Erectile Dysfunction (ED)  is a common condition, and men from all backgrounds and ages can experience it. There is a tendency to remain quiet about the condition because of its intimate nature, but this fosters myths and misinformation. These myths are not entirely harmless since they can exacerbate the problem in many ways. Men may try to self-medicate by seeking cheap viagra or sildenafil generic options, but without busting these myths, treatment choices cannot be fully informed. In this blog, we list these myths and discuss them in detail. 

1- ED is a part of growing old

Many people, especially men, believe that experiencing some form of ED is a natural part of ageing. However, if we look at the facts, only 40% of men in their 40s report experiencing ED. 70% of men who are in their 70s struggle with this condition.

It can be said that age places one at a higher risk of developing ED, but it certainly isn’t an inevitable outcome. With timely and effective intervention, ED can be easily treated and managed as a condition.

2- Only older men experience symptoms of ED

As explained above, the prevalence of ED is high in some age groups, but age is not the only determining factor. According to research,  26% of men under the age of 40 experience ED.

There are a number of other risk factors, such as obesity or other health conditions, which can cause ED at any age for a man.

3- ED is only a mental problem

It is a common misconception that ED is a problem caused by a lack of sensual interest or mental inhibition. This couldn’t be farther from the truth and can in fact be problematic by leading the man down a spiral of anxiety and self-doubt, eventually worsening his ED. 

ED can be caused by a score of health conditions. A man should openly communicate with his partner and should seek professional help, from a physician or a professional therapist.

4- ED is only a physical problem

The flipside of the above myth is people who believe that ED is only caused by a blood circulation issue or problems with the erectile muscle itself. The truth is more nuanced, and getting erect involves a lot of mental and physical processes. This is why ED can be caused by a number of physical and mental problems. 

5- All ED medications are the same.

ED medications aim to increase blood flow to the penis. They are part of a category of drugs known as PDE5s. They work by relaxing the blood vessels in the penis to allow for an easier flow of blood in the presence of sensual stimulation. Although the end goal of these medications may be the same, they do still have different active ingredients. For example, Sildenafil is the active ingredient in Viagra, whereas tadalafil is the active ingredient in generic Cialis.

6- Medication is the only solution

When a doctor diagnoses ED, they will run a score of tests on you and take into consideration your lifestyle choices and habits. If you smoke or drink excessively, you will be asked to give it up. If you live a sedentary life and eat unhealthy foods, you will be asked to change that as well. The doctor will also determine if you have any secondary health conditions, like diabetes, that may be causing ED. If you manage your underlying health condition and start living a healthier lifestyle, you will see your ED symptoms subside. Medication for ED only becomes relevant if your condition is not due to a factor that can be mitigated through other means.

7- ED is not a lethal disease

It is true that having erectile dysfunction isn’t going to kill you. However, if an individual is experiencing ED issues that could be a symptom of underlying health problems, it can lead to adverse outcomes. Heart disease is usually one of the biggest culprits. Cardiovascular problems cause the arteries to restrict and greatly limit the blood flow to all parts of the body. This could eventually lead to a heart attack. ED can even be correlated with type 2 diabetes as well. An individual with high blood sugar can have damaged arteries. These arteries would not be able to provide good circulation. ED itself may not cause death in these cases, but the underlying health issues can.