Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile Dysfunction is a prevalent disorder among men over the age of 40. What is Erectile Dysfunction, and what can you do about it? We are bringing you all the information you need so you know what to look for and how you can manage it once diagnosed. It’s all being shared here, so don’t miss it.

What is Erectile Dysfunction?

Erectile Dysfunction, more widely known as ED, is a common disorder with older age. As the body ages naturally, you develop a higher risk for ED. ED affects the penis of men involving the inability to get or form an erection firm enough for sex.

How Prevalent Is Erectile Dysfunction?

Erectile Dysfunction is prevalent in about ⅓ of men around the globe. It is less common to experience this disorder in the younger years as it progresses with old age. It is not uncommon for men of all ages to have some sort of trouble here and there in the bedroom. When it becomes challenging to get or maintain an erection more than half the time, it is time to talk to a doctor.

What Symptoms Might You Experience With Erectile Dysfunction?

Symptoms of ED can vary from person to person, but generally, most people will see the same signs. These consist of:

1. Fatigue
2. Inability to get or maintain an erection firm enough for sex
3. Loss of interest in sex

If you are experiencing some of these symptoms, check with a doctor.

What Causes Erectile Dysfunction?

The most significant contributor for men over the age of 40 is going to be age. This risk factor is not something that can be changed or altered. Aging is something totally out of your control when it comes to ED. Several other risk factors can contribute to ED in men that you do have some control over.

According to the American Urological Association, Erectile Dysfunction can result from a complex relationship between vascular, psychological, hormonal, and neurological factors. Here are ten risk factors for ED and a summary along with them.

1. Stress & Anxiety

This can be a vicious cycle if you are not careful. Here’s the scenario: Say you are stressed out and have high anxiety levels. You start to notice that you are having some of the common symptoms with ED. You go to get checked out and are met with the diagnosis. This starts to cause you more stress and anxiety, learning how to handle it as an individual and your relationship. The added stress on your physical relationship creates intimacy issues, leading to additional stress and increased and or worse symptoms for your ED.

Get the picture? This is a risk factor that you can start on now to eliminate in your life – or at least decrease. No one has zero amount of stress in their life. But you can have minimal amounts of stress if you are present and aware of what sets off your stress and can combat it healthily.

2. Medication

Not all medications you take will have adverse reactions to your sexual health. Some can, though, and it is wise to do some research and find a medication that will work well for you. In that case, do your research when choosing prescription medication over the counter. Now, in the case that you have to have chemotherapy or some other life-saving medication- you might not have the choice for a better option for yourself. Do what you can with the knowledge and situation you are in.

3. Injury

Some individuals experience an injury to or around the Penis or Testicles. This can result in symptoms that are consistent with ED.

4. High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure, or Hypertension as its medical term- can be a significant risk factor for ED. Fully understanding the anatomy and processes required to form an erection, it is easier to understand why Hypertension is a risk factor. Since forming an erection involves adequate blood flow to the penis, it makes logical sense that a condition that affects blood flow would also affect ED.

5. Mental/ Psychological Causes

You might be surprised to know that forming an erection is not all physical. It actually has a lot to do with mental processes and psychological causes. This is why stress and anxiety play such a role in causing ED. Also affecting ED, you will find depression and PTSD on the lists as well.

6. Diabetes and or Heart Disease

A study performed in Diabetes Medicine found that men with diabetes were more likely to develop ED.  If a man has diabetes and does not have healthy control over his glucose levels, the higher levels will lead to damage of blood vessels and nerves through the body.

7. Lifestyle

How you live your life affects all the above factors for developing this disorder. Small daily habits will affect your health positively or negatively. If you recreationally use drugs on the weekends and drink, this hurts your Testosterone levels, negatively impacting your sexual health and increasing your risk of ED. If you regularly view porn in your relationships or individually, this can adversely affect you with performance anxiety and extreme views of sex in the bedroom.

8. Sleep

Most men do not get enough sleep. Sleep often gets put on the back burner between a job or career, family relationships, friends, tasks, and hobbies. Sometimes it is even swept under the rug not intentionally, just as a by-product of a full mind and a full schedule. Lack of sleep affects many body processes and functions, one of them being sexual health and ED.
Make it a priority to be consistent with getting seven to eight total hours of rest each night. Scientists have studied sleep for years and have found a “sweet spot” or the perfect amount of sleep that is ideal for every individual to function at their optimal level. This number is seven to seven and a half hours of sleep every day. Sleep is detrimental to mental health but also to survival.
According to a study published by the Pharmacy & Therapeutics peer-reviewed journal published in 2018, cognitive function declines quickly and rapidly after 16 hours of being awake. In turn, we suffer from being sleep deprived, and these symptoms accrue over time, declining alert and wakefulness.
Generally, sleep-deprived individuals react abnormally to a circumstance than an individual who had an adequate sleep would respond. Simply put, the less rest you get each night, the moodier, cloud headed, stressed, exhausted, irritated, and hornery you become.

9. Nutrition

What you feed your body has a significant impact on how it will perform throughout your life. Here are ten ideas on how you can positively impact your wellness and sexual health in 2022 to avoid ED:

1. Include protein at each meal.
2. Drink more water.
3. Reduce sugar intake.
4. Limit processed and packaged foods.
5. Eat a variety of bright-colored fruits.
6. Limit soy products.
7. Cut down your consumption of soda and sugary drinks.
8. Opt for vitamin supplements if you know your diet is lacking.
9. Include vegetables at each meal.
10.  Pack your lunch to work or school.

By implementing the ten ideas above, you can make leaps and bounds in how you age and how well your body grows and develops over the years. If you are looking at the list and find that for three or more of the items listed, you do not currently practice it…Then you have a great place to start. Choose one item on the list and start practicing the habit. After two weeks, reevaluate and see if it has improved. If it seems more like second nature than something you have to set a reminder for after that period, take that as a sign that you can now move on to the next habit to conquer.

More often than not, eating better or adjusting your eating habits is the most significant obstacle for individuals who want to improve their health. Here is an example of a few snacks and meals that will point you in the right direction so you can take the stress out of it.

