Browsed by
Tag: depression

The role of the mind in erection and erectile dysfunction.

The role of the mind in erection and erectile dysfunction.

Comments 1 comment

The medical problem known as erectile dysfunction (ED) is complicated and has both physical and psychological aspects. Over the past 50 years, the paradigm of what causes ED and how it is treated has moved from a mental focus to a physical one.

The development of non-invasive oral medicines and a deeper understanding of the physical aspects of ED have both contributed to this. Nevertheless, the psychological aspects of erections and ED continue to be crucial, although sometimes going unnoticed, and many men can overcome ED by addressing these elements.

While some erections appear to “simply happen,” many necessitate mental stimulation or sexual interest. Some men continue to engage in this process subconsciously, which means they do not need to actively think about sex but rather have an open mind that is susceptible to subconscious thoughts or stimuli. This is why many men don’t consider the mind’s function in the erection process until an ED develops.

Psychogenic Erectile dysfunction

The symptoms of erectile dysfunction are distinct from those of many other illnesses. Some physical conditions may have psychosomatic roots. In other words, a person’s thoughts may truly be the root of their physical ailment.

This idea is frequently misapplied to ED, which leads to misunderstandings and hinders effective treatment. The involvement of the mind in erections is more extensive, even though some men will have ED as a symptom of underlying mental health disorders like stress.

What the mind believes and how it interprets the world around it helps with erections. Erections will be challenging, if not impossible, to achieve without the right stimulus and desire. The mind must process information in a way that tells the body that an erection is required for sexual interaction, even when external stimulation is present. In the absence of this, ED may occur; not because the mind is interfering with a naturally occurring process, but rather because an essential element of erections (i.e. engaging the mind) is absent.

WHAT CAUSES MENTAL IMPOTENCE?

Although physical factors account for the majority of erectile dysfunction reasons, psychological or emotional problems are also frequently to blame. Erectile dysfunction (ED) or psychological impotence is the term used to describe ED that is caused by a psychological issue.

Erectile dysfunction in males can have a variety of psychological causes, just like with physical ED. Instead, numerous problems can all be the root of or contribute to psychological ED, including:

Anxiety and stress

Despite the fact that stress and anxiety are two distinct conditions, they are nonetheless closely tied to the problem of erectile dysfunction.

Erectile dysfunction frequently has underlying causes that include stress. However, tension can eventually lead to anxiety, which in turn increases stress. This vicious cycle is detrimental for both your mental health and sex life.

But it’s simple to see that stress and anxiety are much more tightly tied than you might think if you look at the physical side of things. Many guys are unaware that there are actually three different forms of erections.

While a psychogenic erection is brought on by a particular visual or mental image, a reflexive erection is brought on by physical stimulus. An erection that takes place while you’re sleeping is known as a nocturnal erection.

Each of these three involves a different set of physiological processes, such as those involving hormones, muscles, blood vessels, the neurological system, and emotions. ED may be brought on by or contributed to by the compromise of any of these systems.

Relationship difficulties

A healthy relationship takes work to develop and keep up. To genuinely know and trust someone, it takes time. It’s possible that problems in your romantic relationship could affect how you and your partner interact sexually.

Another possibility is that your erectile dysfunction is causing issues in your relationship. This is just one example of how the cycle of ED can negatively impact many different areas of your life. The first step in addressing this specific psychological ED cause is communication, but it’s also one of the trickiest.

Participating in counselling may assist you in better understanding each other’s needs and strengthening your relationship if you and your partner have trouble communicating.

Depression

If you haven’t personally dealt with depression, you could imagine it to be similar to melancholy. Clinically, it goes far further than that.

Depression has a similar effect to an anchor, dragging you down mentally and physically and interfering with practically every part of your life. The following are some of the most typical signs of depression:

  • constant sadness and emptiness
  • feelings of worry, pessimism, or despair about your lot in life
  • decreased passion for your hobbies and interests
  • feelings of guilt or worthlessness
  • slowed speech or movement
  • A change in your body weight or appetite
  • Oversleeping or have difficulties falling asleep
  • inability to concentrate, retain details, or decide
  • aches, pains, and stomach problems without a known cause
  • Suicidal ideas and actions

As you can expect, these symptoms can make it challenging to enjoy much of anything, much less sex. In middle-aged males, a 1998 study in the journal Psychosomatic Medicine clearly shown a connection between sadness and impotence.

