Low Testosterone and Erectile Dysfunction: Frequent Questions About Low Testosterone and Impotence

Here are common questions about low testosterone and erectile dysfunction:

Are there treatments available for men with low testosterone and erectile dysfunction?

There are several ED treatments available for men with low testosterone and impotence. Men should consider that erectile dysfunction is often a symptom of another health issue.

Therefore, men with low testosterone and erectile dysfunction should seek medical advice from an expert for the right ED treatment.

I have low testosterone and oral ED medications do not work for me. Is this normal?

This can be normal. Oral ED medications are effective in relieving ED symptoms. However, effectiveness may vary according to the severity of the case.

Some oral ED medications won’t work with other patients. Although, there are other safe and effective ED treatment options available.

Does low testosterone therapy have sexual side effects?

The most common effects of testosterone treatments are often nonsexual in nature. Low testosterone therapy is a common treatment and side effects may greatly vary.

Low testosterone therapy can potentially damage the liver. Thus, it is important to talk with a doctor prior to having an ED treatment.

Prostate-related issues are another concern that requires prompt ED treatment. Low testosterone levels could be an adverse effect of your current medication. However, there are other options that can reverse these effects without interfering your current medications.

Can low testosterone lead to impotence?

A severe drop in testosterone levels can cause impotence. Thus, there are preventive ways to help improve testosterone levels and erectile function. This includes proper exercise, keeping low cholesterol levels, maintaining an ideal weight and refraining from smoking.

There are manifold ED treatments available in the market. However, it’s best to talk with a doctor about the right low testosterone and ED treatment.

How low testosterone cause erectile dysfunction?

Erections are triggered by the release of testosterone. Testosterone promotes adequate blood flow to the penis.

A decreasing blood flow can result to inability of the penis to sustain ample erection for penetration. Low testosterone and impotence can also result to low libido and poor sexual drive.

High Cholesterol and Erectile Dysfunction: Decreases Cardiovascular Function and Sex Life

High cholesterol problems hinder the body’s mechanism to work well. In the first place, why do we have cholesterol in our bodies? Cholesterol has manifold functions, and it naturally exists in the outer layers of the human cell.  Cholesterol is important for hormone production, cell membrane formation and other vital body functions.  However, high cholesterol can lead to coronary heart disease (CAD) and is the leading cause of cardiac arrest. Excessive intake of saturated fats is one of the chief causes of high cholesterol. Also, a great link exists between high cholesterol and erectile dysfunction.  Experts show that increasing levels of LDL (low density lipoprotein) can lead to erection problems.

What is Cholesterol?

The word cholesterol comes from the Greek word “chole” which means bile and “stereos” which means solid or stiff.  It is a waxy fat substance produced in the liver and circulated throughout the bloodstream.  Cholesterol is produced in the body through the liver and dietary intake of fats.  Our liver produces certain types of cholesterol. It is also responsible for the secretion and regulation of cholesterol in the bloodstream. Dietary intake of fats such as cheese burgers is another source of cholesterol.  In men, excessive intake of fatty foods can lead to high cholesterol and impotence.

The following are few functions of cholesterol:

• It builds and maintains the outer layers of cell membranes and prevents crystallization of hydrocarbons into the membrane.
• It is a key player in deciding which molecules are permissible to enter the cell.
• It aids in producing both male and female sex hormones.
• It is also essential in producing adrenal gland hormones.
• It helps in bile production.
• It takes sunshine and converts into Vitamin D
• It helps in the digestion of fat soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K)
• Provides nerve fiber insulation

How Do People Get High Cholesterol and Erectile Dysfunction?

Unhealthy lifestyle and family history are predisposing factors of high cholesterol problems. A family history of coronary heart disease (CAD) has a greater chance of having high cholesterol and ED. The increasing chance of having erectile dysfunction is a result of high levels of bad cholesterol in the bloodstream. Erectile Dysfunction is common among men who consume saturated fats more than the daily recommended limit. Also, studies have proved that race serves as one of the risk factors of high cholesterol problems. Therefore, people from Indian sub-continent such as Pakistan, Bangladesh, India and Sri Lanka are more susceptible than those from the white population.