Breakfast Ideas

1. Two eggs with a side of turkey sausage and sweet potato
2. Greek yogurt with protein granola topped with fruit
3. Breakfast smoothie complete with spinach, berries, yogurt, nuts, honey, and sweetened almond milk.

Lunch Ideas

1. Pita with hummus and rotisserie chicken, side of snap peas, and choice of cheese
2. Turkey and avocado sandwich with a side of carrots and dip
3. Loaded salad with spinach, arugula, ham, cheese, cauliflower, carrots, cucumbers, tomatoes, and choice of dressing

Snack Ideas

1. Apple with almond butter
2. String cheese with almonds
3. Turkey jerky with an orange

Dinner Ideas

1. Roasted chicken with baked potato and side of broccoli
2. Grilled steak with spaghetti squash and side of green beans
3. Spaghetti with meatballs, side of peas and garlic bread

You do not have to start right out of the gate just eating the above meals. These are more of a guideline to show you how easy and stress-free the adjustment can be for you. Whole foods, foods with healthy macronutrients and micronutrients, have been shown to delay the onset of ED or make symptoms better. Start adjusting your diet little by little every day, and before you know it, your health will improve drastically.

10. Exercise

Moving your body is beneficial to all processes and functions you need to survive. According to the National Institute on Aging, taking it easy has more to do with the loss of ability to do things when you grow older, more so than the aging process alone. In other words, inactivity can do more harm than good if you do not exercise.

Exercising regularly can improve balance, lessen the risk of falling, improve sleep, more energy, reduce stress and anxiety, improve cognitive function, decrease blood pressure, reduce depression, boost your mood, and increase bone density and strength.

If you are not a regular gym-goer or find that you struggle to exercise, don’t fret. You do not need to decide today how, when, and where you will work out the rest of your life. But you do need to sit yourself down and find time in your schedule a few days each week, where you can move your body for 30-45 minutes and get your heart pumping. Here are some tips to make it easier:

1. Choose something you love doing.
2. Get an accountability partner.
3. Pick a consistent time every day or every week.
4. Set goals that excite you but are attainable for you.
5. Have fun.

The important thing with getting and staying active is having fun. If you don’t enjoy it, the chances of sticking with it will be slim.

Can Erectile Dysfunction Be Reversed?

Erectile Dysfunction can not disappear completely, although the symptoms experienced can decrease or be very insignificant or minimal. By attending to the habits listed above in this article, you can drastically reduce your symptoms if you already have ED.

What Should You Do If You Think You Have Erectile Dysfunction?

If you find that you have ED, there is help. Take an inventory of the symptoms you have been experiencing and set up an appointment with a doctor. You can discuss your symptoms, sexual history, relationships, etc. You might need to complete a set of blood work and a physical if you choose.

Visit Genesys Men’s Health For Your Erectile Dysfunction Needs

We have enjoyed sharing all the information here on what Erectile Dysfunction is and what you can do about it. We hope it has been informational and helpful to you reading this article. If you find that you may be experiencing symptoms of ED, we are here to help. Our office is located in Sandy, Utah. Come by and visit with our friendly staff team, or give us a call via phone at (801) 671-7465. Contact us today!

If you find yourself dealing with symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction (ED), you know that it can have effects on many different aspects of your life. 

One of the areas it can impact the most is your sex life with your significant other. We know there are many challenges that are faced when dealing with ED, and we want to help you keep your sex life and relationship booming.

What Is Erectile Dysfunction:

Erectile Dysfunction is a sexual disorder that has an onset of progressed years of life. Generally, older men can develop Erectile Dysfunction as a simple by-product of the aging process. Erectile Dysfunction is known for symptoms such as the inability to form or keep an erection that is fit for sexual intercourse.

What Can Cause Erectile Dysfunction?

There are a few things that can bring on symptoms of this disorder. Stress, anxiety, Cardiovascular Disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, relationship issues, obesity, diabetes, drug and alcohol use, sleep issues, Parkinson’s Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, damage to the private area or region, kidney disease, and certain over the counter medications or prescription drugs. Oftentimes, the onset of ED can be caused by only one of these factors and sometimes a few of them. This is where the importance of talking with your doctor comes into play. Together you can figure out what is causing your symptoms and figure out the best plan of action for you moving forward.

How Do I Know If I Have Erectile Dysfunction:

If you have been experiencing some issues in the bedroom, you might consider ED as a possible reason. Some characteristics of Erectile Dysfunction are the inability to form or keep an erection that is stable enough for sexual intercourse, lack of sexual desire or libido, exhaustion, and loss of interest in sexual connections.

I Am Young. Is It Possible for Me to Have Erectile Dysfunction?

As much as it is common for older men to develop ED, it is less common for younger men to receive this diagnosis. This does not mean that you can’t develop this condition if you are in your 20’s. Although it is rare, it can happen. There are a few things to take into consideration with your age and any question that you might have ED. It is normal to have some dry spells in this sexual nature here and there. No one has a relationship where there aren’t some minor issues involving sex and erection. It is when these episodes happen 50% of the time or more that you should consider seeing a doctor or specialist. This level of occurrence is not normal and could be Erectile Dysfunction. If it’s bothering you, do not put it off. Make an appointment to get it checked out so you can have a headstart on feeling like yourself again.

Effects of Erectile Dysfunction on Your Romantic Relationship

When you find out you have Erectile Dysfunction, it can be a shock, to say the least. You might experience frustration amongst a variety of other emotions that surface in your relationship. You might see some negative feedback from your significant other, learning how to navigate a new factor in your sexual relationship. This can cause stress and anxiety, which can only increase your symptoms. The best way to address the discovery of ED is to have an open and honest conversation with your partner. Take turns telling each other your thoughts and feelings and be open to answering questions and concerns they might have. When you both have a positive attitude and lead with love and compassion, your outcomes for ED and your relationship will be more successful and positive.

