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04/01/2012 05:00 AM

Healthy Living: Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction, an issue that was seldom discussed ten years ago, today's it's a different story.

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Urologist, Dr. Andrew McCullough said, “Over half the guy over forty will have some degree of difficulty achieving or maintaining their erection."

Erectile dysfunction or ED occurs more often in men over forty and caused by anatomical abnormalities, for example, a narrowing of the blood vessels often caused by other medical problems.

"High blood pressure, diabetes, excessive weight, inactivity or cholesterol issues, all these issues can cause erectile dysfunction,” said Dr. McCullough.

ED can and does also effect men in their twenties but the cause when compared to older men, is slightly different.

“In a twenty year old there might be more of a psychological component; inexperience, anxiety,” said Dr. McCullough.

ED medication can be taken by most men, including those with diabetes, high blood pressure even men with heart problems but only under a doctor’s care.

Dr. McCullough said, "Don't be afraid of taking these drugs Viagra levels if you have a heart condition as long you are not taking nitrates."

If you have erectile dysfunction and you want to take medication or you can't, the doctors recommend to get a full physical make sure there is nothing else going with your medically that may be interfering with your performance and sure to check out any medications you may be on.

Some studies, although not considered statistically significant, suggest certain over the counter anti-inflammatory medication like ibuprofen, can cause ED. Some experts say don't blame the medication.

"If he is taking a lot of non steroidal anti-inflammatory it may be because he's in a lot of pain and in fact it may be the pain that is causing the problems opposed to medications,” said Dr. McCullough.