Alternative Medicine for Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile Dysfunction

Image by attila.szantner via Flickr

While the first step should be to your doctor to ensure that you are healthy, the next step may be to finding the right alternative medicine for your ED. Many men face erectile dysfunction and they are quite capable of overcoming this problem. The good news is that many of these alternative treatments are very much a healthy option for you.

What Options Work?

Sometimes, the best treatments for conditions like erectile dysfunction are medications. However, some may have side effects or may not work the way you want them to. For this reason, it is a good idea to know what other solutions there are.

  • Acupuncture can be one of those solutions. This method allows for improving the positive blood flow through the body. It is an ancient Chinese method used today by trained professionals.
  • Sometimes, you may be able to get a boost from nutrients. Some good options to consider include Korean red ginseng, also known as Panax ginseng, Yohimbine, Ginkgo and L-arginine. Talk to your alternative medicine provider for more information on dosing.
  • Get healthy. In some cases, you can boost your sexual health by losing 10 percent of your body weight. You can also see improvements by not smoking and avoiding too much alcohol.

For many men, there is help for overcoming ED. It is up to you, though, to find the solution that is right for your specific needs. Take the time to talk to your doctor. Be sure you are healthy. Then, consider these alternative treatments that can help you get back on track.

 

Filed Under: Medicine, Sexual Problem Tagged With: , ,

Talking to Your Doctor About Erectile Dysfunction

Having Erectile Dysfunction can be an embarrassing and shameful condition to most men. The important thing to remember is that you are not alone. Because of the feelings that go along with this issue a lot of men tend to avoid a trip to the doctor. This will help you understand how to talk to your doctor, what questions to ask, and what information to give.

Self-diagnosing or self-prescribing for Erectile Dysfunction is very dangerous, although, a lot of men will do this in order to avoid the doctor’s office. If you think you have symptoms of ED it is better to go to the doctor and get an actual diagnosis as there could be serious underlying health problems that are actually causing ED. Such problems as diabetes and heart problems would cause ED. Medications can also cause ED, both prescribed and over-the-counter. Other times it could be a simple change in lifestyle that will do the trick. Smoking, drinking and no exercise can contribute to ED.

viagra is a commercial produced medicine conta...

Image via Wikipedia

Sometimes in our embarrassment we forget to ask some important questions in an effort to escape the room as quickly as possible. This is one thing you want to take time to ask, listen and understand. Provide your doctor with as much information as possible. When you first noticed, what medicines you take, and how you would describe your sex drive is good information to start off with. If you are not satisfied with the information that your doctor gave you or you felt it was rushed and uncomfortable, it is alright to see another doctor. You should feel comfortable when discussing this with your doctor.

 

Filed Under: Health, Sexual Problem Tagged With: , ,

Erectile Dysfunction: Accupuncture

In eastern medicine, the Chinese say that there are two causes for Erectile Dysfunction.  They are either a decline in the Mingmen Fire or downward flowing of the Damp Heat.

You may be experiencing Mingmen Fire Decline if in addition to not being able to obtain an erection or a weak erection you have cold extremities. You may also experience feeling dizzy or listlessness, have a sore and weak lower back and knees, and frequently need to urinate.

You may be experiencing a downward flowing of the Damp Heat if you have a bitter taste in your mouth or are very thirsty in addition to not being able to obtain an erection. You may have urine that is dark red and is hot, as well as feel weak and sore in your lower extremities.

There are physiological changes that need to happen in order for an erection to occur.  There must be arousal, the nervous system must increase the blood flow to the penis, and the blood vessels must relax in order to allow this to happen. After your acupuncturist determines what the cause is, they may choose to use herbs, acupuncture or both to resolve your issues.  Many times it will require 10-20 session at one time each week to achieve desired results.

Acupuncture is different then other treatments in the sense that it does not need to be done in that area.  With Chinese medicine, it uses the entire body, so a majority of the areas that would be treated would be the back and abdomen and extremities. While acupuncture is not the first treatment that usually comes to mind, it is a treatment that can be very effective.

Filed Under: Health, Sexual Problem Tagged With: , ,

Erectile Dysfunction: Penis Pump

I took this picture in July 2007 of a red peni...

Image via Wikipedia

Consisting of a plastic tube that fits over the penis, rubber constriction bands, and a battery-powered pump, a Penis Pump is a possible solution for those who experience erectile dysfunction. A Penis Pump is a good option if medication is not working for you and if getting an implant would be a bad idea. The Penis Pump is the erectile dysfunction treatment with the lowest risk for infection, side effects or other complications. It is also the lowest costing treatment to use once you have purchased the Initial pump.

The Penis Pump does not require any surgery, injections or medications. You could choose to use it with other treatments as well, such as medication or a penal implant if desired. It may also help you be able to retain the length and the girth of your penis.