The researchers came to the conclusion that there was an association between depressed symptoms and erectile dysfunction that existed and was unrelated to demographics or ageing using data from the Massachusetts Male Aging Study.

Performance phobia

In many instances, performance anxiety turns into a self-fulfilling prophecy where you worry that you won’t be able to please your spouse. Your anxiety may carry over into the bedroom and contribute to erectile dysfunction.

Negative self-talk, such as fears about being able to get an erection, win over your partner, or refrain from ejaculating too soon, can sometimes be the cause of performance anxiety.

If you’ve had trouble getting an erection in the past, those instances can still be fresh in your memory and interfere with your ability to unwind in bed.

Guilt and low confidence

Many erectile dysfunctional males feel bad about being unable to appease their partner. Guilt can often contribute to the continued cycle of ED if the problem continues to worsen, so it becomes more serious than just a small problem.

Shame and guilt are prevalent emotions that are frequently connected to mental health problems, such as severe depression. In actuality, guilt feelings are a typical sign of depression.

Psychological ED may also be influenced by low self-esteem. Your likelihood of having problems with your sexual performance may increase if you are insecure about it or worry that your partner won’t find you attractive enough.

Use of Pornography

While viewing pornography isn’t necessarily wrong or harmful, it can have a detrimental effect on your sexual function and erectile health.

According to research, regularly watching and masturbating to pornography may lead you to have inflated expectations of your sexual experiences and partners. It’s called porn-induced erectile dysfunction when this makes it harder for you to maintain a hard on.

Conclusion:

Many ED sufferers are uncomfortable with the idea that their thinking is a contributing factor in, if not the main cause of, their inability to have an erection. It may be harder to understand and accept psychogenic ED because it frequently happens even in the absence of any current mental health issues or discomfort.

These guys could be hasty to rule out the idea of psychogenic ED and end up ignoring a crucial aspect of normal erections. However, seeking assistance becomes simpler and ED therapies might ultimately result in greater results when men who experience ED can acknowledge that their minds are constantly engaged throughout erections.

REFERENCES:

Is Propecia effective for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia(BPH)?

Is Propecia effective for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia(BPH)?

Comments 0 Comment

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia(BPH)

As men age, a condition known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or enlargement of the prostate gland, becomes more prevalent. Uncomfortable urinary symptoms, such as a bladder blockage, might be brought on by an enlarged prostate gland. It may also result in issues with the kidneys, urinary system, or bladder.

The urine stream may be weak or intermittent with this disorder. It occasionally causes infections, stones in the bladder, and reduced kidney function.

Prostate gland enlargement can cause a variety of symptoms, all of which tend to get progressively worse with time. Common BPH warning signs and symptoms include:

  • Urge to urinate frequently or immediately
  • increased frequency of nighttime urination (nocturia)
  • difficulty beginning to urinate
  • weak urine flow, intermittent pee flow, or dribbling after urinating
  • bladder not emptying entirely

Finasteride(Generic Propecia)

Finasteride is a medical drug available under the generic name Propecia which belongs to a class of medication called 5-alpha reductase inhibitors. This medicine is used alone or as a combination with other medical agents to treat enlarged prostate in men by shrinking them. It is also used to treat hair loss or pattern baldness in men. 

Acute urine retention is less likely to occur when finasteride is used to treat BPH symptoms including frequent and challenging urination (sudden inability to urinate). Additionally, it might lessen the necessity of prostate surgery.

By preventing the body from producing a male hormone that causes the prostate to grow, finasteride treats BPH.

How to use Propecia?