Causes of High Cholesterol

Lifestyle choices such as excessive intake of fatty foods are some of the causes of high cholesterol levels. Sweets, red meat, pies, sausages and other processed foods contain high cholesterol levels. In addition, lack of exercises and too much smoking and drinking can cause elevation of cholesterol levels. Hence, it is important to know the causes of high cholesterol and how to control cholesterol and prevent erectile dysfunction.

Erectile Dysfunction: A Symptom of Heart Disease

Recent study conducted by Prince Henry’s Institute in Melbourne Australia published in the Medical Journal of Australia found that men over 20 years of age with erectile dysfunction (ED) have twice the risk of cardiovascular accidents than those of normal men sexual health. It was also found out that 2% of men aged 55 and older experienced major stroke and cardiac arrest after the initial episode of ED within a year. On the other hand, 11% experienced within five years.  Experts from Prince Henry’s Institute warned men with regards to failure to seek advice on erectile dysfunction and high blood pressure. As a result, this may warrant a missing vital warning of impending symptom of heart disease. Why is this happening? Do men with ED predispose them to have cardiovascular diseases and strokes or just the other way around?

Erectile dysfunction can be a symptom of heart disease. Erection is caused by engorgement of blood into the penile tissues which later becomes rigid for penetration. Men with heart problem suffer from an inadequate blood flow to the smooth tissues of the penis to achieve erection. A major cardiovascular disease known as Atherosclerosis is a result of fat accumulation in the arterial blood vessels. This builds up of multiple plaques or fatty material causes the arteries to narrow and harden thus limiting blood flow. The arteries supplying your penis are smaller than those supplying your heart. In fact, ED can be an initial symptom of heart diseases like Atherosclerosis. Cardiovascular problems can also damage penile nerves and arteries, inhibiting erectile function. Thus, experts found a consistent link between ED and heart disease. Also, recent researches conducted by health professionals showed a direct connection between erection and heart problem.

Most of the time, ED is the first symptom of poor cardiovascular health. Hypertension oftentimes doesn’t manifest outward symptoms of heart disease.  Some men go undiagnosed with high blood pressure for so long. Also, it is troublesome for several men who feel uncomfortable discussing with their health providers about erectile dysfunction. Therefore, they fail to seek medical advice and suffer from progressive worsening of their cardiovascular problems before deciding to undergo treatment.

Erectile dysfunction and heart disease are very serious medical condition that requires prompt treatment. In addition to being a symptom of heart disease; ED is link to many other physical and psychological problems. Men with ED can be withdrawn from their partner and even avoid romantic relationships. It may be difficult for men with erectile dysfunction to reproduce and can lead to low self-esteem, depression and poor work performance.  Therefore, frequent medical check up for patient with erectile dysfunction and high blood pressure is necessary.

Type 2 Diabetes: Healthy Tips For Men

How Type 2 Diabetes Breaks American Lifestyle?

Type 2 Diabetes is the seventh deadliest disease in US causing over 233,000 deaths in 2005.  According to the American Diabetes Association, over 23 million Americans have diabetes and 1.6 million new cases are diagnosed within ages 20 years old each year. Diabetes is epidemic in United States. Although juvenile diabetes increasingly affects a lot of people, about 23% of Americans have diabetes over 60 years of age.

Are You At Risk for Type 2 Diabetes?

Overweight is one of the dreadful predisposing factors in developing type 2 diabetes. More fatty tissue you have in your body, the more your body is resistant to insulin. Another predisposing factor is the family history. If one of the family members has type 2 diabetes, there are greater chances of acquiring this disease.

Race and ethnicity also play a vital role in developing diabetes.  African-Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans, Native-born Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders are at high risk of developing diabetes.

Here are Healthy Tips for Men to Lessen Chances of Type 2 Diabetes:

Lose Weight

If you are on the cusp of being overweight, just losing a few pounds helps lower chances of acquiring type 2 diabetes. Hence, proper weight is essential to control blood sugar level.  Recent study shows that by just losing 5 to 10 pounds, there are lesser chances of having type 2 diabetes up to 58%. If a diabetic patient intends to lose weight, forget the yo-yo diet and go for the diet for diabetics. Remember, fad diets fluctuate your weight and produces risky effects in the body.

