Holistic Health Pillars

What is Holistic Health? Holistic health practitioners work with clients to achieve specific health goals. This may include improving athletic performance, disease prevention, and the treatment of symptoms. Holistic nutritionists may help implement anti-inflammatory diets. Holistic health practitioners work with both medical professionals and the public to implement a personalized plan of action. Holistic health…

What is Holistic Health? Holistic health practitioners work with clients to achieve specific health goals. This may include improving athletic performance, disease prevention, and the treatment of symptoms. Holistic nutritionists may help implement anti-inflammatory diets. Holistic health practitioners work with both medical professionals and the public to implement a personalized plan of action. Holistic health practitioners are available in many locations, and many practices are affiliated with local hospitals and clinics.

Eight pillars that support holistic health

A balanced diet is a key component of the physical wellness pillar. In addition to eating more fruits and vegetables, you should also be eating a variety of whole grains. Avoid foods with high amounts of sodium, cholesterol, or added sugar. Likewise, you should avoid fried foods. These foods can contribute to high cholesterol levels, which can have negative effects on your overall health. A healthy diet can improve many of the other pillars.

The physical and emotional aspects of health go hand in hand. Holistic health acknowledges the role of mental, spiritual, and social aspects of health. As a result, it takes the whole person into account, focusing on the connections between the body, mind, and environment. Emotional wellness is an important component of holistic health, and it can be cultivated through the eight pillars of holistic health. Listed below are the eight pillars of holistic health.

Physical health: Exercise, diet, sleep habits, hygiene, and personal hygiene are important aspects of physical health. Physical health requires adequate exercise, good rest, and a clean environment. Physical health is just the tip of the iceberg, though. It also requires that you understand your body’s chemistry and how to balance it. Nutrition is an essential part of physical health, and it gets its own pillar. Taking care of your body’s chemistry is important when making dietary and lifestyle decisions.

Cost control

There are two methods of cost control in holistic health care. One is to measure the cost of an entire system and implement changes in management based on results. Cost control in holistic health care is often difficult to achieve because costs vary according to the type of treatment provided. The other method is to identify the cost of an individual patient, and to measure the proportion of that patient who will need further care. Although holistic health care is more expensive than usual medical care, it is cost effective and can reduce mortality.

The first strategy is a health share plan, which requires the members to pay a portion of the cost of their care. These plans are more expensive than traditional medical care, but are often more effective because they treat the whole person and encourage preventative care. This approach also keeps costs low and satisfaction high, leaving more money for major medical events. The most common holistic health care costs are due to chronic illnesses and other conditions. The costs of a health share plan are shared by all members.

Another strategy for cost control in holistic health care is to use health policy commissions. The Maryland commission, for example, has been focusing on the total cost of care and hospital budgets. It has a history, and stakeholders have a vested interest in working with it. In Maryland, a Medicare waiver encourages health care providers to offer services to all payers, such as Medicare and Medicaid. These charges are then offset by increases in commercial rates.

Prevention of disease

The American Holistic Health Association advocates for the prevention of chronic disease. The emphasis on holistic health entails treating the entire person, incorporating the mind, body, and spirit into a health-promoting lifestyle. The most difficult aspects of incorporating holistic practices into the client’s life are often changes to food, which can be hard for clients to accept. However, the benefits of holistic health far outweigh the negative effects.

One of the most significant benefits of preventive medicine is lower healthcare costs. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that the practice of prevention can reduce costs by more than $1 trillion annually. In fact, 90 percent of healthcare expenditures are related to chronic conditions. Preventive care focuses on the prevention of chronic disease by emphasizing long-term health, healthy pregnancy, and aging. Health screenings are an important component of this holistic approach.

The benefits of holistic medicine are numerous. First, holistic doctors focus on the whole person, rather than simply treating the symptoms of an illness. Holistic physicians believe that the mind-body connection is the key to healing. As such, holistic doctors help patients develop an understanding of their entire health profile. By integrating complementary therapies and Western medicine, holistic physicians can treat the whole person and prevent or improve disease symptoms. In addition to reducing disease risk, holistic health also emphasizes a strong doctor-patient relationship.

Medicinal plants

Medicinal plants can be used to treat various illnesses and diseases. Using them can be a natural way to improve your overall health and well-being. Here are some tips for maximizing their benefits. Read on to learn how to use medicinal plants in your daily life. We are going to go over a few examples of the most popular ones and how they can improve your health. Listed below are some of their most important benefits.

Traditional medicines have their place, but plants play a vital role in drug development. Modern scientific techniques have helped verify the ancient knowledge of the healer. These traditional remedies incorporate many aspects of the body, including their chemical composition and their psychological effects. As a result, the study of traditional medicine is helping to discover future drug leads. Medicinal plants are used in many countries and have played a vital role in traditional healthcare systems for thousands of years. Today, about 50% of all drugs that are used in clinical practice are made from natural products.

Besides examining their properties, medicinal plants can also be used for cancer treatment. The research study documented the different plant species used in cancer management among Tswana speakers. The study also provided baseline data for further studies. Future studies will focus on the phytochemical and pharmacological profiles of these plants. The findings of this study have opened the door to further investigation into the effects of these plants on the human body. It also highlights the growing popularity of natural products.

Dietary supplements

The goal of dietary supplements for holistic health is to help people improve their health and well-being by addressing the root causes of the disease. Researchers and practitioners of holistic nutrition know that the body’s chemical processes are continuously occurring. They are affected by synthetic chemicals, which disrupt these processes. They also know that abnormal substances can interfere with decision-making and brain functions. Consequently, these substances may cause long-term damage. Instead of taking synthetic chemicals, holistic nutritionists recommend natural foods and herbal supplements.

A good source for dietary supplements is the Office of Dietary Supplements. This organization helps consumers find information on dietary supplements and answers questions about their efficacy. You can also contact the manufacturers to find out more about the supplement’s ingredients and efficacy. In addition, you can visit the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) or Office of Dietary Supplements, which have websites designed to help consumers make informed choices.

Some people have tried using dietary supplements for holistic health. However, their use is not recommended for everyone. These supplements are not meant to diagnose or treat diseases and are not as safe as medicines. However, they are effective in enhancing the current routine of a person. They are not a replacement for good eating habits. A healthy diet and exercise are important factors for holistic health. And you should not neglect your diet and your health if you want to see significant results from dietary supplements.