  • Finasteride can be taken either with or without food. The only requirement is that you take it at roughly the same time every day, regardless of the time of day.
  • Take your finasteride tablets with a glass of water, whole. Avoid crushing or breaking them. The typical dosage for an enlarged prostate is 5 mg once daily.
  • Finasteride is often taken for a long period of time. It might be necessary for you to take it for a long time. Take your finasteride as soon as you remember if it has been fewer than six hours since your scheduled dose.
  • Skip the missed dose and take the next one at the regular time if it has been more than 6 hours since your dose was scheduled to be taken. To make up for a missed dose, do not take a second dose.
  • Set an alarm to remind you if you frequently forget to take your medication. Asking your pharmacist for suggestions on alternative strategies to help you remember to take your medication is another option.

Precaution before using propecia

Several things must be discussed before medicating with propecia such as:

  • If you have an allergy to finasteride, any other medications, or any of the substances in finasteride tablets, let your doctor and pharmacist know right away. For a list of the ingredients, consult the patient information or speak with your pharmacist.
  • Inform your doctor and pharmacist about all prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, dietary supplements, and herbal products that you are now taking or intend to use. Your physician might need to adjust the dosage of your drugs or keep a close eye on you for side effects.
  • Inform your physician if you currently have liver illness or have ever had prostate cancer.
  • You should be aware that finasteride is solely prescribed for male use. Don’t let women, especially those who are or might be pregnant, handle crushed or broken finasteride tablets. The foetus could be harmed by touching cracked or crushed finasteride tablets. A woman who is pregnant or who might become pregnant should notify her doctor and wash the area where she came into contact with the broken or crushed finasteride tablets with detergent and water right away.
  • You should be aware that finasteride may reduce male fertility; this medication may also cause lower libido, ejaculatory issues, and the inability to achieve or maintain an erection both during therapy and after it is stopped. You should discuss the dangers of taking finasteride with your doctor.

Side effects of Propecia

Propecia is associated with several side effects such as:

Inform the doctor if these conditions persist or get worse.

Some adverse effects can be very harmful. Call your doctor right away if any of these symptoms occur to you:

  • breast alterations include enlargement, lumps, discomfort, or nipple discharge
  • rash/sitching/shives
  • breathing or swallowing 
  • difficulties and facial and lip edoema

Finasteride use may raise your risk of getting breast cancer or high-grade prostate cancer, which spreads and progresses more quickly than other types of prostate cancer. You should discuss the dangers of taking finasteride with your doctor.

Other negative effects of finasteride are possible. If you experience any strange issues while taking this medicine, contact your doctor right away.

When to see a doctor

Talk to your doctor if you’re experiencing urinary issues. It’s crucial to detect or rule out any underlying causes, even if you don’t find urine symptoms to be troublesome. Urinary tract blockage could occur if urinary issues are left untreated. Seek emergency medical help if you are unable to urinate at all.

REFERENCES:

For more details, kindly visit below.

Depression and Erectile Dysfunction: what’s the connection?

Depression and Erectile Dysfunction: what’s the connection?

Comments 0 Comment

Introduction

In today’s world, been depressed is one of the most common symptom found in adults. As per reports, one in every ten American adults is been associated with depression in one way or other. Depression is a kind of mental disorder that almost every person has to go through at some point in their lifetime. But the question is, can depression have any impact on your sexual health?

What is a Depression?

Depression is basically a common but serious mental disorder, medically termed as Major Depressive Disorder which negatively affects a person’s way of thinking, how the person feels and behaves. This mental disorder is different from mood fluctuations. In addition to causing emotional and physical problems, it can also make it difficult for you to function at work and at home.

Despite the existence of effective treatments for mental disorders, more than 75% of people in low- and middle-income countries do not receive any treatment. There are several barriers to effective mental health care, including a lack of resources, a lack of trained health-care providers, and social stigma associated with mental illness. People with depression in countries of all income levels are frequently misdiagnosed and prescribed antidepressants even when they do not have the disorder.

Symptoms of depression

In a depressive episode, the individual experiences significant difficulties in personal, family, social, educational, occupational, and/or other important areas. The symptoms generally differs in terms of severity and natured which is based on individual occupation, gender, and age group. Depression symptoms can vary from mild to severe and can include:

  • Changes in appetite
  • Loss of energy or increased fatigue
  • Increase in purposeless physical activity or slowed movements or speech
  • weight loss or weight gain
  • Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
  • Feeling sad or having a depressed mood
  • Feeling worthless or guilty
  • Difficulty thinking, concentrating or making decisions
  • Thoughts of death or suicide
  • Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed

Furthermore, medical conditions such as thyroid problems, brain tumors, and vitamin deficiencies can mimic depression symptoms, so it is important to rule out general medical causes.