Whole Grains in the Diet

How to lower blood sugar level with whole grains? Scientists haven’t yet nail down why whole grain eaters have lower chances of type 2 diabetes.  Eating whole grains lowers blood glucose and helps control blood sugar level. So next time you’re in the store, switch to whole grain cereal and bread and make a big difference!

Get Up, Move Around, and Exercise

Just 30 minutes per day for 4-5 times a week can make a big difference in your overall health. Daily exercise prevents diabetes and lowers blood sugar level. You don’t have to jump over hurdles or go sprinting down the block, a daily walk is helpful. A habit of walking makes you feel energetic while controlling your blood sugar levels.

If you’re at risk for type 2 diabetes, lifestyle changes will help control your blood sugar levels. This will keep you from developing health problems associated with type 2 diabetes. Diabetes damages vital organs including blood vessels, which could lead to blindness and amputation.

Type 2 Diabetes is a leading cause of erectile dysfunction and impotence. Therefore, healthy tips for men with type 2 diabetes are important. Start living a happy and healthy lifestyle while reducing risk for type 2 diabetes.

High Cholesterol Level: Decreases Cardiovascular Function

High cholesterol problems, such as erectile dysfunction,  hinder the body’s mechanism to work well. In the first place, why do we have cholesterol in our bodies? Cholesterol has manifold functions, and it naturally exists in the outer layers of the human cell.  Cholesterol is important for hormone production, cell membrane formation and other vital body functions.  However, high cholesterol can lead to coronary heart disease (CAD) and is the leading cause of cardiac arrest. Excessive intake of saturated fats is one of the chief causes of high cholesterol. Also, a great link exists between high cholesterol and ED.  Experts show that increasing levels of LDL (low density lipoprotein) can lead to ED.

What is Cholesterol?

The word cholesterol comes from the Greek word “chole” which means bile and “stereos” which means solid or stiff.  It is a waxy fat substance produced in the liver and circulated throughout the bloodstream.  Cholesterol is produced in the body through the liver and dietary intake of fats.  Our liver produces certain types of cholesterol. It is also responsible for the secretion and regulation of cholesterol in the bloodstream. Dietary intake of fats such as cheese burgers is another source of cholesterol.  In men, excessive intake of fatty foods can lead to high cholesterol and impotence.

The following are few functions of cholesterol:

• It builds and maintains the outer layers of cell membranes and prevents crystallization of hydrocarbons into the membrane.
• It is a key player in deciding which molecules are permissible to enter the cell.
• It aids in producing both male and female sex hormones.
• It is also essential in producing adrenal gland hormones.
• It helps in bile production.
• It takes sunshine and converts into Vitamin D
• It helps in the digestion of fat soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K)
• Provides nerve fiber insulationHow Do People Get High Cholesterol and Erectile Dysfunction?

  Unhealthy lifestyle and family history are predisposing factors of high cholesterol and ED. A family history of coronary heart disease (CAD) has a greater chance of having high cholesterol and ED. The increasing chance of having erectile dysfunction is a result of high levels of bad cholesterol in the bloodstream. Erectile Dysfunction is common among men who consume saturated fats more than the daily recommended limit. Also, studies have proved that race serves as one of the risk factors of high cholesterol and ED. Therefore, people from Indian sub-continent such as Pakistan, Bangladesh, India and Sri Lanka are more susceptible than those from the white population.

  Causes of High Cholesterol

  Lifestyle choices such as excessive intake of fatty foods are some of the causes of high cholesterol levels. Sweets, red meat, pies, sausages and other processed foods contain high cholesterol levels. In addition, lack of exercises and too much smoking and drinking can cause elevation of cholesterol levels. Hence, it is important to know the causes of high cholesterol and ED and how to control cholesterol and prevent erectile dysfunction.

Multiple Sclerosis: Famous People With MS in the United States

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a debilitating disease that affects the central nervous system leading to nerve damage to the brain and spinal cord. Although multiple sclerosis affects every patient differently, the disease itself can lead to an inability to move freely, poor communication skills and loss of bladder and bowel control.

MS can severely affect sexual function in men, leading to erectile dysfunction and impotence. On the other hand, erectile dysfunction predisposes men to poor libido and problems with erection.

Throughout history, there are valiant people who are able to go public after being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. They have also raised the spirits of their fellow MS sufferers and, are able to educate the public about multiple sclerosis.