Alternative medicine

Holistic health is all about using the correct methods to achieve optimal health. Alternative medicine attempts to achieve the same effects as medicine, but is not scientifically proven. It has no biological plausibility and has been proven ineffective. Nonetheless, many people swear by it and use it for a wide variety of conditions. Below are some common examples of complementary and alternative medicine. Read on to learn more about the benefits and limitations of alternative medicine.

A holistic philosophy views the mind, body, and spirit as one. A dysfunction in one area affects the whole person. Complementary medicine is guided by this philosophy. Many Australians seek out alternative medicine after feeling dissatisfied with conventional medical care. They don’t believe in the harsh side effects of conventional drugs. It may be more gentle and safer. In addition, it involves a collaborative approach with both the patient and provider.

The holistic health care provider may prescribe medicines and surgical procedures to treat acute or chronic pain, or recommend exercise to boost the production of endorphins. Regardless of the condition, a holistic health care provider may also ask about your diet and lifestyle, identifying foods that contribute to inflammation and stress. If you suffer from pain, your holistic health care provider may recommend acupuncture or massage therapy, or even mindful meditation to relieve tension and stress.

Vantas for Prostate Cancer Symptoms: Side Effects & Warnings


Generic drug: histrelin acetate

Brand name: Vantas

What is Vantas (histrelin acetate), and how does it work?

Vantas (histrelin acetate) is a drug-delivery system that contains the medicine histrelin and is placed under the skin. It looks like a small, thin flexible tube. After it is placed under the skin, Vantas delivers histrelin to your body continuously for 12 months. Vantas may help relieve the symptoms of prostate cancer. Vantas is not a cure for prostate cancer.

What are the side effects of Vantas?

Vantas can cause an increase in testosterone during the first week after it is inserted. Your symptoms may get worse during the first few weeks of treatment. You may get new symptoms. Call your doctor right away if you:

  • get new or worse bone pain
  • get weakness or lose feeling in your legs
  • have blood in your urine
  • have trouble urinating or cannot urinate


Vantas can cause a loss in bone mineral density.
Low bone mineral density can lead to thinning of the bones (oesteoporosis).

The most common side effects of Vantas are:

You may have some pain at the insertion site during and after
Vantas is inserted and removed. You may get some bruising and redness at the site. These usually go away without treatment within 2 weeks. Call your doctor if you have unusual bleeding, redness or pain at the insertion site.

These are not all the side effects of
Vantas. For more information, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

What is the dosage for Vantas?

Recommended Dose

  • The recommended dose of Vantas is one implant for 12 months.
  • Each implant contains 50 mg histrelin acetate to deliver 41 mg histrelin.
  • The implant is inserted subcutaneously in the inner aspect of the upper arm and provides continuous release of histrelin (50 mcg/day) for 12 months of hormonal therapy.
  • Vantas should be removed after 12 months of therapy (the implant has been designed to allow for a few additional weeks of histrelin release, in order to allow flexibility of medical appointments).
  • At the time an implant is removed, another implant may be inserted to continue therapy.

What drugs interact with Vantas?

Overview

  • No pharmacokinetic-based drug-drug interaction studies were conducted
    with Vantas.

Drug-Laboratory Test Interactions

  • Therapy with histrelin results in suppression of the pituitary-gonadal system.
  • Results of diagnostic tests of pituitary gonadotropic and gonadal functions conducted during and after histrelin therapy may be affected.

Is Vantas safe to use while pregnant or breastfeeding?

  • Vantas is contraindicated in females who are or may become pregnant.
  • Vantas can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. The possibility exists that spontaneous abortion may occur.
  • Vantas is not indicated for use in women.
  • It is not known whether this drug is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk and because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants from
    Vantas, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.

How Can a Man Tell if He Has a Hormonal Imbalance?

What is a hormonal imbalance in men?

A hormonal imbalance can affect a number of bodily functions, including metabolism, heart rate, sleep cycles, reproductive cycles, sexual function, growth and development, mood, and body temperature.A hormonal imbalance can affect a number of bodily functions, including metabolism, heart rate, sleep cycles, reproductive cycles, sexual function, growth and development, mood, and body temperature.

Hormonal imbalances occur when there is too much or too little of a hormone present in the body. Hormones, which are chemicals produced by glands in the endocrine system, play an essential role in the body. These chemicals travel through the bloodstream to deliver messages to tissues and organs. They regulate major body processes like metabolism and reproduction.

A hormonal imbalance can affect a number of bodily functions, including:

  • Metabolism
  • Heart rate
  • Sleep cycles
  • Reproductive cycles
  • Sexual function
  • Growth and development
  • Mood
  • Body temperature

Hormone levels may fluctuate over time, but symptoms of a hormone imbalance can also occur due to stress, injury, illness, poor nutrition, or a lack of exercise. This can occur at any time, but it’s more likely to occur as a person grows older.

Both men and women can experience imbalances in hormones such as growth hormones, insulin, and adrenaline. Men are more likely to experience hormonal imbalances in testosterone levels.

A drop in testosterone is also known as hypogonadism, or “male menopause.” Low testosterone can result in decreased strength, energy, stamina, and sexual function. Studies have found that low testosterone in men may increase their risk of developing coronary artery disease, metabolic syndrome, and type 2 diabetes.

Signs of hormonal imbalance in men

As hormones play a crucial role in many bodily functions, there is a broad range of symptoms that could indicate a hormonal imbalance in men. These signs can vary depending on the hormones or glands that are affected. The following are signs of hormonal imbalances in men:

Gynecomastia

Gynecomastia, or enlargement of the breast tissue, is a sign of hormonal imbalance in men. While breast tissue may become larger due to age, diet, or lifestyle, a decrease in testosterone or an increase in estrogen can also lead to its growth.

It may not be physically harmful, but gynecomastia can have an impact on self-esteem. It may also be a sign that a hormonal imbalance may be affecting other functions as well.

Loss of libido

Another sign of low testosterone or high estrogen levels is a loss of libido, or sex drive. While these changes in libido can have many root causes, a hormonal imbalance could be a factor. A low sex drive can be a psychological challenge and can strain intimate relationships.

Erectile dysfunction

Hormonal imbalances can also interfere with sexual performance. This can lead to erectile dysfunction (ED), or difficulty having or maintaining an erection for sexual activity. Erectile dysfunction can be influenced by factors like age, depression, heart disease, stress, chronic illness, and insomnia.

Some medications, like opiates and those that treat hypertension (high blood pressure), can also lead to erectile dysfunction. ED can also be a sign of low testosterone.