Effects of Erectile Dysfunction on Your Mental Health

The diagnosis of ED can somewhat rock your world. If you experience sadness, anger, frustration, grief, and burnout, you are not alone. It is important to let yourself deal with the situation without judgment or stress. Feel the emotions you need to feel. This will help you to process and move forward to the next best step. Some things you can do to help yourself on this path are:

1. Talk to someone you trust
2. Talk to a therapist
3. Get outside
4. Make time for yourself
5. Keep your friends close for support

By making the suggestions listed above, your journey on the path to recovery will be easier and less exhausting. Remember, this is not a life sentence. As many as 30 million men across the globe suffer from symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction and lead normal and happy lives. Your life does not have to stop because of ED, and it shouldn’t. There are treatment options available to get you feeling like yourself again in no time. 

Effects of Erectile Dysfunction on Your Diet

If you are used to eating mostly processed foods and high sugary drinks, you are going to want to radically change your eating habits. Not only does eating this way make you more exhausted, but it contributes to developing symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction. Research suggests that consuming an increased amount of packaged and processed foods is correlated with increased rates of ED. The best thing you can do for yourself if you find you have concerning symptoms would be to start eating a healthier diet. Some may find that this can have some roadblocks if you are married or living with your significant other. They may not want to change their eating habits with you, and this switch will require their support. If this sounds similar to your situation, sit your partner down and ask them for their support. They might not want to eat everything you eat, but they can support you by keeping you accountable and choosing some healthier swaps in their diet they can work on. Sit down and chat about a game plan for making meals, grocery shopping, and budget. Talking about everything upfront will save stress on your relationship. And saving stress on your relationship means better sex in the bedroom. The key is communication. 

Erectile Dysfunction and Physical Activity

So you have Erectile Dysfunction, and you are not physically active with consistent exercise… now is the time to start. Studies show that exercise has multiple benefits to improve symptoms of ED, while also aiding you in avoiding developing ED. Aside from aiding in your ED, benefits from exercise include better sleep, improved brain function and memory, less weight gain, lower risk of heart disease, lower risk of diabetes, lower risk of stroke, lower risk of high blood pressure, better balance and bone health, fewer instances of anxiety and stress, improves symptoms of sleep apnea, decreases chances of developing cancer, lower risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia. 

 If you are unsure where to start on your exercise journey for ED, here are a few pointers:

1. Start slow.
2. Find an accountability partner, namely your romantic partner.
3. Build up to at least 3 times per week.
4. Exercise for at least 30 -45 minutes each session.
5. Add in 2 strength training sessions each week.

Most people think that by starting an exercise routine, they need to begin at 5 times per week and stay at the gym for an hour each time. For some people, that might work right out of the gate. For most… it will not be sustainable in the beginning. Start by finding what you like, what you are most likely to stick to for a long time. This could be a boxing class, lifting weights, running, cycling, etc. Starting an exercise routine is also a great time to try new things and incorporate them with your significant other. You will add some fun to your relationship and build good habits together, which will bring you closer while you are working through ED. When you do find something you like, stick to it. A general rule of thumb is to work up to 150 minutes each week of moderate intensity aerobic exercise. This correlates to at least 150 minutes of your week, and you will be engaging in exercise movements that get you moving, such as swimming, brisk walking, tennis, gardening, or leisurely biking. Or you can engage in 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic exercise (or a combination of both types of exercise). Vigorous aerobic exercises would consist of movements like running, cycling, jumping rope, strenuous yard work, backpacking, hiking, etc. There are also numerous benefits to strength training, and adding in 2 days per week that are dedicated to building muscle is advised. 

Visit Genesys Men’s Health for Your Erectile Dysfunction Needs

Here at Genesys Men’s Health, we support you in your journey on the road to decreased symptoms. We have a variety of resources to aid you on your way. Our team is eager and willing to help you in your Erectile Dysfunction journey. We have a friendly group of staff who are well trained and can help answer any questions and concerns you ask. Our office is located in Sandy, Utah. Come in or give us a call at (801)-671-7456. Contact us today!

Have you ever ignored a health problem, hoping it would go away? Here are a few reasons you shouldn’t do that with Erectile Dysfunction.

What Is Erectile Dysfunction?

ED is when it is difficult to get or maintain an erection that is firm enough for sex. During sexual arousal, nerves release chemicals that increase blood flow in the penis. Blood flows into two spongey muscle tissue chambers in the penis. The spongey tissue relaxes in order to trap the blood. The blood pressure is what makes the penis erect enough for sex.

When a man has an orgasm, a second set of nerve signals reach the penis and cause the muscular tissues in the penis to contract and blood is released back into a man’s circulation and the erection comes down. When you are not sexually aroused, the penis is soft and limp. Men may notice that the size of the penis varies with warmth, cold, or worry; this is normal and reflects the balance of blood coming into and leaving the penis.

Erectile dysfunction is basically when blood pressure is not high enough in the penis. There are several potential causes for this. It could be indicating a larger health issue, or it may be a simple fix. If you are struggling to get or maintain an erection, you should take the ED self-test. This self-test can help you identify your erectile dysfunction has been affecting your quality of life.

What Your Erectile Dysfunction May Be Telling You

Erectile dysfunction happens when one of these three things are going on:

• Blood flow in the penis is restricted, or nerves are harmed
• Stress or emotional reasons
• As an early sign of a more serious disease, like atherosclerosis, heart disease, high blood pressure or high blood sugar from Diabetes

If your erectile dysfunction is an indication of a more serious health condition, you should be seeing a physician. It is best to visit with a physician first to eliminate those options. Jumping directly to treatment or medication for erectile dysfunction when it is indicating the early stages of heart disease can be dangerous to your health. Overall, good heart health leads to good sexual health.

However, your erectile dysfunction may be an indicator of poor mental health. This is also something you can discuss with your physician. They may refer you to a counselor or psychiatrist if the two of you conclude that that is a probable cause. Taking good care of your physical health can support good mental health, but sometimes a mental health professional’s help is necessary. Stress is a common cause of erectile dysfunction. If there is stress in the relationship or at work that can cause erectile dysfunction.