Here are some famous faces of multiple sclerosis that have raised awareness about the disorder:

Annette Funicello (1942)

Annette Funicello was one of Disney’s original “Mouseketeers” in the 1950’s. She also became the famous teen idol in many films including “The Shaggy Dog and Babes in Toyland”. She also released several hit songs as a recording artist and became a beach icon in several films with Frankie Avalon.

Later in life, Annette Funicello became a popular spokesperson for several household products. Annette was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in the late ‘80s. Although she was afraid to be misunderstood by the public, due to her shaky appearance with alcoholism.

Annette Funicello prefers to expose her problems with multiple sclerosis. To battle MS, she established “The Annette Funicello Fund for Neurological Disorders” at the California Community Foundation in 1993.

Richard Pryor (1940 – 2005)

Richard Pryor has been called the “Picasso of our profession” by comedian Jerry Seinfeld. He was popular in transforming American comedy through his frank discussion of race, contemporary issues, drugs and his personal life.

In addition, Richard Pryor starred in several hit films including Stir Crazy and Bustin’ Loose and The Toy. He co-wrote one of the most revered comedies of all time known as the Mel Brooks’ Blazing Saddles.

However, Pryor was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1986. Toward the end of his life, he quoted as saying “the drugs didn’t kill me, the fire didn’t kill me and my ex-wives didn’t kill me. However, there is no way I’m going to let the multiple sclerosis kill me.”

Montel Williams (1956)

Montel Williams is the first African American enlisted Marine to complete and graduate both the Academy Prep School and Annapolis. After his military career in 1991, he went on to host the Daytime Emmy-award winning, nationally-syndicated Montel Williams Show which ran for 17 years.

In 1999, Montel was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. In an effort to raise funds for MS research, Montel created “The Montel Williams MS Foundation”. He is also committed to increased awareness and raised funds for multiple sclerosis research.

Depression and ED: Finding The Right Treatment For Depression

Depression and erectile dysfunction (ED) can potentially spoil a man’s sex drive. This common scenario often results to impotence in men.  Research shows that erectile dysfunction and depression are interrelated in terms of symptoms.

Possible Effects of Depression in Men

Depression can cause erectile dysfunction and vice versa. Experts support a strong relationship between depression and impotence. Hence, sexual dysfunction is one of the serious effects of depression in men.

Depression causes several men to develop humiliation and apathy. This negative outlook will later on create serious depression and ED. Furthermore, feelings of despair can affect men’s sexual performance in bed.

Depressive men also report a poor sex drive and lack of interest in sex. They often suffer from poor libido by altering the brain chemistry.

Depression is a mood disorder that causes biological changes in the brain. It works by altering neurotransmitters which often inhibits the brain’s ability to react to sexual stimuli. As a result, men suffer from erectile dysfunction and impotence.

Men with depression and impotence often have difficulty in transmitting brain signals to the penis and elicit erections. Although, impotent men can also experience depression and feelings of failure.

Effective Treatments for Depression and Impotence

There are treatments for depression that affect sexual health. Several men are taking psychotic drugs to treat depressive disorders. This includes selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), MAO inhibitors and TCA.

According to a 2006 article in the American Journal of Psychiatry, 30 to 50 percent of men who take SSRIs exhibit symptoms of erectile dysfunction. Depression and ED often occur in conjunction with one another. However, there are manifold treatments available for both conditions.

Intracavernous pharmacotherapy (ICP) is proven safe and effective for men with depression and impotence. It is useful along with other oral medications to combat depression.

Moreover, other treatments include vacuum suction devices, hormonal replacement therapies and sexual counseling can help improve sexual function.

Therefore, men with depression and ED should have a routine medical screening to prevent health threats.

Depression Therapy: Having Your Own Pet

Pets as therapy for depression are proven effective for depressive patients. Recent studies show that pets are helping people with rumination in numerous ways.

Exercise with Pets

Proper exercise can help fight depression. However, experts support exercise with pets can create a positive effect in people with depression.

Do depressed people own more pets? A study by Social Indicators Research states that people with pets are more likely active than those who don’t have.

Daily activities with your pets serve as a healthy workout. Also, the favorable effects of pets on people help increase endorphin levels in the bloodstream.

