Yes you can reverse erectile dysfunction without a pill

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a problem that can strike even younger men. Viagra is the 45th top selling prescription drug in the United States. Men with ED should be warned that if they need a prescription for inability to obtain or maintain an erection there could be other health problems that need to be addressed. Results of a new study show erectile dysfunction can be reversed without a pill. Making lifestyle changes can improve sexual function and reverse ED.

Common reasons for erection problems

ED isn't an issue men should ignore. According to Professor Gary Wittert, Head of the Discipline of Medicine at the University of Adelaide and Director of the University's Freemasons Foundation Centre for Men's Health sexual dysfunction can come from a wide variety of health problems. that can be debilitating and in some instances fatal.

Health problems that can lead to erection problems include obesity, sleep apnea, poor sleep and just being overweight. High alcohol intake can also interfere with erections. Aging is also associated with higher risk of ED.

Wittert highlights the importance of sexual relations for well-being that is also linked to overall health and lower risk factors for heart disease and diabetes.

Lifestyle changes that can help ED

Addressing the following can help improve sexual function without medications according to the finding:

• Improving sleep
• Reducing alcohol intake
• Exercising more
• Eating a healthy diet
• Lower cholesterol
• Weight loss if needed
• Addressing high blood pressure
• Controlling diabetes

In other words, following a healthy lifestyle could reverse the problem.

It's also important to note medications can also cause difficulty getting an erection. Smoking is also a risk factor because it constricts the blood vessels to reduce blood flow in addition to raising the chances of heart disease and stroke.

Wittert warns: "Erectile dysfunction can be a very serious issue because it's a marker of underlying cardiovascular disease, and it often occurs before heart conditions become apparent." Inability to perform sexually isn't always just a psychological issue.

Dr Sean Martin from the University of Adelaide's Freemasons Foundation Centre for Men's Health, says: "Even when medication to help with erectile function is required, it is likely to be considerably more effective if lifestyle factors are also addressed.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, sex is important because it contributes to a person's well-being. It is also an integral part of being human. Physical, mental and emotional problems can all interfere with a healthy sex life.

Other experts certainly agree, making the current study important. Ignoring lifestyle factors like weight loss and getting adequate sleep that interfere with sex can have implications that go beyond individual well-being.

The study

For their study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, researchers looked at men in Australia with erection difficulties or lack of sexual desire, aged 35-80,

"Our study saw a large proportion of men suffering from some form of erectile dysfunction, which is a concern. The major risk factors for this are typically physical conditions rather than psychological ones," Wittert said.

The investigation found 29 percent of men reversed erectile dysfunction by making lifestyle changes. Wittert says that's significant and shows men have options other than taking ED drugs.

"Even when medication to help with erectile function is required, it is likely to be considerably more effective if lifestyle factors are also addressed," he adds.

During the investigation a large number of men developed erectile dysfunction that the authors say is a concern. Treating the cause of ED with lifestyle changes rather than just taking a pill can make a difference in quality of life.The ability to maintain a healthy sex life helps us maintain mental well-being as well as optimal physical health.

Related:

BPA exposure and erectile dysfunction: What's the link?
Bicycle seats linked to impotence
Getting to the "heart" of erectile dysfunction: What men should know

Updated 5/28/2014