If your erectile dysfunction is not indicating that there is something wrong with the rest of the body, it may be indicating nerve damage in the penis itself. If that is the case, focused shockwave therapy is one of the best ways to treat erectile dysfunction. It is non-invasive, pain-free, and has shown to have long-term positive effects. 

Focused shockwave therapy improves blood flow throughout the entire penis to restore natural erectile function. It removes micro-plaques within the blood vessel walls. Shockwave therapy creates new blood vessels to erectile tissues and breaks down scar tissue within the penis and erectile tissue. All of these things improve blood flow in the penis, reducing or eliminating erectile dysfunction.

What a Physician Will Do

If you are experiencing erectile dysfunction, your first consultation should be with a primary care doctor. A primary care doctor will run a number of tests to determine the cause of the erectile dysfunction and find any underlying health concerns. They will use the following means to investigate the source.

• Physical exam. This might include careful examination of your penis and testicles and checking your nerves for sensation.
• Blood tests. A sample of your blood might be sent to a lab to check for signs of heart disease, diabetes, low testosterone levels, and other health conditions.
• Urine tests (urinalysis). Like blood tests, urine tests are used to look for signs of diabetes and other underlying health conditions.
• Ultrasound. This test is usually performed by a specialist in an office. It involves using a wand-like device (transducer) held over the blood vessels that supply the penis. It creates a video image to let your doctor see if you have blood flow problems. This test is sometimes done in combination with an injection of medications into the penis to stimulate blood flow and produce an erection.
• Psychological exam. Your doctor might ask questions to screen for depression and other possible psychological causes of erectile dysfunction.

Your steps forward will be determined by what the doctor determines the cause of your erectile dysfunction to be. It may even be a combination of factors that will need to be addressed individually.

Negative Effects of Erectile Dysfunction

Because erectile dysfunction can be an indication of a problem in the cardiovascular system, those with erectile dysfunction are at higher risk of heart attack, stroke, or circulatory problems in the legs.

Erectile dysfunction can also directly cause depression, low self-esteem, and distress in sexual relationships. Erectile dysfunction can also make it so that you cannot get your partner pregnant or have anxiety. If erectile dysfunction is directly impacting your quality of life, it should be treated.

Risk Factors for Erectile Dysfunction

Some lifestyles and health conditions put you at greater risk for erectile dysfunction. If you have or do one or more of the following, you can be affecting your sexual health. Taking care of your overall physical health positively impacts your ability to have and keep an erection.

• Being over age 50 
• Having high blood sugar (Diabetes)
• Having high blood pressure 
• Having cardiovascular disease
• Having high cholesterol
• Smoking
• Using drugs or drinking too much alcohol
• Being obese
• Lacking exercise

As you age, erectile dysfunction becomes more common. However, it is possible to stay sexually active into your 80s. If you are experiencing erectile dysfunction, it is best to address it rather than ignore it because you are aging. It may be an indicator of a serious health problem.

ED may also come as a side effect from certain medications. Make sure that you discuss the possible side effects of any medications you are using with your primary care doctor. If the medications are causing you erectile dysfunction, you may want to change to a different drug. Primary care doctors can offer you different options for whatever health problem you are treating. Most drugs have alternatives that may work better for you. However, that is not always an option.

You may experience erectile dysfunction if there is conflict in your relationship. Emotional stress can directly impact your ability to have sex. If you are experiencing relationship stress, you may want to attend couples counseling. Working through relationship conflict can reduce stress and increase sexual pleasure. Talk to your partner and your doctor about attending couples counseling if you believe that this may be a cause of your erectile dysfunction. Some couples counselors are specialized in sexual issues and can help you and your partner to have more pleasurable sex in general.

Lifestyle Changes That Can Help

Taking care of your health, in general, affects your sexual health. Overall, what is healthy for the heart is healthy for sex. Regular exercise, even as simple as walking, can improve sexual health and reduce erectile dysfunction. Quit smoking. If you are having trouble quitting, confer with your doctor for help.

If you are overweight, it can cause—or worsen—erectile dysfunction. Work with your doctor to lose extra weight. Get treatment for alcohol or drug problems. Drinking too much or taking certain illegal drugs can worsen erectile dysfunction directly or by causing long-term health problems.

Taking good care of yourself can give you more energy and confidence for sex, also. The effects can be psychological as well as physical. Make a few small lifestyle changes and see if they can help you have a better experience during sex. Communicate with your partner for support.

How Genesys Men’s Health Can Help

Genesys Men’s Health offers the most comprehensive treatment for erectile dysfunction. We use focused shockwave therapy and testosterone therapy among other proven treatments to address erectile dysfunction. We take cases that other people have given up on. Our treatment is comprehensive and effective.

90% of our patients see success and the majority of those treated continue to see success a year after treatment. Our treatments are not just short-term fixes but help the penis heal itself so that the results last. We offer topical or injection-based testosterone therapy depending upon your preference.

If you are in Sandy, Utah, come visit our office in Murray. We offer free consultations to see if we can help you improve your quality of life. Contact us to schedule your first visit. Or call us at (801)-671-7456.

If you are new to the diagnosis of Erectile Dysfunction, you might wonder if it will last forever. It can seem overwhelming at times. 

We know that it can be a life adjustment, and we want to bring you all the information and tools we have here. If this sounds like something that might help you, keep reading below. 

Erectile Dysfunction Information 

Erectile Dysfunction, also known as (ED), is a common condition among men across the world. It can occur in men starting at age 50 and older. Although it is more common in older men, diagnosing ED can also occur in men who are 30 and younger. When symptoms start to show up in the younger generation, that is when outside help may be needed. For this age group, it is no longer considered a normal part of aging and should be checked out. 

What Does Erectile Dysfunction Look Like? 

Erectile Dysfunction can look a little different for each individual. Although this is true, there are a few common characteristics to look for across the board. 

1. Loss of sexual libido 
2. Inability to form an erection 
3. Increase in lethargy or no energy 
4. Inability to keep an erection 
5. Uninterested in sex or foreplay 

How Common Is Erectile Dysfunction? 

