

Continue reading to learn more about this health issue, its causes, symptoms, prevention methods, and treatment options.

What is Erectile Dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction is not limited to the difficulty of achieving or maintaining an erection. Health professionals prefer to avoid the term "impotence" as it is pejorative and does not reflect the complexity of the condition.

Beyond issues with the erection itself, the problem may also involve other aspects, such as difficulties related to orgasm. In some cases, an erection occurs but may not last long or have the usual firmness.

Main Symptoms

• Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection;
• Orgasm occurring too quickly;
• Need for significant stimulation to achieve an erection;
• Difficulty maintaining an erection for a prolonged period.

These symptoms may occur individually or alongside others. If any changes in sexual function are noticed, it is advisable to seek guidance from a healthcare professional. They can evaluate the reported symptoms, request tests, and consider factors such as habits and personal history.

Common Causes

While age is a risk factor, other aspects like lifestyle and emotional health also play a significant role. Common causes include:

• Smoking: Impairs blood circulation, contributing to sexual dysfunction.
• Excessive alcohol consumption: Can reduce blood flow and affect the ability to achieve an erection.
• Emotional factors: Stress, relationship problems, and anxiety can interfere with sexual health.
• Medications: Some drugs may have side effects that affect sexual function.
• Chronic illnesses such as diabetes and hypertension: These conditions can impair circulation, directly influencing sexual health.

Other factors like obesity, high cholesterol, and a sedentary lifestyle may also contribute. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is the primary recommendation for prevention.

What About Younger Men?

Although more common after the age of 40, young men can also experience this problem. The same factors mentioned above—lifestyle, health conditions, and emotional factors—can contribute to erectile dysfunction in younger individuals.

Prevention

The best way to prevent erectile dysfunction is to adopt healthy lifestyle habits. Avoiding smoking, excessive alcohol use, and maintaining a routine of physical activity are recommended steps.

Additionally, discussing the issue is important. Feelings of shame or fear of disappointment can prevent many from seeking help. For those with risk factors such as diabetes or hypertension, regular check-ups with healthcare professionals can be helpful for prevention.

Treatment Options

Self-medication can be dangerous and, in some cases, even fatal. Therefore, seeking medical advice to determine the appropriate treatment is highly recommended.

• Lifestyle changes: In some cases, adopting a healthy lifestyle can improve sexual health, especially in younger patients. A balanced diet, regular physical activity, and eliminating harmful habits like smoking are advised.
• Psychological support: For emotional factors, psychological counseling can help manage stress and anxiety.
• Hormonal treatments: When hormonal imbalances like low testosterone are identified, adjustments may be recommended by a doctor.

Other more specific methods may be suggested by a healthcare professional, depending on the patient's needs and medical history.

Learn More

This website is intended for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. The information provided aims to raise awareness and educate about health and well-being topics. If you have any questions or symptoms, we recommend consulting a qualified doctor or specialist. Never self-medicate or abandon recommended treatments without professional supervision.