Can Erectile Dysfunction Get Worse As You Age?

Erectile Dysfunction Issue With Age

Facing challenges in the bedroom? You’re in the same boat as nearly a fifth of all American men over the age of 20, who grapple with erectile dysfunction (ED) at various stages in their lives.

While improvements in medicine and technology are showing promise in revolutionizing the treatment of ED, tempting many to simply resort to the cocktail of medicines on the market, it’s crucial to delve deeper into the underlying causes of ED.

Beyond just an awkward moment under the sheets, difficulties in maintaining an erection might be a red flag, hinting at other more pressing health concerns within the body. If you’re one of the many people trying to understand why they have ED and how to treat it, understand that it’s more than just a personal hurdle – it’s a potential health indicator that demands attention.

What is ED and how does it occur?
Impotence, or ED, is more than just a clinical term; it’s a condition that poses quite a challenge that countless men confront, particularly as age ticks on. At its core, ED is defined as the consistent inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual activity.

Let’s first go over the mechanisms behind how an erection occurs to give you more clarity and understanding as to why you may be experiencing ED.

When a man is stimulated, blood flows into the chambers of the penis, leading to an erection. This process, seemingly simple, relies on a delicate balance of physiological and psychological factors. Any disruption in this balance – whether from blood flow issues, hormonal imbalances, or emotional stressors – can lead to the onset of ED, making it more than just a fleeting problem in the bedroom, but an early alarm system that may indicate underlying disease.

The Roles of Testosterones and Aging

Testosterone plays a pivotal role in men’s health, often hailed as the central hormone responsible for many functions that biologically define what it is to be a man. With age, however, many men experience a drop in testosterone levels, often due to a number of factors like reduced testicular production, genetics, and even certain illnesses. This testosterone dip can then result in several consequences, including sexual dysfunctions like reduced desire and erectile dysfunction, muscle loss, and weakened bones.

But while decreased testosterone might contribute to age-related ED, not all cases are purely age-centric. Many instances of ED stem from diverse causes, independent of age. Therefore, we must address the misconceptions surrounding ED being an older man’s problem and shine a light on the factors that explain why ED occurs in younger men, too.

Causes of ED

It’s important to note that ED isn’t a standalone condition. It’s instead a symptom of sorts resulting from several factors, each contributing to its development in various degrees. To understand it better, let’s delve into its primary causes:

    • Physical Causes: The body’s intricate systems play a pivotal role in sexual function. Cardiovascular diseases, such as coronary artery disease, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure can all significantly influence ED. Diseases like diabetes can disrupt erectile function at a molecular level, affecting multiple organ systems.
    • Psychological Causes: The mind plays a pivotal role in sexual health. Factors like depression, performance anxiety, and other mental health issues can severely impede sexual function. Even in cases where physical conditions are present, psychological issues can exacerbate the problem.
    • Lifestyle: Our daily choices directly influence our sexual health. Regular smoking can deteriorate erectile quality, and obesity has been shown to increase the risk of ED.
    • Medicines and stimulants: ED can sometimes occur as a side effect of a certain medication. For instance, some antidepressants may cause ED. Likewise, though not medicines, some stimulants, such as alcohol, may also cause ED.

As you can see, ED is influenced by a whole range of factors that aren’t necessarily specific to age. It’s therefore important to seek help from a healthcare professional if you have ED so that any of the above causes can be ruled out before appropriate treatment can be prescribed.

Treating ED

Thankfully, ED is no stranger to the medical world, with it being a condition that has a myriad of effective treatments. However, many pharmaceutical treatments for ED don’t offer long-term solutions. As such, the underlying cause of ED remains. We’re here to delve into alternative therapeutic approaches that promote natural healing and result in long-term relief.


The Power of Acoustic Wave Therapy

Acoustic wave therapy, an innovative approach to ED treatment, delves deep into addressing the very root of the issue. This state-of-the-art technique harnesses high-frequency shockwaves to target the root cause of the condition, promoting cellular regeneration and rejuvenation. Unlike traditional methods, it goes beyond providing a temporary fix, acoustic wave therapy aims for long-term healing and restoration.

WaveTech Therapy is a leading player in this industry, offering an unparalleled approach to treatment. Our unique program employs a pain-free, low-intensity technology, making sure you’re comfortable during your treatment and are free of harmful side effects. 

 

For those weary of conventional methods and looking for a more enduring solution, the benefits of acoustic wave therapy are undeniable:

  • Acoustic wave therapy does not involve incisions or anesthesia. It’s a simple procedure performed in the comforts of a clinic.
  • Instead of temporarily improving symptoms, like many ED medications, acoustic wave therapy targets the root cause by promoting blood vessel growth and improving blood flow to the penis.
  • It offers an alternative for those who cannot or do not wish to take ED medications.
  • Some studies suggest that the benefits of acoustic wave therapy can last for months to years after the treatment series is completed.
  • Side effects are typically minimal, with some patients experiencing temporary soreness.
  • Each session typically lasts for 15-20 minutes and is generally painless.
  • Patients can return to their regular activities immediately after a session.

 

Other ED Treatments

As mentioned before, there are many ways to treat ED. The first treatment choice for those living with ED should be to adopt healthier lifestyle choices. Embracing a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, and managing weight can all make a significant difference. 

For some whose ED is rooted in psychological causes, counseling or therapy can help address underlying emotional or relational factors contributing to the wider issue. Additionally, if ED is only happening short term, then prescription medicines such as Viagra or Cialis can be acquired following a consultation from a registered healthcare professional.

So, Does Age Matter?

While it’s true that the risk for ED can potentially increase with age due to naturally decreasing testosterone levels, age and testosterone are not the sole determinants in achieving an erection. In fact, most causes of ED are not directly related to age but are linked to other underlying medical issues.

Your doctor plays an essential role in determining the cause of ED. This is typically done through a combination of blood tests, physical examinations, and psychosocial assessments. In many cases, there might be more than one underlying cause contributing to ED. However, with proper identification and understanding of the problem, ED can be addressed and treated effectively, and even naturally, allowing individuals to lead a happier, healthier life. 

If you’re struggling with ED and are looking for a natural, long-lasting solution to stronger, better erections, then get in touch with us at your earliest convenience to find out whether acoustic wave therapy is right for you!

Find a WaveTech Therapy ED Location Near You Here.