Nearly 18 million men living all over the world suffer from symptoms of ED. Living a normal life with Erectile Dysfunction is doable. Life as you know it does not end after this prognosis; you just adjust and move forward. 

What Are Causes of Erectile Dysfunction? 

The most common known cause of ED is age. As men get older, ED can be a common side effect of the natural aging process. A few other causes of this disorder are: 

• Stress 
• Anxiety 
• Tobacco Use 
• Alcohol Use 
• Drug Use 
• Being Overweight 
• Cardiovascular Disease 
• Diabetes 
• Medications
• Injury to Pelvic Area 

If you are reading that list and thinking about your personal life and what you experience, you might find that you suffer from many of those causes or just nervous that you might develop ED in the future from the causes listed. Either way, there is help available. 

What Should I Do First If I Suspect Erectile Dysfunction? 

If you have been noticing some characteristics particular to ED, call your doctor. Make an appointment with your primary care provider to discuss your symptoms. You can also start to improve your self-care and see the positive changes that doing so can bring. 

What Are the Treatment Options for Erectile Dysfunction? 

Focused Shockwave Therapy 

Focused Shock Wave Therapy is a new therapy option used to treat symptoms of ED. It is used for men who have Vasculogenic ED. Focused Shockwave Therapy uses high-energy sound waves to quicken tissue repair and boost cell growth. There is no anesthesia involved or needed to complete this procedure. Using a wand-shaped device, your provider will place it over different areas of the penis at 15-minute increments. As your appointment progresses, the wand will emit pulsing vibrations that help to trigger blood flow and increased tissue remodeling. 

Radial Wave Therapy 

Using sound waves, Radial Wave Therapy will increase blood flow through the penis. Your provider will use a Radial Wave Wand Device that emits low-intensity energy sound waves. They will use the wand to deliver five points of contact, which will follow at 3 locations on top of the shaft of the penis, and 2 below the shaft of the penis. When the sound waves pass through the skin and the shaft of the penis, blood vessels are prompted to grow, and blood flow improves. Appointments to have this procedure completed need to be scheduled out for 6 treatments over a period of 6 weeks. Each appointment is expected to be less than 30 minutes. 

What Can I Do at Home to Also Improve My Erectile Dysfunction? 

There are a few methods of helping improve your symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction. They are as follows. 

1. Adjust your eating habits 

This might seem daunting at first. Nutrition can often feel like something more complex than it is. Look at how you eat on a day-to-day basis. You might find that you run out of time to eat during the day if you work a full-time job in healthcare, or are a busy stay-at-home parent. Or on the flip side, you might find that you just don’t like cooking, so you eat out most of your meals during the 

week. No matter which side of the coin you find yourself on, ask yourself, “Where can I improve here?” start by picking one area and working on that. It doesn’t have to be a huge change at first. It could be as simple as making your breakfast at home instead of stopping at McDonald’s every morning to grab it. Work on this habit for a few weeks, and when it is learned, pick another one. Repeat this pattern, and you will always be progressing your nutrition at a level that is sustainable long term. This means more results.

2. Put your mental health first 

We all know it. Our mental health is often the first thing that gets put on the back burner when life gets busy. We let go of that monthly meet-up with a long-time friend for lunch, or we say yes to things that are over piling on our plate. When you take the time to put yourself first and take care of your body and mind, amazing things happen. 

3. Get 7-9 hours of restful sleep each night 

What is the second thing that often gets pushed under the rug when life gets chaotic? You guessed it: sleep. Either you are so busy during the day that by the time you wind down, you don’t want to go to sleep because it is your time to do things you want to do. Or the opposite can also be true in this scenario as well. You might find yourself so busy and exhausted that sleep becomes non-existent, except for the 3-4 hours you get when you finally climb into bed after a 12-hour workday most nights of the week. Not only will your body be completely and utterly exhausted, but your mind won’t be able to function as well. You might notice anxiety or depression starting to creep in. You might also notice you catch a cold or start to feel under the weather. Either way, getting adequate sleep is key to keeping your body running efficiently and feeling good. 

4. Implement a consistent exercise routine 

You guessed it! Exercise is the 3rd aspect of life that gets overlooked or dismissed when life gets busy. If you do not have a consistent exercise or workout regime in place in your life right now, don’t wait. Make it a priority. This doesn’t mean you have to go sign up for a gym membership. If you want to, go for it! But there are many different ways to take care of your body and workout, and that even includes at home. Find a trusted program or trainer on YouTube and carve out the time to turn it on and finish. You could also try different classes at a gym or sign up with a friend or accountability partner. Whatever gets you excited about working out, do it. It is recommended that adults fit in 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise activity each week or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity each week. You can do one or the other, or a combination of both. These guidelines are really simple to incorporate. If you sit down and make the time in your schedule, that equates to one 30 minute workout planned for 5 days of the week. This is completely doable with a little planning on your end. The main issue for most people is going to be time. Take the fight out of it now, and plan the schedule, and all you have to do is get dressed and show up. 

5. Have a healthy network of relationships 

One of the likely causes of Erectile Dysfunction symptoms could often be relationship stresses. Taking a mental inventory of relationships in your life can be an awesome tool to boost your mental and physical health. If there are relationships (romantic or otherwise) that are draining, or stressful more than they are a relief, think twice before making further plans with that individual. Take the time to cultivate healthy relationships, and see how your health improves. 

Visit Genesys Men’s Health for Your Erectile Dysfunction Needs

At Genesys Men’s Health, we take each case seriously and want to give you the tools you need to feel like yourself again—and get your life back. If you are suffering from symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction, look no further. With our office located in Salt Lake City, Utah, we have a great team of friendly staff that is ready and able to help you find the answers you need. You can also give us a call at (801)-671-7456. Contact us today!

Erectile Dysfunction can seem daunting when first trying to navigate all the information on the internet. 

We put together this complete FAQ guide to help you in your journey to finding the facts about ED that can help you take your next best step on the road to finding answers.

Erectile Dysfunction

This disorder is characterized by the inability to get or keep an erection for sexual intercourse.