Loss of muscle

While lifestyle changes can often account for losing muscle or gaining weight, changes in body composition can also be a result of a hormonal imbalance. Testosterone is responsible for building and maintaining muscle mass. If testosterone levels drop, you may notice muscle atrophy (a loss of mass) or weight gain.

Other hormones are also associated with weight changes. High levels of cortisol, your “fight-or-flight” hormone, can interfere with metabolism and suppress your body’s natural production of testosterone, leading to muscle loss. Thyroid disorders like hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) can also lower your metabolism and lead to weight gain.

Mood changes

In addition to physical symptoms, another sign of hormonal imbalance is a change in mood. Low testosterone levels may lead to decreased motivation, mood swings, irritability, anxiety, and depression. Thyroid disorders can also lead to mood changes.

Causes of hormonal imbalance

Everyone experiences a natural fluctuation or imbalance in hormones over time. However, it can also be a result of the endocrine glands malfunctioning. The endocrine system is responsible for producing, storing, and releasing hormones into the bloodstream.

Other causes of hormonal imbalance can include:

Diagnosing hormonal imbalance

There is a wide range of tests available for doctors to diagnose a hormonal imbalance, including:

You can also use an at-home test kit. These kits use saliva, blood, or urine to measure cortisol levels, thyroid hormones, and sex hormones. These kits can give you an indication of whether there may be a hormonal imbalance, but a consultation with your doctor may provide more conclusive results.

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Treatments for hormonal imbalance

Treatments for hormonal imbalance in men will depend on what kind of imbalance might be at the root of your symptoms. Possible treatments can include:

Testosterone therapy

Testosterone therapy includes taking supplements that can reduce the symptoms of low testosterone. It’s available in different forms, including injections, gel, and a patch.

Testosterone replacement therapy has shown to have beneficial effects for older men, including increasing bone strength and density, boosting libido and sexual function, and increasing muscle strength.

However, testosterone therapy should be avoided by men with prostate cancer or breast cancer. It may also put certain men at a higher risk of kidney, liver, or heart complications.

Thyroid hormone therapy

If you have hypothyroidism, thyroid hormone therapy can help balance the hormone levels. The synthetic thyroid hormone levothyroxine, which can be taken orally or be injected, can help regulate the thyroid gland.

Orgovyx: Prostate Cancer Treatment Side Effects & Interactions


Generic drug: relugolix

Brand name: Orgovyx

What is Orgovyx (relugolix), and how does it work?

Orgovyx (relugolix) is a prescription medicine used in adults for the treatment of advanced prostate cancer.

It is not known if Orgovyx is safe or effective in females.
It is not known if Orgovyx is safe or effective in children.

What are the side effects of Orgovyx?

Orgovyx may cause serious side effects, including:

  • Changes in the electrical activity of your heart (QT prolongation). Your healthcare provider may check your body salts (electrolytes) and the electrical activity of your heart during treatment with Orgovyx. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get any signs or symptoms of QT prolongation, including:

The most common side effects of Orgovyx include:

Other side effects include weight gain, decreased sex drive, and erectile function problems.

Orgovyx may cause fertility problems in males, which may affect your ability to father children. Talk to your healthcare provider if this is a concern for you.

These are not all the possible side effects of Orgovyx.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the dosage for Orgovyx?

Recommended Dosage

  • Initiate treatment of Orgovyx with a loading dose of 360 mg on the first day and continue treatment with a 120 mg dose taken orally once daily at approximately the same time each day.
  • Orgovyx can be taken with or without food. Instruct patients to swallow tablets whole and not to crush or chew tablets.
  • Advise patients to take a missed dose of Orgovyx as soon as they remember. If the dose was missed by more than 12 hours, patients should not take the missed dose and resume with the next scheduled dose.
  • If treatment with Orgovyx is interrupted for greater than 7 days, restart
    Orgovyx with a loading dose of 360 mg on the first day, and continue with a dose of 120 mg once daily.
  • In patients treated with GnRH receptor agonists and antagonists for prostate cancer, treatment is usually continued upon development of nonmetastatic or metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer.

Dose Modification For Use With P-gp Inhibitors

  • Avoid co-administration of Orgovyx with oral P-gp inhibitors.
  • If co-administration is unavoidable, take Orgovyx first and separate
    dosing by at least 6 hours.
  • Treatment with Orgovyx may be interrupted for up to two weeks if a short course of treatment with a P-gp inhibitor is required.

Dose Modification For Use With Combined P-gp And Strong CYP3A Inducers

  • Avoid co-administration of Orgovyx with combined P-gp and strong CYP3A
    inducers.
  • If co-administration is unavoidable, increase the Orgovyx dose to 240 mg
    once daily. After discontinuation of the combined P-gp and strong CYP3A
    inducer, resume the recommended Orgovyx dose of 120 mg once daily.

What drugs interact with Orgovyx?

Effect Of Other Drugs On Orgovyx

P-gp Inhibitors
  • Co-administration of Orgovyx with a P-gp inhibitor increases the AUC and
    the maximum concentration (Cmax) of relugolix, which may increase the risk of adverse reactions associated with
    Orgovyx. Avoid co-administration of Orgovyx with oral P-gp inhibitors.
  • If co-administration is unavoidable, take Orgovyx first, separate dosing
    by at least 6 hours, and monitor patients more frequently for adverse
    reactions.
  • Treatment with Orgovyx may be interrupted for up to 2 weeks for a short course of treatment with certain P-gp inhibitors.
  • If treatment with Orgovyx is interrupted for more than 7 days, resume administration of
    Orgovyx with a 360 mg loading dose on the first day, followed by 120 mg once daily.
Combined P-gp And Strong CYP3A Inducers
  • Co-administration of Orgovyx with a combined P-gp and a strong CYP3A
    inducer decreases the AUC and Cmax of relugolix, which may reduce the effects of
    Orgovyx. Avoid co-administration of Orgovyx with combined P-gp and strong CYP3A inducers.
  • If co-administration is unavoidable, increase the Orgovyx dose. After discontinuation of the combined P-gp and strong CYP3A inducer, resume the recommended dose of
    Orgovyx once daily.

Is Orgovyx safe to use while pregnant or breastfeeding?

