As men age, developing a robust erection can take more time. In fact, many males notice that their erections lack much of the firmness that was characteristic of their erections throughout youth. Stimulating an erection could require more direct contact or touching.
While many males believe this is only a natural part of growing older and associate it with waning testosterone levels, this may not be a direct result of the aging process. It may be the sign of early erectile dysfunction, which is commonly caused by a number of primary health issues or lifestyle factors. Below are several erectile dysfunction risk factors and tips for mitigating them.
Keep in mind that you may also hear erectile dysfunction called either impotence or ED--these all refer to the same condition
Tobacco Use
The erectile tissues in the penis are wholly reliant upon circulation for engorgement. When blood delivery is impaired due to certain life habits, erections will invariably be smaller, less firm, and more difficult to achieve. Tobacco use is a common culprit, because it constricts blood vessels and leads to a number of chronic health issues that can impact reproductive health overall.
Excess Body Fat
Obesity will also increase your likelihood of impotence. This is largely due to the negative impacts that excess body fat have on the circulatory system. Consequently, obesity can also have a marked affect on penis size in men, given the tendency for older males to store fat around the base of the penis and at the pelvic floor. This can cover one or more inches of the shaft.
Penile Injuries
Physical injuries that affect the penis or pelvic floor can also interfere with the functionality of the penis. This is one of the top reasons why men are recommended to take extra care in choosing penile enhancement products and procedures. Excessive weighting or stretching of the shaft can make it difficult, if not impossible, to attain an erection naturally. Injuries can also cause extensive damage to the urethra, making urination painful.
Psychological Issues
Impotence can also have psychological causes that may be directly related to sexual performance. Anxiety, depression, and stress can all have an impact on a man's ability to become erect. In these instances, treatments are focused on mental health rather than on addressing physiological issues. When erectile dysfunction is suspected and no physiological issues exist, you may want to speak with a therapist.
Alcohol And Drug Use
Excessive alcohol consumption is virtually guaranteed to have an array of negative effects on male reproductive health. Given that this lifestyle factor can also impact general health, erectile dysfunction can be the result of either alcohol use or the other health issues that it causes. This also holds true for drug use. Recreational and even prescription drugs can diminish the functionality and health of the male sex organ. Men who are receiving treatment for cancer or who are on long-term pain management plans, blood pressure treatments, or are using antihistamines or antidepressants will often notice a decline in penile health and functionality.
Conclusion
Altering your life habits is often the best way to prevent or alleviate the signs of erectile dysfunction. With good nutrition, balanced weight, and little or no use of alcohol and tobacco products, it may be possible to retain the ability to gain a strong erection all throughout life. Ultimately, a focus on promoting optimal circulatory and general health can have continued benefits in terms of male sexual performance.
