How to Manage Painful Erections
Painful erections are usually more than a mild inconvenience. Learn what to do once it happens, including how the right treatment can help.
Weight has been a problem in the United States for some time. More than 2 out of 5 Americans over the age of 20 are classed as obese. At the same time, 52% of American men report one or more incidences of erectile dysfunction (ED). Statistically, there’s plenty of overlap, and it’s not likely all a coincidence. One study found that nearly 80% of men with ED also suffer from obesity.
The link between obesity and erectile dysfunction is established. Recovering youthful vitality may take more than simply losing weight. Book an exam with urologist Dr. Mike Hsieh to plan your way back to an active sexual lifestyle.
One of the more common causes of ED is simply getting older. The incidence of ED climbs with the age of the patient. There are effects of aging that can directly influence erectile ability, issues like poor cardiovascular health, lower hormone levels, loss of muscle mass, and more.
Similarly, obesity contributes to many of these same issues. When you have both weight and age working against you, your vascular health may be insufficient to provide the blood flow the penis needs to achieve a strong erection.
Obesity is also connected with high cholesterol, which can cause a buildup of fatty plaques in your blood vessels, another condition that can prevent blood from flowing into your penis.
As well as these secondary connections between ED and obesity, researchers know that obesity is a significant risk factor for ED, though the direct connection isn’t fully understood. The link, though, is established in clinical testing. One study found that 31% of the 55 participants treated for their ED with diet and exercise regained normal sexual function compared with only 2% in the control group who had no diet or exercise routine.
Sustainable weight loss isn’t an easy answer, but when the goal is to improve sexual health, you may be more easily motivated. Since many weight loss plans include both diet and exercise, you have a chance to improve your vascular performance too.
A heart-friendly Mediterranean diet, including fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats while lowering your overall caloric intake, supports your weight loss efforts. Combining a sustainable meal plan with increased physical activity that adds to the calorie burn is the safest approach to weight loss that supports better erectile performance.
As you undergo your weight loss journey, there are other treatments for the symptoms of ED that can help you maintain or regain your confidence. Every patient is unique, so schedule a consultation with Dr. Hsieh for an exam and consultation. Call his office in La Jolla, California, to schedule your session today.