  • The safety and efficacy of Orgovyx have not been established in females.
  • Based on findings in animals and mechanism of action, Orgovyx can cause fetal harm and loss of pregnancy when administered to a pregnant female.
  • There are no human data on the use of Orgovyx in pregnant females to inform the drug-associated risk.
  • The safety and efficacy of Orgovyx at the recommended dose of 120 mg daily have not been established in females.
  • There are no data on the presence of relugolix in human milk, the effects on the breastfed child, or the effects on milk production.

Men’s Health: Tips for Managing Stress, Weight Management & Healthy Eating

Introduction to men's health

An enlarged prostate gland is a common problem that men face as they get older.

An enlarged prostate gland is a common problem that men face as they get older.

The average life expectancy of a man born in the United States in 2016 is 79 years and 8 months. The life expectancy for a man has increased dramatically in the past 50 years. How long we live is important; however, the quality of life is equally important. The ability to enjoy life to its fullest requires investing time and effort into health maintenance and disease prevention. This investment pays dividends almost immediately and it is never too late to begin. A man who was 65 years old in 2018 could expect to live to age 84, and a 75-year-old could expect 11 more years of life.

Our bodies are incredibly complex machines that require fuel components (food, water, and air) to grow, function, and repair itself. Like any machine, the body requires routine maintenance to make it last a long time and to function well throughout a person's life expectancy. Using the body as it was intended and minimizing abuse also increases its ability to perform. When we buy a car, we expect to routinely change the oil, filters, rotate the tires, and avoid driving too aggressively to keep the car running smoothly and last a certain length of time. As in life, accidents happen and cosmetic injuries occur, but it is the "guts" of a car, the engine, transmission, and brakes that will decide if it will be happily driving down the road or sitting in the junkyard.

Our bodies suffer through illnesses and accidents and many are unavoidable. Taking care of your body also includes scheduled maintenance and screening examinations to detect illnesses at an early stage, which increases the potential for cure and a return to health. Learning to listen to the body's warning signs and symptoms is the same as paying attention to the check engine light in your car, neither should be ignored.

A healthy lifestyle is not just an absence of disease, but an opportunity to enjoy the years of life available to each person. Medical care can help the body maintain its performance as it ages. A longer life expectancy should not be considered a jail sentence to inactivity. As the body ages, there is an expected and normal physiologic change in some of the hormones in the male body.

Diminished interest in sex can be a direct result of stress.

Does Stress Lower Your Sex Drive?

Viewer Question: I’ve been under a prolonged period of stress, which seems to have diminished my sex drive. I recently read that stress can affect hormone levels. What can I do to counteract stress and improve my sex drive?

Doctor’s Response: You are not alone in your concern. A diminished interest in sex is one of many symptoms that can develop as a result of increased psychological stress, and studies show that a decreased sex drive is a common complaint in people who have stressful jobs and work long hours. Fortunately, taking steps to manage your stress can help you regain some of your lost sexual energy.

Stress management is a highly individual practice, and each person must choose the stress control techniques that work best for them. However, stress control methods most often include a combination of exercise, relaxation techniques (deep breathing or meditation exercises), adhering to a regular sleep cycle, and proper nutrition. Exercise releases endorphins, which are the body’s natural stress-fighting hormones, so any type of physical exercise is a good stress control measure…

Read more information about stress and your sex drive »

Prostate problems

The prostate is a unique male organ. It is located beneath the bladder and connects it to the penis. Its function is to produce part of the seminal fluid that is alkaline, which helps lengthen the life span of semen when it enters the vagina. The prostate also has involuntary muscles that contract to help expel semen during ejaculation.

A common condition in men that is part of the normal aging process is benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH or enlarged prostate). The urethra is a tube that passes through the prostate and drains the bladder. A man with an enlarged prostate (BPH) often has difficulty emptying the bladder because the urethra is being compressed by prostatic tissue. This compression of the urethra makes it difficult for the bladder to generate enough pressure to overcome the obstruction (enlarged prostate). Over time, the bladder itself begins to weaken making urination even more difficult.

Symptoms of BPH include:

  • Urinary frequency (urinating more often)
  • Urinary urgency (the feeling that he has to empty the bladder urgently or risk wetting himself)
  • Urinary hesitancy (difficulty starting the urine stream)
  • Urinary straining (requiring more pressure or bearing down to empty the bladder)
  • Poor urine stream and dribbling

Treatment of BPH (which may include medications or surgery) depends upon the man, any underlying medical conditions, and the severity of symptoms.

Testosterone

Sexual health and function are important parts of a healthy lifestyle. The ability to participate in sexual intercourse depends upon the brain, hormones, nerves, and blood vessels that supply the penis. A variety of mechanisms and feedback loops need to work for an erection to occur. There are numerous causes of erectile dysfunction (ED, impotence) including:

Impotence is also a complication of prostate cancer treatment, which can include surgery and radiation.

Smoking is an independent risk factor for developing impotence.

Treatment of erectile dysfunction depends upon the cause but may include medications (for example, tadalafil [Cialis], sildenafil [Viagra], and vardenafil [Levitra, Staxyn], testosterone replacement therapy and, for some men, prosthetic devices surgically inserted into the penis.

Testosterone levels that are required for puberty, muscle, and bone development in young adulthood gradually decrease over a man's lifetime (sometimes referred to as Low T). Testosterone levels need to be at a certain level to maintain body and brain function. Numerous theories exist about the use of testosterone therapy routinely in older men, but these theories have not been widely accepted. There are however, a few health care practitioners that use testosterone to "prevent aging."

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Top 10 diseases that kill men

"Know your enemy and know yourself and you can fight a hundred battles
without disaster."

Sun Tzu. Chinese General. 500BC

Most of the common diseases that affect men are potentially preventable, but one needs to know their enemy. Interestingly, the presence of some diseases increases the likelihood that another will occur. Heart disease, stroke, peripheral vascular disease, and dementia all share the same risk factors:

The following are the top disease that kill me, according to the Centers for Disease Control.

1. Heart disease

Heart disease is the number one killer of men in the United States.

The heart is like any other muscle, requiring blood to supply oxygen and nutrients for it to function. The heart’s needs are provided by the coronary arteries, which begin at the base of the aorta and spread across the surface of the heart, branching out to all areas of the heart muscle.

Angina

The coronary arteries are at risk for narrowing as cholesterol deposits, called plaques, build up inside the artery. If the arteries narrow enough, blood supply to the heart muscle may be compromised (slowed down), and this slowing of blood flow to the heart causes pain, or angina.

Angina symptoms include:

This heart pain is often referred to as "anginal equivalent."