If you have the following issues or risks, the Penis Pump may not be for you:

  • If you take blood thinning medication
  • If you have Sickle Cell Anemia
  • If you have any blood clotting disorders
  • If you have a disorder that makes you bleed

Some of the side effects that you could experience if you choose to use this treatment are:

  • Petechiae, small red dots from bleeding under the surface of the skin on your penis
  • Numbness, coldness or blue skin when the constriction band is in place.
  • A lack of firmness at the base of the penis, causing the issue of pivoting
  • Possible pain and/or bruising of the penis
  • Delayed ejaculation or a sense of semen being trapped during ejaculation

Make sure to consult with your doctor when considering your options for your erectile dysfunction so that you can choose the best solution for you.

Filed Under: Health, Sexual Problem Tagged With: , ,

Erectile Dysfunction: Inflatible Implant

Inflatable penile implants are a great option for those who experience erectile dysfunction and the use of medication fails to help with the issue. There are two different types of inflatable implants.  There is the two piece and the three piece. The two piece implant contains:

  • Two Inflatable rods inside the penis
  • A self-contained fluid reservoir and pump within the scrotum

The Three piece implant is similar, and includes:

  • Two inflatable rods in the penis
  • A pump within the scrotum
  • A fluid reservoir placed within the abdomen

The way that both of these implants works is the same, how each does it is a little different.  Both implants require the patient to squeeze the pump within the scrotum to fill the inflatable rods creating an erection. The three-piece implant creates a harder erection, and the fluid flows from the reservoir into the pump then up into the inflatable rods.  Both implants have a release valve within the scrotum that can be pressed to return the penis to its normal state, draining the fluid back into the reservoir.

The cost for these implants are higher then the semi-rigid rod implants. They also have more parts that can malfunction. However, they do allow for the penis to be deflated where the tissue can be allowed to rest, where as with a semi-rigid rod, the implant never deflates, it simply is folded down to hide the erection when not in use for sex. The risk for infection is higher, especially in certain patients, then with the other implant.  However, the erection can also feel more natural due to the pumping action in inflate and the ability to deflate. The two-piece also makes the scrotum more bulkier then the two-piece would.

When considering a penile implant, make sure to consult your Dr to determine which is the best for you and what risk factors you may need to consider.

Filed Under: Health, Sexual Problem Tagged With: , ,

Erectile Dysfunction: Semi-Rigid Malleable Rod

When medication is not enough to help with erectile dysfunction, then there are additional options available.  One of these options is the Semi-Rigid Malleable Rod Penile Implant. There are some risks involved with the procedure, some of these are:

  • Possible Infection
  • Possible Malfunction of the Implant
  • Possible Damage to the Penile Tissue

Men who are generally healthy have a low rate of infection.  Men that have Diabetes or have had a spinal cord injury are at a higher risk for infection then the average man. If the implant malfunctions, then the rate of infection when replacing it goes up significantly.

The new penile implants are designed to last a lifetime, but in rare circumstances they can fail.  The small internal parts can break down over time. Somethings that your Dr. will look at when considering you for implant surgery are:

  • The cause of dysfunction
  • Risk of the procedure
  • Which implant may be the best for your individual case

Prior to surgery, it is normal to be given antibiotics to help prevent infection.  Your surgeon may even ask you to bath with antibacterial soap for three days before surgery. You will either be given general anesthetic or a spinal block to make sure that you do not feel any pain. Your surgeon is also likely to have a catheter inserted through your urethra into the bladder, which could stay there until about 24 hours after the surgery. Most men do go home within 24 hours of surgery and are able to resume strenuous physical activity within a month afterwards and sexual activity in about four to six weeks.

The Semi-rigid implant is the most affordable implant, it has the least amount of surgery needed and has fewer parts that could malfunction then the other penile implants.

Filed Under: Causes & Cure, Sexual Problem Tagged With: , ,

Considering Cialis for Impotence

As one of the most popular drugs for impotence or erectile dysfunction, Cialis is a consideration for men who are dealing with the condition. It is important for men who have this condition to speak with their doctor to determine if it is a good option. Here is some information and advice to help you through this process.

Cialis works by blocking a chemical that can prevent or slow an erection. The chemical PDE5 can reverse an erection, which is the chemical that Cialis blocks. In as little as 30 minutes and for up to 36 hours, Cialis works in this manner to block the chemical. It also increases blood flow to the penis; as the chemical is blocked, the arteries in the penis open wider.

The medication Cialis is marketed towards men that deal with impotence, or alternatively PAH (pulmonary arterial hypertension). Men with these health issues, or some older men, are commonly marketed towards, as this medication is very effective.

If you think that Cialis may be effective for your condition, it is very important that you consult with your doctor. Your doctor will be able to look at your situation to determine if Cialis is a good option for you. Any other health issues, as well as other applicable factors, can be taken into account in this process. You can also be informed of side effects for Cialis as well.

If Cialis is right for you, consider purchasing Cialis on the Internet. You can buy Cialis online from a reputable website, which will allow you to save a great deal of time and money, potentially. Consider this method to make things easier.

