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Preventing Erectile Dysfunction and Coping With It

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Erectile dysfunction has become a well-known medical condition. With the invention of Viagra, constant commercials about ED medications and the willingness of men to talk about the problem, this condition has become less taboo and more understood. Millions of men battle erectile dysfunction, and those that don’t may worry the condition will someday plague them. Medications like Viagra, Staxyn and Cialis can help, but there are things men can do prevent erectile dysfunction. The following tips are from the Mayo Clinic website.

Change Your Lifestyle

  • If you smoke, quit. If you have trouble quitting, get help. Try nicotine replacement (such as gum or lozenges), available over-the-counter, or ask your doctor about prescription medication that can help you quit.
  • Lose weight. Being overweight can cause — or worsen — erectile dysfunction.
  • Get regular exercise. This can help with underlying problems that play a part in erectile dysfunction in a number of ways, including reducing stress, helping you lose weight and increasing blood flow.
  • 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.
  • Work through relationship issues. Improve communication with your partner and consider couples or marriage counseling if you’re having trouble working through problems on your own.

Make Healthy Decisions

  • Work with your doctor to manage diabetes, heart disease or other chronic health problems.
  • See your doctor for regular checkups and medical screening tests.
  • Stop smoking, limit or avoid alcohol, and don’t use street drugs.
  • Exercise regularly.
  • Take steps to reduce stress.
  • Get help for anxiety or depression.

Coping and Support

Don’t assume erectile dysfunction is a long-term problem. Talk to your doctor about treatments, but understand that many men do overcome the condition. Talk to your partner about the problem and include them in the conversation about treatments plans. If you have more questions, there are online support groups and forums that can offer help.

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