Other Names For Erectile Dysfunction

Some other names you may have heard for this disorder are impotence and ED for short.

Characteristics of Erectile Dysfunction

You might notice some different symptoms if you suffer from ED. Generally, these are low energy, low sexual libido, and the inability to form or keep an erection. A risk factor that is less talked about that is normal is aging. If men live long enough, developing ED is a normal side effect of getting older. According to the Massachusetts Male Aging Study, 52% of men between the ages of 40 and 70 years old reported having symptoms of ED. This percentage can increase as age progresses and is not considered abnormal. If you are a male and are in the younger stage of your life and are experiencing symptoms of this disorder, you can seek additional medical care. It is not uncommon to have some trouble with erections here and there in your lifetime. If it is becoming more and more frequent as you are less than 40 years old, talk to your doctor about what your options are moving forward.

What Causes ED?

The number one cause of Erectile Dysfunction that is normal is aging. Everyone ages as life progresses, and this is just a symptom of our bodies changing. Some other causes of ED are being overweight, diabetes, low Testosterone levels, kidney disease, stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, drinking alcohol, consuming drugs, certain medications, pelvic injuries, surgeries in the pelvic region, sleep disorders, cardiovascular disease, Parkinson’s Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.

Risk Factors for Erectile Dysfunction

Risk factors for this disorder are similar to the causes. In a study done by the Journal of Urology, Obesity and smoking can increase the risk of an individual developing symptoms of ED.

Can ED Be Reversed?

Symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction can be lessened and improved by doing a few things for your overall health. Since this disorder is not just caused by physical ailments alone, but also emotional and psychological, it can take doing more than just taking medication to help. If you want to try improving your symptoms naturally to begin, consult with your doctor. You want to start by taking a mental note or inventory of what your life is like in three areas. Psychological, emotional, and physical. Here is a breakdown of these 3 areas, and questions that can provoke thought to get you thinking about where you might need some extra help.

Psychologically, do you have a hard time setting boundaries in relationships or with work? Do you struggle with time management and accepting too much on your plate? Are you finding that you are burdened down with stress and anxiety? Do you have the tools you need to take care of your mental state?

Emotionally, do you have straining relationships? Do you get drained from interacting with certain people in your social circle? Is there a lot of stress in your romantic relationship? Do you have strong friendships and connections? Do you have a hobby you frequently enjoy? Do you spend valuable time doing things that bring you joy? Do you take time to relax?

Physically, do you get 7-9 hours of sleep each night? Do you exercise 3-5 times per week? Do you eat well, or do you have time to plan your meals? How much water do you drink per day? Do you mobilize and stretch?

Answering these questions can give you a clear look into areas of your life that could be contributing to your symptoms of ED. Where are some areas you need to adjust?

What Can I Do To Prevent Early Onset Of ED?

Although ED can be brought on by old age alone, a healthy diet and exercise program can aid in reducing the risk factors and symptoms that lead to developing ED.

Nutrition can play a key role in many aspects of our lives. One of them being the ability for holistic foods to help combat disease and sickness. This is an area you can start to work on at home. Take a food log of what you eat and drink for breakfast, lunch, and dinner for seven days a week. It might be easier for you to write it down in a notebook or journal so that you can easily compare the day-to-day of what you consume. You can also log on your phone using a tracking app or the notes feature on your mobile device. Here is a log of questions to ask yourself once this is completed; Answer in a YES or NO format.

1.Do I eat veggies with each meal?

2.Do I drink ½ my body weight in oz of water each day?

3.Do I eat protein at each meal?

4.Do I eat mostly packaged snacks?

5.Do I eat out every day?

6.Do I consume more soda drinks than I do water?

7.Do I buy a lot of packaged foods?

8.Do I take a supplement or vitamin every day?

9.Do I plan my meals ahead?

10.Do I eat minimal amounts of candy, ice cream, and cookies/pastries?

If you answer “no” to more than 4 of these questions listed above, you can find some areas to improve and work on over the next couple of weeks. Choose one question and form it into a positive habit. If you answered no to question 1, start incorporating vegetables at each meal for the next week and see how you feel. If that seems like a stretch for you, you can start smaller. Think about ways to add vegetables at lunch every day for a week, and then you can add in other meals as you see success. Small changes over time will reap big rewards. It just takes time. 

Being mindful of certain foods you consume can also help with Testosterone levels which will help with ED. Limiting Soy products, limiting alcohol, decreasing your processed food consumption, overeating and vegetable oil usage will have positive effects in this area.

Eating too little fat, but not enough vitamins and micronutrients, and eating too few calories or overeating too much, has a direct correlation to Testosterone suppression in men. Since low Testosterone Levels is a cause of ED, making sure to dial in your diet is key in keeping yourself healthy and avoiding this disorder.

Exercise is another factor that affects a lot of body processes and functions in our day-to-day life. Exercise doesn’t just affect our physical well-being, but also our emotional and mental health as well. The benefits of the brain alone are jaw-dropping. According to the Center for Disease Control or CDC, exercise can improve symptoms of anxiety and depression in adults. If we recall that anxiety and depression are risk factors for ED, getting our bodies moving has a positive impact on reducing symptoms associated with ED and improves our ability to fight against it.

Exercising for 150 minutes each week performing moderate intensity movement is recommended. This could equate to doing 1-30 minute workout session each day for 5 days of the week. 

Moving your body too much or over training, can have a reverse effect on Testosterone production. Meaning if you over train yourself in your workout regime, you could also be harming yourself by decreasing your Testosterone levels, which will put you at risk for developing Erectile Dysfunction. Participating in regular intense exercise sessions will give you the benefits and the results you need for staying healthy and keeping your Testosterone levels normal.

What Can I Do If I Suspect I Have Erectile Dysfunction?

There are many resources available to get you the help that you need. This is not something that you have to endure alone. Reaching out to your doctor to make that first appointment is going to get you on the right track. Your doctor will schedule you a time to come in and discuss your symptoms as well as past relationship history, current relationship history, sexual history, and complete a physical screening and possibly some blood work.