Cialis is a very popular and effective medication for impotence. Call your doctor if you believe that it can help you with your condition. Many men find that it is a simple and effective way to help them with their health issues.

Filed Under: Sexual Problem Tagged With: , ,

Horny Goat Weed, Alternative Erectile Dysfunction Solution?

Used for over 2000 years by traditional Chinese practitioners. The exact way that the Horny Goat Weed works is not known, but it is said to be an aphrodisiac that increases libido in men and women. For men, it also is believed to improve erectile dysfunction.

The plant grows at very high altitudes and has been used to restore sexual fire, alleviate menopausal discomfort, as well as reduce fatigue. In Eastern medicine, they look at the entire individual as they determine what natural medicinal combinations to use.  In Western medicine, generally only the disease is treated. In China, over 100 tons of Horny Goat Weed are sold a year.

The Chinese swear by this herb as the best sex help natural medicine that you can try.  They say that it has so many benefits for both males and females.  It brings back the sexual vitality of youth.  The weed grows all over, and when it is harvested, they take only the leaves, leaving the roots so that more can continue to grow on the plants. No chemicals are applied to the plants, so they are clean and pure.

There has been tests completed on rats where the Horny Goat Weed was injected directly into the rats penis and it did indeed increase the penile blood pressure. Viagra also contains some of the same active ingredients as Horny Goat Weed. Horny Goat Weed also relaxes the smooth muscles in females, allowing more blood flow to the clitoris. It is also believed that it may help balance the levels of cortisol, testosterone, and the thyroid. Of all herbs for menopause, Horny Goat Weed had the highest estrogenic activity.

There has not been any reported interactions with any drugs.  Additionally, there has not been enough research done that it has been declared safe to use for erectile dysfunction or menopausal issues in Wesetern Medicine, however, you can always consider the 2000 year use of the herb by the Chinese as evidence in and of itself.

Filed Under: Health, Sexual Problem Tagged With: , ,

Natural Help for Impotence

If you are impotent and you don’t want to go out and get a prescription for Viagra, here are some natural things that you can do in order to help with curing your impotence.

  • Lower the amount of fat you take in. You shouldn’t take any more than 60 grams a day. it’s a good idea to stay away from the foods that are processed, the fast food, and the desserts.
  • Watch your cholesterol, because this clogs arteries and therefore you’re going to find less blood flowing to the nether region.  Keep away from the foods that are animal products and red meat.
  • Exercising is a good idea. It will make you look and feel good and it’s going to help you with that impotence problem.  Find something that you enjoy doing that is going to help you exercise and make it fun.
  • Eat a breakfast in the mooning and make sure that it’s healthy. You should also check and make sure you’re getting the nutrients, minerals and vitamins that your body needs.
  • Eat a lot of fresh vegetables and fruits. Stay away from the canned stuff, because that has a lot of things in it that you don’t want or need in your body.
  • Take in Vitamin A, because this is something that’s been linked to impotence in certain men.
  • Watch your caffeine, since this is something that’s a stimulant and is known to be causing stress. Watch your chocolate, your coffee, and your soda.
  • Get enough sleep because when you are tired nothing wants to work right. You should have a minimum of 8 hours each night.

These are some of the things that you can do naturally to help with your impotence problem.  When you are doing these things, you’ll find that your sex life is better and that you are enjoying your time with your partner much more.

Filed Under: General, Health Tagged With: , , ,

Erectile Dysfunction Prevention

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure or so the saying goes. It may sound trite but there is something to it. Erectile dysfunction is not something men give a lot of thought to until it actually happens and, sometimes, it is not preventable. However, there are actions to can take before it becomes a problem.

One of the most important steps you can take to prevent erectile dysfunction is to stop smoking cigarettes or not take up if you haven’t yet. Studies have linked tobacco to erectile dysfunction and the more you smoke, the greater the impact. Tobacco accelerates atherosclerosis, which occurs when cholesterol and other fatty material builds up on the walls of arteries, seriously impeding flow of the blood supply. Since a healthy blood flow in essential for erections, the connection is obvious. Of course this is not the only reason to give up smoking as it poses many other serious health risks.

Regular exercise and a healthy diet are essential for optimum sexual performance. Both of these are helpful in improving blood flow throughout the body. Obesity and diabetes are well established as contributors to erectile dysfunction.

Moderate alcohol intake can be beneficial but excessive alcohol intake can lead to trouble getting or maintaining an erection. This is sometimes called “brewer’s droop.” Alcoholism is also known to increase the likelihood of cardiovascular disease, which in turn leads to erectile dysfunction.

Recreational drug use may also play a part in erectile dysfunction. These include marijuana, cocaine, and heroin to name just three. Some may increase desire and lower inhibitions but all have an impact, to a greater or lesser extent, on performance and lower sperm count.

Psychological factors can cause or exacerbate erectile dysfunction. Depression, stress and anxiety can all make getting or maintaining an erection difficult even when there is no medical cause. That is why emotional and mental health should not be ignored.

Filed Under: General, Health Tagged With: , ,
« Older Posts