Heart attack

A heart attack (myocardial infarction) occurs when a plaque ruptures, allowing a blood clot to form, which can be life-threatening. The blood clot completely obstructs the artery, stopping blood flow to part of the heart muscle, and that portion of muscle dies.

Abnormal heart rhythms and sudden cardiac arrest

The heart is an electrical pump composed of heart muscle and cells that produce and conduct electrical signals. Heart muscle cells can become irritable because they have lost blood supply and may, in addition, cause electrical abnormalities or short circuits that prevent the heart muscle from pumping which can result in sudden cardiac death.

Heart disease risk factors

The major risk factors for heart disease (and stroke and peripheral vascular disease) include smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and family history. While one cannot control their family history, the other factors can be controlled and the risks minimized. These are life-long obligations to decrease the risk of heart disease.

2. Cancers

Lung cancer is the number one killer among cancers in men, and most are preventable. Smoking causes 90% of all lung cancers and while the number of smokers in the United States has decreased in the past generation, 13% of young adults age 18-24 smoke and will be the future victims of lung cancer. It is harder to stop smoking than it is to stop many other addictions; nicotine in tobacco is a very addictive drug. Tobacco in its various forms including smokeless or chewing tobacco is related to a variety of other cancers including cancer of the mouth, throat, and larynx.

Prostate cancer affects the prostate gland. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men, and is a disease of aging and is rarely seen in men younger than 50 years of age. Often prostate cancer causes no symptoms and is diagnosed with routine screening tests including a rectal examination to feel the prostate and a PSA (prostate specific antigen) blood test. The cure rate for prostate cancer has increased since the widespread use of PSA testing began but it still accounts for 19% of cancer deaths among men. Currently, prostate cancer screening with a digital rectal exam and PSA testing are only indicated in high-risk patients or those with symptoms.

Colon and rectal cancers tie with prostate cancer as the second most common cause of cancer deaths in men. There are few symptoms in the early stages of colon and rectal cancers, thus the diagnosis is often made by routinely screening the stool for occult blood (blood that is not visible to the naked eye but can be found by testing the stool sample) and undergoing a routine screening colonoscopy. Colon cancer can be nearly completely preventable with timely colonoscopy screenings.

Testicular cancer accounts for 5.6 per 100,000 men in the U.S., but usually occurs in younger men (ages 15 to 39). Men can help detect this disease by doing a testicular exam routinely and reporting any testicle abnormalities or symptoms (lumps, swelling, pain) to their health care practitioner.

Living a healthy lifestyle decreases the potential risk of developing cancer. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and avoiding toxins in the environment (including smoking and secondhand smoke) are positive lifestyle changes that the average person can control during their lifetime.

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3. Injuries

Accidents happen and the key to minimizing the risk of death is to use common sense and avoid potentially dangerous situations.

  • Simple actions like wearing a seatbelt while in a car, wearing a helmet when cycling, skiing, skateboarding, or other activities
    where head injuries occur help decrease risk of death in an accident.
  • Driving while impaired on drugs or alcohol is never acceptable and causes a dangerous situation not only for the driver but for those around him. Impairment driving includes not only alcohol but also medications that can cause sedation, including over-the-counter cold and sleep medications. It also includes driving when tired or sleepy. Many authorities on impaired drivers consider texting and cell phone use impaired driving.
  • Most accidents happen around the house and routine prevention can help decrease those accidents. Easy fixes include making sure that floors aren’t slippery or wet, stair railings are secure, and walks and driveways are well maintained and well lit at night. Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors can only work if their batteries are fresh.

4. Stroke (cerebrovascular accident, CVA)

A stroke (cerebrovascular accident [CVA]), occurs when blood supply to part of the brain is disrupted, causing brain cells to die. Blood flow can be compromised by a variety of mechanisms. This can occur because blood supply has been cut off (ischemia) or because there has been bleeding in the brain (hemorrhage). Ischemic strokes occur due to a variety of reasons including the gradual narrowing of a blood vessel in the brain, debris that can break off from the carotid artery in the neck, or from a blood clot that embolizes (or travels) from the heart.

The risk factors for stroke are the same as for heart disease: smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and family history.

A TIA (transient ischemic attack, mini-stroke) is a stroke that improves, usually quickly. A person develops stroke like symptoms (weakness of one side of the body or face, vision loss, speech difficulty) but it resolves spontaneously within a few minutes or hours. This situation should never be ignored since it is a major warning sign that an impending stroke may occur.

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5. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are the two types of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and both are most commonly caused by smoking. Due to the toxins in smoke, the lung tissue is damaged and loses its ability to transfer oxygen from the inhaled air into the blood stream. Symptoms of COPD include shortness of breath and wheezing. COPD increases the risk of lung infection including pneumonia.

6. Diabetes

The pancreas makes insulin to help cells use glucose for energy. Diabetes describes the situation where insulin function in the body is abnormal.

  • Type 1 diabetes usually occurs in people younger than 40 where the body's immune system destroys the insulin producing cells in the pancreas.
  • Ninety to 95% of people with diabetes have type 2 diabetes.

Poorly controlled diabetes increases blood sugar levels in the bloodstream and in the long-term, affects the small blood vessels in the body, which can lead to multi-organ failure. Poorly controlled diabetes can cause vascular disease leading to heart attacks, strokes, limb amputations, kidney failure, blindness, and nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy).

Diabetes prevention and control include eating a well-balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and routinely exercising, and keeping active.

7. Influenza and pneumonia

A healthy lifestyle and healthy body makes for a strong immune system that can fight common infections like influenza (flu). It is important to follow public health recommendations for routine immunizations to reduce the risk of contracting the flu, and its complications such as pneumonia. However, pneumonia is not limited to just viral causes. Bacterial pneumonia is ranked with influenza as one of the major causes of death in men by many researchers. Fortunately,
a pneumococcal vaccine has proven effective in preventing one of the most common bacterial causes of pneumonia, Streptococcus pneumoniae.

8. Suicide

Mens sana in copore sano: a healthy mind in a healthy body

Thoughts of self-harm are not normal. They should not be ignored by a man, family, or friends, and should be considered an emergency situation. Depression can become overwhelming and potentially life-threatening. Men with depression may be able to function reasonably well on a day to day basis and may be reluctant to seek help. It may take a crisis situation to finally get a man to agree to get medical, psychological, and counseling assistance.