Triggering events

Events which triggers an individual’s emotional, psychological, or physical events or circumstances that can cause depression symptoms to appear or return are generally categorized as tiggering events. Some of the most general and major triggering events include:

  • The loss of a loved one, the conflict within the family, and the change of a relationship are stressful events in life
  • Recovery from depression is incomplete when depression treatment is stopped too early
  • An illness or medical crisis, such as a new diagnosis or chronic disease such as diabetes or heart disease.


What is erectile dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction is basically a disorder found in men which could be a sign of physical or psychological condition. The symptoms associated with this disorder is found in men’s reproductive organ i.e. inability to keep an erection firmer and longer enough during a sexual activity.

Erectile dysfunction is a treatable disorder which includes many possible methods such as natural remedies, alternative medicine, and prescription drugs. In this article, let us discuss about some faster ways to treat this disorder.

There are many men who experience erectile dysfunction occasionally because of stress, fatigue, alcohol, or emotional issues, but 25% of men have recurring episodes of the disorder. People dealing with erectile dysfunction will be:

  • Unable to achieve erection at anytime needed.
  • might achieve erection sometime but not when needed like during sexual activity.
  • might able to achieve erection when needed but not long enough

Depression and erectile dysfunction

Ever wonder whether depression and Erectile dysfunction is linked? The answer is 100% YES.

  • A study found that middle-aged men who have depression symptoms are nearly twice as likely to report ED as men who don’t have depression symptoms.
  • There is a bidirectional relationship between depression and erectile dysfunction, according to experts. In other words, it flows both ways, and can cause a negative spiral in which each condition makes the other worse.

It has even been suggested in another review that depressed men should be routinely screened for ED – and vice versa, depressed men should also be screened for ED. The purpose of including this isn’t to make you worry, and it’s also important to note that getting an ED doesn’t always mean getting depressed. Our goal is to emphasize that taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your erections.

How can depression cause erectile dysfunction?

Many different symptoms are associated with depression, from fatigue and brain fog to numbness, persistent sadness, and (as we now know) erectile dysfunction. The effects of all of these can lower your sex drive (libido) and interfere with your ability to reach orgasm for some men (and women).

Erectile dysfunction can be caused by many different kinds of depression. Some of them include:

  • Feeling down for more than two weeks
  • The condition of depression (which is often associated with anxiety)
  • Feelings of sadness and loss of interest in things you once enjoyed (major depression)
  • Manic depression, formerly known as bipolar disorder, is characterized by periods of extreme highs and lows.
  • The possibility of postnatal depression is not limited to women. Yes, men can suffer from depression after having a child too.
  • During the dark, winter months, Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD occurs.

How can erectile dysfunction cause depression?

As mentioned before, there are a number of causes of Erectile dysfunction. This includes both physical as well as psychological. However, regardless of the reason that caused you ED, men dealing with Ed be it temporary have psychological and social conditions such as:

  • Separated from others
  • Disrupted
  • Concerned
  • The feeling of frustration and anger
  • trouble in a relationship
  • lost focus
  • decrease in self esteem and responsible.

As we can see, these feelings and though are not something that just stay under a circumference. They have enough potential to impact you mind causing depression when left unchecked.

Complementary treatment options for ED and depression.

It is a general professional advise to start with some changes in lifestyle to counter such condition. Other treatments such as medications and appropriate surgeries could come later on if needed. Although these are some of the very effective options to counter depression and ED, there are many choices of change in lifestyle with no side effects.

  • Talking therapies like couple counseling
  • sleep prioritizing
  • avoiding drugs, alcohol, and any such substances.
  • physical activity such as exercise
  • Yoga for mental peace and development
  • socializing with family and friends
  • a good and healthy diet
  • avoid social media and limiting the screen time, etc.

REFERENCES:

For more details, kindly visit below.