Erectile dysfunction, also known as impotence, is the inability to initiate and sustain an erection. Erectile dysfunction is very common in older men.
What are the common reasons for erectile dysfunction?
There are several reasons for erectile dysfunction. Some of the common reasons are mentioned below:
- Overweight or obesity
- Diabetes
- Hormonal
- Psychological (Depression)
- Injury (head or testicular)
- Prostate problem
- Medications
Experiencing erectile dysfunction can be very distressing. This could result in under confidence and low self-esteem. In addition, erectile dysfunction may also be indicative of increased cardiovascular risk.
How does an increased BMI lead to erectile dysfunction?
Being overweight or obese can contribute to erectile dysfunction. Excess weight not only interferes with sexual performance but also causes hormonal imbalance.
Men who have a weight problem (high Body Mass Index) can have low testosterone. Low testosterone results from several reasons. Excessive weight and increased waistline prevent the normal functioning of the testicles. In addition, fat or adipose tissue interferes with the action of testosterone in the body.
Low testosterone production has an impact on muscle mass.
A combination of
- Low muscle mass
- Low testosterone
- Poor exercise tolerance
- Under confidence
leads to erectile dysfunction in men with higher Body Mass Index (BMI).
How does losing weight help overcome erectile dysfunction?
When you lose weight, you not only feel more confident, your exercise tolerance also improves. In addition, you become metabolically healthier. Research shows that with weight loss testosterone production improves and thereby men tend to have a better quality of sex life.
More importantly, the risk of cardiovascular problems also reduces with weight loss.
What help can I get in the clinic?
Rather than replacing testosterone without understanding the underlying problems, our endocrinologist or hormone specialist examines and investigates you. Once the underlying cause for erectile dysfunction is identified appropriate treatment advice is provided both for weight loss and erectile dysfunction.
A team of specialists including health care professionals including Cognitive behaviour therapists, endocrinologists, dietitians and if appropriate a psychologist will be involved in your management.
If you have erectile dysfunction and have a weight problem, contact us for more details on our specialist weight management program.
Watch our video on Weight Loss for Erectile Dysfunction