Symptoms of depression may be subtle and arise slowly. They can include:

  • difficulty concentrating or completing projects
  • lack of energy
  • difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
  • change in appetite (some people stop eating while others overeat)
  • feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness
  • excessive sadness or feelings of emptiness
  • thoughts of suicide or self-harm

9. Kidney disease

The kidneys filter impurities from the blood and dispose of them in the urine. They are also important in maintaining electrolyte balance in the blood. Even in healthy people, aging gradually decreases the efficiency of kidney function. Kidney failure is often a result of years of poorly controlled high blood pressure and diabetes.

In the United States, approximately 30 million people have chronic kidney disease.

10. Alzheimer’s disease

Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease describes a gradual loss of cognition and intellectual ability including language, attention, memory, and problem solving is an otherwise healthy person. The cause is unknown and there is no cure. Recommendations to decrease the risk of dementia include avoiding smoking, and keeping blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes under control. Physical and mental fitness may help prevent dementia; keeping socially active may also help. Recurrent head injuries are associated with dementia.
Alzheimer’s disease and dementia are not direct causes of death, but they make
it more difficult to identify and treat complications that can lead to death.

The checklist: How to stay healthy

Being proactive about your health is an important starting point in maintaining health. Some steps are self-evident but a person may need help in taking the first step. The ability to recognize that living healthy is a life-long commitment is an important key to longevity. Nobody is perfect, and the ultimate goal is to have more good habits than bad. Failing to meet a goal does not give permission to quit trying. Doing well one day is not a license to stray the next.

Here is a checklist to promote a healthier lifestyle and living a longer, healthier life.

  • Stop smoking
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Engage in some type of physical activity every day
  • Eat a heart healthy diet
  • Maintain good control of blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes
  • Get routine medical care and physical examinations
  • Get recommended screenings for prostate and colon cancer
  • Perform routine home testicle exams
  • Keep mentally active
  • Maintain close relationships with a circle of friends
  • Seek help if you have symptoms of depression

What Treatments Help Relieve Testicular Pain?

What is testicular pain?

Treatments that help relieve testicular pain include medications, home care, and surgery.Treatments that help relieve testicular pain include medications, home care, and surgery.

Men and boys may experience pain and soreness in one or both testicles, the organs located near the scrotum that produce the male sex hormone. This medical condition is called testicular pain. Doctors can help determine the underlying cause of testicular pain to help you find relief.

Symptoms of testicular pain

Testicular pain is a medical condition characterized by constant or intermittent testicle pain. If you have testicular pain, you might experience symptoms like:

  • Red or swollen testicles
  • Pain, pressure, or a heavy feeling in the testicles
  • Low abdomen or groin pain
  • Tenderness in the scrotum or testicles
  • Nausea and vomiting

Some possible causes of testicular pain include:

  • Injury or damage to one or both of the testicles
  • Infection or swelling of the testicles or sperm duct
  • Twisting of the testicles that cuts of blood supply (testicular torsion)
  • Enlarged veins in scrotum
  • Cyst in the epididymis
  • Fluid around the testicles
  • Kidney stone
  • Hernia

Diagnosis for testicular pain

Most episodes of testicular pain are acute and relatively mild and resolve on their own. However, if you experience sudden, severe pain in your testicles, contact your doctor.

If your pain has been persistent for three or more months, you may have chronic testicular pain and should contact your doctor.

To diagnose your pain, you may undergo a physical examination and other tests, including:

Your doctor may also ask you some questions about:

  • Where you’re experiencing pain
  • How long the pain has lasted
  • Your medical and sexual history
  • Any activities that affect your level of pain

A healthcare provider will interview you to help determine a diagnosis and treatments to help relieve your testicular pain.

Treatments for testicular pain

Healthcare providers usually treat testicular pain differently depending on your condition and symptoms. Treatments to help relieve testicular pain could include one method or a combination of treatments.

Medications

If you have testicular pain, your provider might prescribe a medication that treats infection or inflammation. This may include antibiotics used to treat infections, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to treat inflammation and pain, or hormone therapy.

Home care

Your healthcare provider may recommend rest, using ice packs, and supporting your scrotum in an elevated position to help you heal. Listening to your body and living a healthy lifestyle can help relieve testicular pain and help reduce the chance of pain recurring.

Surgery

Some providers may use surgery to treat testicular pain if you are experiencing an urgent condition such as cancer or testicular torsion. Testicular torsion is a medical emergency that requires immediate medical attention. Occasionally, the surgeon is able to manually untwist the testicles, though it usually requires surgery. If not treated quickly, testicular torsion can cause the loss of one or both testicles.

If you are experiencing testicular pain due to varicocele (vein enlargement), a different type of surgery may be recommended. In these cases, a surgeon may make a small incision in the testicles to help restore normal blood flow to the testicles.

Complications and side effects of testicular pain

Some testicular pain treatments have complications and side effects. For instance, if you undergo surgery to help relieve testicular pain, you might experience:

  • Infection
  • Infertility
  • Deformity (misshapen testes)
  • Sexual dysfunction(inability to experience satisfaction during sex)
  • Testicular death (one or both testes die)

Medications for testicular pain may also have side effects. Consult your healthcare provider about possible complications of any medications you might take for testicular pain.

Do Testicular Cysts Go Away? Cystic Swelling of the Scrotum

testicular cyst treatment
Most testicular cysts go away on their own with rest and scrotal support. However, if the cyst is enlarged or becomes infected, they may require surgical intervention.

A cyst is a swelling that contains fluid, semisolid material or gaseous material. Cysts are very common all over the body, and most do not become cancerous. Testicular cysts are often caused by fluid collection secondary to lymphatic channel blockage, infection or engorgement of the testicular veins.

If you ever find a testicular (or scrotal) lump or a cystic mass near the testis, it needs to be examined by a doctor even if it is painless and does not cause symptoms.

Some cysts may go away with rest and scrotal support, whereas others may need surgical intervention. Most testicular cysts do not cause significant discomfort and may only be monitored for progress.