Endorphin is an endogenous neurotransmitter responsible for reducing pain perception. Pets as therapy for depression along with exercise enhance endorphin production. Therefore, exercise with pets is helpful for depressive patients.

Positive Effects of Pets in People with Depression

Studies show that elderly is more receptive to nourishment if they have pets. This type of therapy has led many charities to bring animals to nursing homes and hospitals to help enliven people.

Pets often ease feelings of despair and worthlessness. The effects of pets in people with depression help uphold a productive life.

Oftentimes, people get relief from feelings of isolation when pets are beside them. Having pets will also help uplift positive outlook.

Pets as Preeminent Comforters

Pets can offer physical contact and unconditional love for their owners. They often furnish love and care in manifold ways.  A healing purr or a lick on the face can provide a sense of relief.

On the other hand, pets are helping people with rumination by allowing them to become expressive. Therefore, depressive people should opt to have a pet as therapy for depression.

Depression and Erectile Dysfunction: Looking For Effective Therapy For Depression in Men

Medical screening is vital in deciding the right treatment for depression. Specialist will provide careful assessment and initiates effective therapies for depression.

Psychiatrist and psychologist work to help improve mental health and provide treatments for depression. Oftentimes, psychiatrist prescribes anti-depressant medications while psychologist offers effective therapy for depression.

Serious Effects of Anti-depressant Medication

Anti-depressant medications will take two to six weeks to take effect. However, desirable changes can occur in a short time. Some psychotic drugs can cause sexual dysfunction. Thus, seek for medical advice before undergoing treatment.

In addition, other serious side effects of antidepressants include poor sex drive, decrease sexual stimulation and inability to sustain erections.

Oral medications along with effective therapies for depression will help fight sexual dysfunction and impotence. Therefore, it’s best to plan a medical appointment for the right treatment for depression.

Effective Therapies for Depression

Mental health practitioner establishes group therapy and support groups. Also, behavioral therapies are essential in finding out the contributing factors of depression.

Therapist will begin working with lifestyle modification including interpersonal adjustments when contributing factors are recognized.

Effective therapies for depression can help reveal the root of depression. Thus, it is important to obtain constant communication with the therapist to achieve desirable results.

Health therapy for depression and erectile dysfunction requires patience and hard work.  Therefore, successful therapy can create a productive life even in the absence of anti-depressant medications.

Can Multiple Sclerosis Lead To Erectile Dysfunction?

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society estimates that multiple sclerosis (MS) and erectile dysfunction (ED) affect over 400,000 people in the United States alone. Furthermore, they estimate that 91% of men with MS report having symptoms of either ED or impotence.

Erectile dysfunction is the inability to achieve and maintain erections sufficient for sexual intercourse. ED will affect 1 in 3 men worldwide at some point of their lives.

Although erectile dysfunction is unusual among older males, the onset of multiple sclerosis’ warning signs often affect men over 20 to 40 years.

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic debilitating disease of the central nervous system. MS works by invading the body’s immune response resulting to extensive damage to the myelin sheath of the nerve cells.

The destruction of nerve cells will later form scar tissues or sclerosis. The formation of sclerosis affects the ability of the central nervous system to function effectively. Thus, the severity and course of the disease varies in every case.

Understanding Multiple Sclerosis and Erectile dysfunction

Sexual dysfunction is common in men with multiple sclerosis. Experts support how multiple sclerosis and impotence affect men’s sexual function. Both MS and ED can cause serious symptoms affecting men’s ability to sustain erections.

Nerve damage as a result of MS often leads to poor erection reflex. Hence, a soft, unnoticeable erection takes place. Multiple sclerosis and ED can also lead to poor sex drive and decreasing sexual stimulation.

Furthermore, MS and ED can also lead to problems with retrograde ejaculation and impotence.  Retrograde ejaculation refers to the false entry of semen into the bladder during orgasm. On the other hand, impotence is a condition often results to inability to achieve orgasm.

MS and Erectile Dysfunction Treatments

Some medications for multiple sclerosis have potential threat to sexual function. There are available treatment options for MS and ED in the market. However, men undergoing MS and erectile dysfunction treatments require conclusive supervision from an expert.

Health conditions can manifest themselves in several ways in the body. Therefore, men with multiple sclerosis and ED should undergo medical screening and substantial treatment.