Erectile Dysfunction: Signs, Causes, and Solutions

Q: Erectile Dysfunction: Signs, Causes, and Solutions

Hello： Low testosterone can lead to various symptoms, and supplementation is one way to address it. <br>However, it's important to pay attention to diet, exercise, and sleep, as long-term supplementation is not feasible. <br>Currently, focusing on lifestyle changes is crucial. <b

Is there an issue with erectile dysfunction?

Hello Dr.
Du,
Recently, while watching adult films for DIY purposes, I've noticed that when I see scenes that excite me, my erection gradually becomes firm.
However, when I switch to other scenes (possibly during foreplay) or change to different videos, my penis tends to soften.
It only starts to become erect again when I find a scene that I like and that excites me.
I can achieve ejaculation when I am fully aroused during DIY.
However, if I ejaculate today, I do not experience morning erections the next day.
I've also noticed a decrease in the frequency of morning erections recently; it's not completely absent, but I might have them three to four times a week.
If I DIY on a given day, I won't have a morning erection the following day.
This has caused me some concern, so I went to a urologist and had blood tests done.
Currently, my testosterone levels are low, and I am using medication (a topical application, one packet per day).
I'm wondering if this indicates the onset of erectile dysfunction.
Are there any specific things I should be aware of?
I am currently 27 years old, do not smoke or drink (I only drank occasionally during work-related events in the past, and never excessively), and I hardly exercise.
My sleep schedule is typically between 12:30 and 1:00 AM.
Recently, I've started to control my diet; previously, I ate out for almost every meal.
My DIY frequency used to be nearly once a day.
My recent health check reports have all been related to obesity, such as high uric acid (due to poor diet) and high cholesterol.
Thank you, Doctor!

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/06/15

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: Low testosterone can lead to various symptoms, and supplementation is one way to address it.
However, it's important to pay attention to diet, exercise, and sleep, as long-term supplementation is not feasible.
Currently, focusing on lifestyle changes is crucial.
If testosterone levels remain low for an extended period, it can result in sexual function issues.
It's important to note that the age group experiencing these problems is decreasing due to unhealthy lifestyles.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/06/15

More Info

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a condition that affects many men at various stages of life, and understanding its signs, causes, and potential solutions is crucial for maintaining sexual health and overall well-being. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing some symptoms that could be associated with ED, and it's important to address these concerns.

Signs of Erectile Dysfunction
1. Difficulty Achieving or Maintaining an Erection: As you mentioned, you can achieve an erection when viewing certain stimuli, but it becomes difficult when switching to other types of content. This fluctuation can indicate that while you still have the ability to become aroused, there may be underlying issues affecting your ability to maintain that arousal.

2. Reduced Morning Erections: The decrease in the frequency of morning erections (nocturnal penile tumescence) can be a significant indicator of erectile function. While it’s normal for these occurrences to vary, a noticeable decrease, especially if correlated with other symptoms, can be a sign of potential erectile dysfunction.

3. Psychological Factors: Anxiety, stress, or performance pressure can also contribute to erectile issues. If you find that your ability to maintain an erection is influenced by the type of content you are viewing, it may suggest a psychological component to your experience.

Causes of Erectile Dysfunction
1. Hormonal Imbalances: You mentioned that your testosterone levels are low. Testosterone plays a vital role in sexual arousal and function. Low levels can lead to decreased libido and erectile difficulties. It’s good that you are addressing this with medication, but it’s essential to work closely with your healthcare provider to monitor your hormone levels and adjust treatment as necessary.

2. Lifestyle Factors: Your current lifestyle choices, including lack of exercise, poor diet, and irregular sleep patterns, can significantly impact erectile function. Obesity, high cholesterol, and elevated uric acid levels can contribute to vascular issues, which are critical for achieving and maintaining an erection.

3. Psychological Factors: Stress, anxiety, and depression can all play a role in erectile dysfunction. If you are experiencing stress related to your health or personal life, it may be beneficial to explore stress-reduction techniques or speak with a mental health professional.

Solutions and Recommendations
1. Consult a Healthcare Provider: Since you have already consulted a urologist and had blood tests, continue to follow up with them regarding your testosterone treatment and any other underlying health issues. They may recommend further testing or adjustments to your current treatment plan.

2. Lifestyle Modifications: Incorporating regular physical activity into your routine can help improve overall health and potentially enhance erectile function. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise each week. Additionally, focusing on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help manage weight and improve cardiovascular health.

3. Sleep Hygiene: Establishing a regular sleep schedule and ensuring you get adequate rest can improve hormonal balance and overall health. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night.

4. Psychological Support: If you suspect that anxiety or stress is contributing to your erectile dysfunction, consider speaking with a therapist or counselor. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be particularly effective in addressing performance anxiety and other psychological factors.

5. Medication: If lifestyle changes and hormone therapy do not resolve your symptoms, your healthcare provider may discuss other treatment options, such as phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (e.g., Viagra, Cialis), which can help improve erectile function.

In conclusion, while it’s understandable to be concerned about the symptoms you are experiencing, it’s essential to approach this issue holistically. Addressing hormonal imbalances, making lifestyle changes, and seeking psychological support can all contribute to improving erectile function. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment options tailored to your specific situation.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Erectile Dysfunction: Causes and Solutions for Men

Hello Doctor: Thank you for your response. I do not have any bad habits such as smoking, drinking, or betel nut chewing. I do not engage in exercise, but I remember that during periods of inactivity in the past, my condition was still good. I would like to provide additional info...

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Xiao Hua: Hello, it should not have any impact. Of course, psychological factors could also be a possibility. For now, let's just observe for a while. If there is no improvement, it is still recommended to seek further detailed treatment (Note: usually only medical centers h...

Understanding Erectile Dysfunction: Causes and Solutions for Young Men

Hello, doctor. Although I am only 26 years old, I have been experiencing erectile dysfunction for many years. During middle school, my erections were consistently strong and normal. However, starting from a certain day in high school, I noticed that my penis appeared significantl...

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Mr. Li: Hello, it is recommended to undergo a thorough examination, such as a penile erection test and a penile blood flow test. If there are any unclear aspects, feel free to ask again so we can further discuss and research. Online responses can only serve as a reference; if nec...

Understanding and Treating Incomplete Erections: A Guide for Better Sexual Health

It sounds like you are experiencing erectile dysfunction and difficulties with sexual performance. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including psychological issues, stress, anxiety, or physical health conditions. Here are some steps you can consider for treatment: 1. *...

Dr. Lin Hexing reply Urology
Hello, based on your description, it seems you are experiencing erectile dysfunction. Since you are not yet married and are still in school without a stable income, it may be too early to seek out pleasurable sexual experiences at your age. Focusing on improving your physical fit...

Understanding Erectile Dysfunction: Causes and Solutions for Improved Performance

Experiencing insufficient rigidity during erections, occasional loss of erection upon stopping stimulation, and the ability to ejaculate while not fully erect are concerning symptoms. These issues were not prevalent in the past, as you previously had normal rigidity and duration ...

Dr. Xu Wencang reply Urology
Masturbating too frequently can lead to decreased sensitivity of the nerves and impaired erectile function. It is advisable to stop masturbating for a period of time to see if there is any improvement. Given your age, there should not be any organ issues. If you have a regular pa...