The testicular cysts or cystic swelling of the scrotum, which may resolve spontaneously or go away with rest and scrotal support, include:

  • Small hydrocoele: A small hydrocoele (a collection of fluid between the tunica vaginalis, the visceral and parietal layers of the testis) will often resolve without surgical intervention.
  • Acute idiopathic scrotal edema: This may present as a unilateral or, more commonly, bilateral swelling of the scrotum along with redness and warmth. The swelling is not tender and may extend to the penis or perineum (area between scrotum and anus). This self-limiting condition is often seen in boys younger than 10 years old.
  • Varicocele: This is an abnormal dilatation of veins within the pampiniform plexus (network of veins that drain the testis and epididymis) that may result in cystic swelling. Small varicoceles often get better with rest and scrotal support. However, larger ones may need surgical intervention.
  • Epididymo-orchitis: This is an inflammation of the epididymis (the tube-like structure that stores and carries sperm), which lies alongside the testis. It may be due to associated urinary tract infections or UTIs, though rarely is it due to a sexually transmitted disease or STD. Treating the associated condition relieves the cystic swelling unless there is pus formation.
  • Scrotal hematoma: Trauma (scrotal hematoma) to the testis may sometimes result in a cystic testicular swelling or a hematoma formation. This will go away in time with rest and fomentation. Surgical intervention may be needed in severe cases.
  • Hydrocele: Cystic swelling of the scrotum caused by an abnormal collection (or abnormal reabsorption) of the fluid in the tunica vaginalis. Sometimes, it may be secondary to trauma, inflammation or tumors. Small hydroceles may go away on their own, larger ones need surgical interventions.

The following testicular cysts may need intervention because they will not go away on their own:

  • Testicular tumors: Most testicular tumors are solid, but they may rarely present as cystic swelling. The risk factors for testicular tumors are cryptorchidism (undescended testis), family history of testicular cancer and a history of testicular tumor in the contralateral testis.
  • Epididymal cysts: The most common noncancerous cysts outside the testis, they are present in the epididymis (a coiled, tube-like structure that stores and transports sperms). Epididymal cysts are present as smooth, painless lumps above and behind the testes. Most cysts require no treatment. The patient just needs counseling. Occasionally, epididymal cysts may cause pain in the scrotum, requiring removal.
  • Cystic hygroma: Cystic swelling seen due to blockage of the lymphatic system. It may be seen at birth. Most hygromas need extensive treatment and surgical removal.
  • Sebaceous cysts: These are mobile, firm, smooth swellings within the skin of the scrotum. Though generally painless, they may get infected and result in pain. They may also result in multiple cysts.
  • Testicular torsion: The torsion or twisting of the testis is a painful condition that may need urgent intervention because there is a risk of testicular gangrene if untreated. It may be present as testicular swelling that may feel cystic due to the surrounding soft tissue edema.

How are testicular cysts diagnosed?

Most testicular cysts are not palpable on self-examination. Therefore, regular follow-ups with a doctor are important for swift diagnosis and prompt treatment.

Most swellings of the testis are diagnosed by ultrasonography and color doppler. If the radiologist cannot make a diagnosis with a testicular doppler, a contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) or a testicular magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be performed.

How are testicular cysts managed?

Most testicular cysts require only counseling and monitoring since they do not turn malignant or cause complications. Smaller cystic swellings can be managed with rest and scrotal support. Infected cysts may require antibiotics and NSAIDs. Surgical intervention often remains the last resort for the cysts if they enlarge, cause pressure on surrounding organs or undergo a malignant change.

Can You Get Rid of a Spermatocele Naturally? Spermatocelectomy

spermatocele treatment naturally
You cannot get rid of a spermatocele naturally despite the claims of diets, herbal remedies and lifestyle modifications. However, most spermatoceles are benign and do not require treatment.

You cannot get rid of a spermatocele naturally. Although diet, herbal remedies and lifestyle modifications often claim to treat a spermatocele, there is no evidence that they help get rid of the condition.

Most spermatoceles are not dangerous and do not require any treatment. However, you may need treatment when one continues to enlarge or causes symptoms or embarrassment. A spermatocele may also require treatment if it causes complications such as reduced blood supply to the penis (which is rare).

A small spermatocele or one that causes no symptoms or does not increase in size can be left without treatment. At times, it may even reduce in size when the body absorbs the collected fluid.

When needed, the treatment of a spermatocele includes medications, surgery or both.

Medications

  • No particular medications are needed for a spermatocele, however, treatment is mainly given for symptomatic relief.
  • Doctors may give nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain. They may also prescribe antibiotics if an underlying infection (epididymitis) is present.

Surgery

  • Surgery is largely avoided for men who have a desire to have children in the future.
  • A spermatocele cyst removal surgery (spermatocelectomy) may be done.
    • This is typically an outdoor procedure, and the operated person usually can go home the same day.
    • The procedure involves making a surgical cut (incision) over the scrotum or groin area to remove the spermatocele.
    • The surgery may be done under local or general anesthesia.
  • Another, although less effective, alternative surgery is sclerotherapy.
    • This involves injecting a substance that shrinks the spermatocele (a sclerosing agent).
    • Common sclerosing agents include alcohol, phenol, tetracycline and fibrin glue.
    • Sclerotherapy may be done along with aspiration that involves removing the collected fluid by inserting a special needle into the spermatocele.
  • Aspiration alone is generally not preferred because it has a high recurrence rate (the spermatocele comes back in some time after the procedure).

What is a spermatocele?

A spermatocele also called a spermatic cyst or an epididymal cyst is a benign (noncancerous) fluid-filled mass that grows near the testicles. The fluid in the spermatocele may be clear or cloudy and contains sperm.

Spermatoceles generally arise from a structure in the male reproductive system called the epididymis. The epididymis is a long, coiled tube-like structure that runs behind and over the top of each testicle. The main role of the epididymis is to store and transport sperm. It is also the site where the sperm matures.

A spermatocele may be caused by blockage (obstruction) of any part of the epididymis. The blockage may be congenital due to developmental anomaly or acquired due to infections.

While a spermatocele is typically benign and does not increase your risk of testicular cancer, cancerous swelling may be mistaken for it. Hence, you must contact your doctor for a definitive diagnosis. Most spermatoceles do not cause pain or discomfort. A large spermatocele, however, may cause pain, heaviness or embarrassment.

Can spermatoceles cause infertility?

Having a spermatocele per se does not affect a man’s fertility. However, treatment of a spermatocele (aspiration, surgery or sclerotherapy), may cause infertility. Surgery or sclerotherapy is generally avoided in men who wish to have children because there is a risk of epididymal injury that can cause infertility. Sclerotherapy may cause chemical epididymitis and resultant epididymal damage as side effects that may impair fertility.

Can Erectile Dysfunction Caused by Diabetes Be Reversed?

Why diabetes can lead to erectile dysfunction?

