Erectile Dysfunction Treatment

You can get ED treatment on the NHS if you have certain health conditions such as diabetes, cancer, multiple sclerosis, or high blood pressure. You will usually be limited to 4 tablets per month.

Testosterone replacement therapy will only help if you have a hormone condition which is reducing blood testosterone levels. If you have strong erections in the morning, you are unlikely to have low testosterone levels. However, if you are concerned about your testosterone levels, you should see your GP who can perform a blood test.

ED can be occasional and there may be times where you can achieve and maintain an erection. This is particularly common in those who are experiencing psychological ED. The ability to achieve and maintain an erection is dependent on your state of mind.

Whilst masturbation itself cannot cause ED, porn can give an unrealistic perception of sex, making it difficult to get sexually aroused in real life. This is known as porn-induced ED.

Studies show that ED becomes more common as you get older. It is estimated that at 40 years old, 40% of men are affected by ED. This figure increases by 1% per year. For example, 50% of men at age 50, and 60% of men aged 60, will be affected by ED.

The best ED tablet is the one that is most effective for you. The most commonly prescribed ED tablets are sildenafil and tadalafil. They have a high success rate and are cost effective. However, whilst these tablets work for most men, response to treatment may vary in individuals.

To find out more, visit our article looking at the differences between sildenafil and tadalafil.

Shockwave therapy involves using a wand-like device on different areas of the penis. A healthcare professional guides the device along different parts of the penis for approximately 15 minutes, emitting gentle pulses without the need for anaesthesia.

These pulses stimulate blood flow and tissue remodelling within the penis, resulting in improvements that can lead to better erections.

Currently, there is no established recommendation for the duration or frequency of treatment. However, clinical studies indicate that the most common treatment protocol consisted of twice-weekly sessions for 3 weeks, followed by a 3-week break, and then another 3 weeks of twice-weekly treatments.

According to studies, the positive effects of shockwave therapy were observed to persist for approximately one year.

While some foods may have a positive impact on overall health and potentially contribute to better sexual function, there is no definitive evidence to support the idea that specific foods can cure erectile dysfunction (ED). The same applies to vitamins and supplements marketed to help with ED. ED is a complex issue that can be influenced by various factors, including physical, psychological, and lifestyle-related aspects.

However, maintaining a healthy and balanced diet can contribute to overall well-being, cardiovascular health, and blood circulation, which are important factors for a healthy erection. Here are some dietary considerations that may support sexual health:

• Fruits and Vegetables: Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, fruits and vegetables can contribute to overall cardiovascular health.
• Whole Grains: Whole grains are a good source of fibre, which is associated with a reduced risk of ED. They also contribute to heart health.
• Lean Proteins: Include sources of lean protein, such as poultry, fish, and legumes, in your diet. Protein is essential for overall health and muscle function.
• Healthy Fats: Incorporate sources of healthy fats, such as those found in olive oil, avocados, and nuts. Healthy fats are beneficial for heart health.
• Water: Staying hydrated is essential for overall health, including blood circulation.
• Limit Processed Foods and Sugar: Excessive consumption of processed foods and added sugars can contribute to high blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes, all of which are linked to ED.

Erectile dysfunction is a side effect of many drugs. Medication that can cause ED include:

• Blood pressure medication – Such as ramipril, bisoprolol, amlodipine
• Anti-anxiety medication – Such as propranolol
• Antidepressants: Such as sertraline and venlafaxine
• Prostate medication: Such as finasteride and tamsulosin
• Chemotherapy
• Cholesterol treatment (statins)

If you think that ED is a side effect of medication you are taking, you should visit your doctor or pharmacist for a medication review.

There are vitamins and herbal remedies which are marketed at treating ED. However, there is lack of scientific data within this field.

Certain approaches and lifestyle changes may help to improve erectile dysfunction. However, this can depend on whether ED is physical or psychological. The extent of irreversible damage caused by long term conditions such as diabetes, will also determine whether such changes can help to improve ED.

1. Healthy Lifestyle:

• Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity can improve overall cardiovascular health, which is closely linked to erectile function.
• Balanced Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can contribute to overall health.
• Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight is important for reducing the risk of ED.
   

2. Stress Management:

• Chronic stress can contribute to ED. Practicing stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises may be beneficial.
   

3. Adequate Sleep:

• Poor sleep quality or insufficient sleep can negatively impact hormonal balance and sexual function.
   

4. Limiting Alcohol and Tobacco Use:

• Excessive alcohol consumption and smoking can contribute to ED. Reducing or eliminating these substances may have a positive impact.

There is limited research to prove that vaping causes ED. Nicotine can damage blood vessels, reducing blood flow to areas of the body, including the penis. So, in theory, vaping can contribute to ED.

In the UK, ED treatment is available over the counter. Viagra Connect, containing the ingredient sildenafil 50mg; as well as Cialis Together, containing the ingredient tadalafil 10mg, are both available over the counter. The higher strengths of these medication are not available OTC.

There is lack of scientific data to prove the effectiveness of any natural or herbal ED treatment.