Treatment Options for ED

Focused Shock Wave Therapy

Focused Shock Wave Therapy is a form of treatment used to improve symptoms of ED that is fairly new. It is best used for men who suffer from Vasculogenic ED. This form of treatment uses high-energy sound waves to quicken tissue repair and boost cell growth. To be seen for Focused Shock Wave Therapy, you do not need to plan for anything invasive. There is no anesthesia involved or needed. Using a wand-shaped device, your provider will place it over different areas of the penis at 15-minute increments. During this process, the wand will emit pulsing vibrations that help to trigger blood flow and increased tissue remodeling.

Radial Wave Therapy

Energy Wave Therapy is another term used for Radial Wave Therapy. This treatment option is also used to improve symptoms of ED. Using sound waves, this therapy will increase blood flow through the penis. Your doctor will use a Radial Wave Wand Device that emits low-intensity energy sound waves. Your doctor will use the wand to deliver five points of contact, which will follow at 3 locations on top of the shaft of the penis, and 2 below the shaft of the penis. As the sound waves pass through the skin and through the shaft of the penis, blood vessels are prompted to grow, and blood flow improves. To continue to see progress, appointments need to be scheduled out for 6 treatments over a period of 6 weeks. Each appointment is expected to be less than 30 minutes.

Medications: These medications can be taken orally or through an intra-urethral suppository.

Counseling: If your symptoms of ED are caused by psychological issues, seeing a therapist or counselor can be a viable form of treatment.

Penis Pumps: These devices use a vacuum seal to pull blood into the penis that creates an erection.

Implants: This option involves invasive surgery to place structures on both sides of the penis. These structures can either be inflatable or rods.

Injections: These injections can be taken in the office or at home. Injections are directly made into the penis.

Blood Vessel Surgery: Sometimes, obstructed arteries in the penis can be bypassed to improve ED.

Our ED Self-Test

A useful resource we have to offer is our online Erectile Dysfunction Self-Test. This is our SHIM test or Sexual Health Inventory For Men test. By answering some questions on our website, you can get a better idea on where you stand in your symptoms of ED, and how you can start on the path to getting the help you need. Once you answer the questions on our test, it is submitted to our office and reviewed by our staff. You can then talk with one of our doctors about your results at a discounted price of $30.00.  

Visit Genesys Men’s Health for Your Erectile Dysfunction Needs

At Genesys Men’s Health, we specialize in difficult health scenarios that others have given up on. When it comes to Erectile Dysfunction, we have the knowledge and expertise to help get you on the right path to a better you. We hope you have enjoyed this completed FAQ Guide on Erectile Dysfunction. Just as your needs are unique to you, so is your treatment. Take our free ED Self-Test or book your free hormone evaluation. You can also come visit our office located in Sandy, Utah, or give us a call at (801)-671-7456 to find out more. We serve men throughout all of Salt Lake County and surrounding areas. Contact us today!

If you are a male and have been diagnosed with Erectile Dysfunction (ED), there might be a lot of information you don’t know about your condition. 

We are sharing all the facts on Erectile Dysfunction here, including what it is, if it is a permanent disorder, and steps you can take to improve your symptoms for a better quality of life.

Erectile Dysfunction Explained

Erectile Dysfunction is a common disorder that occurs in men. Generally, this condition can appear in males over the age of 30, and increases in chances of onset as you age. ED is characterized by the inability to have an erection that can stimulate intercourse. If this occurrence happens once in a while or occasionally, it is not considered abnormal. This can happen for men across the globe every now and then. If these problems persist at least ½ of the time and are interfering with your life, you could be experiencing symptoms of ED. If you have never been capable of getting or keeping an erection, this is also a sign you have this type of dysfunction and help is available. There’s nothing to be ashamed of. 

What Causes Erectile Dysfunction?

There is an array of causes of ED, both are physical and mental or emotional. Diabetes, high blood pressure, hormone issues, low Testosterone levels, depression, anxiety, stress, kidney disease, relationship issues, sleep disorders, drug use, alcohol use, Parkinson’s disease, prescription medications, and injury or damage to the pelvic area.

What Are the Symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction?

Some symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction are as follows: difficulty getting an erection, difficulty keeping an erection, lack of interest in sex, low sexual desire or libido.

Are My Symptoms Permanent?

There are generally two categories or types of ED. The first is termed “Primary ED.” This is when a man has never had the ability to get or keep an erection in his lifetime. This specific category is more difficult to alleviate. The second type is called “ Secondary ED.” Secondary ED is more common than Primary ED and is characterized by the loss of being able to get or keep an erection. So, to begin with, you had no issue with day-to-day sexual activities, and then things changed and it became a problem. This type can usually be reversed with treatments and lifestyle changes.

Are There Things I Can Do to Prevent Erectile Dysfunction?

There are a few things you can do to reduce your ED symptoms and ultimately reverse your condition. Medications can address the short-term causes and help with symptoms. Lifestyle changes will be long-term and usually can address the underlying causes of the disorder to help get you back on track. 

Stress and anxiety can play a major role in this disorder manifesting itself. If this is an area of your life that you struggle with, you have the option to start here. Think about the things in your life that cause you stress. How can you better manage and address these issues in your life? You might consider picking up a yoga class a few times per week, learning how to meditate, seeing a counselor, and really honing in on your self-care. This could also look like thinking about your plate and how many tasks you can say no to, and what you can delegate to free up time in your schedule. Can you set healthy boundaries with work? Start implementing them now.

Diet and exercise also play a key role in preventing this type of dysfunction. Exercise has many benefits for the mind and body. It boosts blood flow, aids in weight loss, and can increase mood. For individuals who participate in regular, intense exercise, blood plasma concentrations of Testosterone will increase after working out. Having a consistent exercise routine also helps to clear the mind and relieve stress and anxiety, along with the other physical benefits that come with regularly moving your body.