One of the lesser-known side effects of diabetes is an increased risk of erectile dysfunction. Experts think that circulatory problems from diabetes affect blood flow to the penis and make it difficult to get an erection. People with diabetes are three times more likely to have trouble maintaining an erection than people who don't have diabetes. 

Learn more about how to manage erectile dysfunction caused by diabetes. 

Erectile dysfunction is a frustrating condition where your penis cannot get or maintain an erection firm enough for sex. It's hard to admit that it's a problem, but it's more common than you might think. Nearly 30 million people in the United States have erectile dysfunction. Certain medications and some health conditions, including diabetes, significantly increase the risk of erectile dysfunction.

Erections are caused by an increase in blood flow to the penis. As the blood fills the erectile tissue, the tissue swells and gets larger and firmer. The swelling compresses the veins that let blood flow out of the penis, so your penis stays erect.

Diabetes can cause problems with blood flow in your extremities, including your penis. High blood sugar associated with diabetes may cause damage to blood vessels which affects blood circulation. If there is damage to the blood vessels in your genital area, you may have trouble becoming erect. 

Other health conditions contribute to erectile dysfunction. Heart disease, vascular disease, prostate cancer, certain medications, and a history of smoking all contribute to erectile dysfunction. 

Treatments for erectile dysfunction?

If you have erectile dysfunction, you should talk to your doctor about treatment options. They will help you make sure your diabetes is under control to prevent future damage to blood vessels. While there is no specific treatment to reverse damage to blood vessels caused by diabetes, there are several options to help you have erections.

Oral Medication

There are a variety of oral medications that improve your ability to get erections. The medicines work by increasing blood flow to your penis so you can get erect from sexual stimulus. All the medications require a doctor's prescription. Your doctor will help you choose which one will work best for you.

Injections or Suppositories 

If oral erectile dysfunction medications aren't the best option for you, your doctor might suggest an injectable medication. To use it, you will need to use a needle and syringe to inject the medicine into the base of your penis right before sex. There are also suppositories that might help. With these, you insert a tiny pellet into the tip of your penis to cause an erection.

Surgery

Penile implants have a good track record of success for people who can't get an erection from medication. You will need to have surgery to place an implant into your penis. Inflatable implants have a small pump placed in your scrotum that you use to fill the implant when you want to have sex. Malleable implants are made of a bendable material. You can use your hands to manipulate your penis into the desired position.

Vacuum Devices

You can achieve an erection by slipping a plastic tube over your penis and pumping it to create a low-pressure vacuum. The pressure draws the blood into the erectile tissue. To keep the erection, you slip a ring around the base of the shaft.

Testosterone

Diabetes is often linked to low testosterone levels. If your doctor finds that your testosterone is low, they may prescribe testosterone by injection or skin patch. The increase in sex hormones can help solve erectile dysfunction.

Lifestyle changes

As part of erectile dysfunction treatment, your doctor may suggest you make lifestyle changes, such as:

These changes may increase the effectiveness of any erectile dysfunction treatment. In addition, lifestyle changes can improve your overall health. Improving heart health and managing your diabetes will reduce your risk of future complications.

Other considerations

When you see your doctor to talk about erectile dysfunction, you should discuss your overall health. Some medications for erectile dysfunction are not appropriate if you have other health conditions. Make sure to tell your doctor about any medications you are currently taking. Let them know if you have a history of cancer or heart disease.

Once your doctor knows your medical history, they can help you choose the best treatment plan for your erectile dysfunction.

What Is the Main Cause of Erectile Dysfunction?

Penile erection is a complex process in which the brain, nerves, muscles and blood vessels play a major role. The main causes of erectile dysfunction include psychological and health conditions, medications, trauma and lifestyle factors.
Penile erection is a complex process in which the brain, nerves, muscles and blood vessels play a major role. The main causes of erectile dysfunction include psychological and health conditions, medications, trauma and lifestyle factors.

Penile erection is a complex process in which the brain, nerves, muscles and blood vessels play a major role. In addition, hormones and emotions are at work. Problems in any of these may result in an inability to get or maintain an erection during sexual activity. This disorder is known as erectile dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction may be caused by several reasons. Major causes may differ in different age groups. Causes of erectile dysfunction may be broadly divided as follows.

What role does mental health play in causing erectile dysfunction?

A problem in a person’s mental health is one of the most common contributing factors of erectile dysfunction.

  • Anxiety: Anxiety can stem from anything—worrying about not being able to perform in bed (performance anxiety), finances, family responsibilities and more. This anxiety can come in the middle of the sexual act and cause the person to lose an erection early.
  • Stress: Everyday stress wreaks havoc on not only a person’s heart and digestive system, but also their penis. Sex can work as a stress-buster and stress itself can cause problems in sex.
  • Depression: Erectile dysfunction can have its root in depression as well. Depression is a potent dampener of desires, including a person’s sexual desire. Some medications used in the treatment of depression can also have erectile dysfunction as a side effect.
  • Anger: Having frequent arguments and getting angry may make a person lose interest in sex. Although these flush the person’s face, they reduce blow flow to the penis, resulting in erectile dysfunction.

How do lifestyle factors contribute to erectile dysfunction?

Lifestyle factors contribute to erectile dysfunction in the following ways.

  • Unhealthy lifestyle: Having a lot of fatty food and being physically inactive can make a person gain extra (unhealthy) pounds. Being overweight, particularly obese, lowers the amount of sex-boosting hormone known as testosterone, which ultimately affects the person’s sexual performance. It is also linked to hypertension (high blood pressure) and atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), which can reduce blood flow to the penis.
  • Alcohol: While getting in the mood with alcohol is OK, doctors advise against overindulging. Doctors recommend drinking no more than two drinks per day for men.
  • Smoking: Tobacco smoking can damage a person’s blood vessels and reduce arterial blood supply to the penis. This can lead to erectile dysfunction.
  • Recreational drug abuse: The use of illegal drugs such as marijuana and cocaine can cause erectile dysfunction by damaging the blood vessels. These drugs can also restrict blood flow to the penis.

What health issues affect a person’s ability to get an erection?

Atherosclerosis and diabetes are common causes of long-standing erectile dysfunction. Other health issues that can significantly contribute to the problem of erectile dysfunction include

What medications have erectile dysfunction as one of their side effects?

While treating an illness, certain medications can have erectile dysfunction as one of their side effects. These include

If you develop any side effects, including erectile dysfunction, after taking certain medications, consult your doctor. Do not stop taking the medications unless your doctor tells you to do so.