Creating a better diet for yourself means taking better care of your body. When I say “diet,” I don’t mean a 6-week challenge or fad diet that will have you cringing by week 3 and rebounding all the weight back you lost 5 days after it’s over. When I say “diet,” I am referring to strictly nutrition and what you choose to feed your body on a day-to-day basis. No strings or challenges attached. Making your diet a lifestyle change with nutrient-dense foods every day, will get you well on your way to reversing your Erectile Dysfunction. Food is medicine, and it can be a powerful tool for those individuals who find themselves with symptoms of ED.

Wellness checks or routine health exams are also essential to your overall wellness. Physicals each year are a great opportunity to check in with your body and address some issues or problems you may be experiencing. This creates room to find out the root of the problems and get you the tools you need to get back on track sooner and healthier. Taking care of current issues can often lead you to avoid symptoms of ED and increase your chances of not getting Erectile Dysfunction in the long run.

Here are a few more things you can do to put your mental, emotional, and physical health on the front lines to decrease your chances of acquiring this disorder.

• Journal every day.
• Make your meals ahead of time & include protein at each one.
• Exercise at least 3X per week for 30-45 minutes. Increase intensity.
• Mobilize and stretch.
• Pick up a hobby.
• Drink ½ your body weight in OZ of water every day.
• Make your yearly physical exam appointments and show up.
• Eat vegetables at every meal.
• Buy yourself a water bottle and carry it with you at work.
• Enjoy your favorite foods.
• If needed, seek out a licensed therapist. Make an appointment.

Where Do I Start If I Notice Symptoms?

If you feel you are noticing consistent symptoms that could be related to a more serious ED condition, there are a few things you can do. Make an appointment with your doctor. Write down any questions or concerns you may have and bring them to your visit so you can address them with your doctor. Your appointment will most likely consist of a wellness exam or physical, discussions of symptoms you are experiencing, routine questions on your sexual history, current sexual relationships and partners, and other aspects of your life that might offer critical insight into your unique situation. A blood test might also be included depending on where your doctor feels the best path for you to take is and what you are comfortable with personally.

What Are The Treatment Options?

There are a few different treatment options for ED. They are as follows:

Focused Shock Wave Therapy

Shockwave Therapy is a treatment option for Erectile Dysfunction, and it has become increasingly popular in recent years. There are several studies that show a positive result. This form of therapy has been shown to work best with men who have Vasculogenic ED since this form affects the blood flow to the penis. 

Shockwave Therapy will use high-energy sound waves to quicken tissue repair and boost cell growth. Shockwave therapy helps to improve the blood flow to the penis and strengthens blood vessels in the process. For this procedure, you do not need any anesthesia. Your specialist will use a wand-shaped device and place it on different areas of the penis alternating around 15 minutes each. The wand emits small pulsing vibrations that help trigger blood flow and boost tissue remodeling. There is currently no set protocol for recurring treatments. The most common treatment plan is two times a week for a period of three weeks, followed by no treatments for the next three weeks, and then repeating treatments twice a week for the next three weeks.

Most research that has been performed, has shown no side effects after completing the procedure for men with ED. There is also shown to be no pain associated with the treatment. Since this is a relatively new procedure, there is a need for more extensive research to reveal any lasting effects from Shockwave Therapy for ED. This procedure is usually an out of pocket cost since insurance won’t offer coverage for it, but it is a worthwhile investment that helps men reclaim their confidence. 

Radial Wave Therapy

Termed Energy Wave Therapy, in other words, this is another method to help treat Erectile Dysfunction in men. This form of therapy does not involve taking pills or having penile implants or any injections. Radial Wave Therapy uses sound waves to improve blood flow through the penis. The FDA has not approved this method of treatment, although it has shown to have positive results in helping to treat dysfunction in the patients who use it.

A doctor will use a radial wave wand device to deliver low-intensity energy sound waves to the shaft of the penis. During the treatment session, there are five points of contact with the wand to deliver the sound waves. Three on the top of the shaft and an additional two below the shaft. The sound waves pass through the skin and into the tissue to promote blood vessels to grow and increase blood flow, which will in turn increase erectile projections. This treatment is not a one-time appointment option. Generally, Radial Wave Therapy is done over a period of six weeks at twenty-minute increments for a total of six treatments. Since there is no pain associated with this treatment option, normal life can resume after the session. There are no proven adverse side effects as yet seen by research. Since Radial Wave Therapy is a non-invasive procedure, there is also no recovery time scheduled. Sexual life and activities can resume as normal as soon as possible.

Injections

These are a series of injections that include medication injected into the penis to produce an erection. Ideally, these erections should last 20-40 minutes. If you have one that lasts longer than one hour, the adjustment will be needed on the medication dosage.

Urethral Suppository

This is a tiny suppository that is placed inside the urethra with a special applicator. An erection with this method of treatment should last 30-60 minutes.

TRT (Testosterone Replacement Therapy)

This is a method to treat low Testosterone, but also to treat this type of dysfunction. For those individuals whose ED is complicated or made worse by low T, this option is a viable one. TRT can be delivered through injections, patches, gum, and oral pellets, subcutaneous pellets, and medication.

Counseling & Therapy

This form of therapy for ED will address the mind. For those individuals whose ED is primarily caused by stress or anxiety, this route is a very helpful option. This can be for the individual who is suffering from ED alone, or their partner as well. Both can benefit from going to see a therapist.

Penis Pump

A Penis Pump is a vacuum erection device. Its purpose is to be used to pull blood into the penis.

Penis Implants

This is a medical procedure that involves placing devices on each side of the penis. These devices can be inflatable or made of a harder material rod.

Blood Vessel Surgery

This is also a medical procedure. In the case that penile arteries are obstructed, this procedure would choose to fix said arteries.

Visit Genesys Men’s Health for Your Erectile Dysfunction Needs

Here at Genesys Men’s Health, we serve individuals in all age ranges and different walks of life.

We know that every single person is unique and different, and so should their care be also. Our doctors take the time to know each individual’s needs and find the best solution for them that is available. If you have questions about Erectile Dysfunction and are searching for answers, come stop by. We have an office located in Sandy, Utah. Stop by and chat with our friendly staff or give us a call at (801)-671-7456. Contact us today!