Impotence and Aging in Men |
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Impotence or chronic erectile dysfunction (ED) is often a side effect of the process of aging, though two thirds of men under 70 and one third of men over 75 are still sexually active. As they age, men experience a decline in the frequency of interest in sexual activity. When they do engage in it, they generally note that it takes longer to achieve full arousal and satisfaction than in younger days. This is not Impotence. Impotence in the elderly man is primarily due to insufficient circulation of the hormone testosterone. In addition, the wear and tear on the blood vessels connected to hydraulic system involved in achieving and maintaining an erection eventually take their toll, resulting in Impotence. In healthy men, aging is a gradual process. As the hormonal production diminishes, so do thoughts and feelings that lead to sexual activity. If a man still holds his virility as a marker of health and vitality, there are several tools available to him for maintaining it. There are many natural aids with few side-effects that can be used to delay the onset of Impotence. Strengthening herbs like yohimbe, and nutritional supplements like the amino acid l-aginine, have received good reviews for enhancing erectile performance. L-arginine is said to have a dilating effect on blood vessels, allowing more blood to flow rapidly into the penis. It is reportedly best used in combination with herbs like yohimbe. Yohimbe is one of many herbs used for centuries by men to delay the onset of Impotence. Older men, dealing with Impotence, would probably not do well to use ED pumps (penis pumps) as they may serve only to drain their already dwindling sexual energy prematurely, if the stimulation leads to ejaculation. The purpose of an erection being sexual intercourse, a restrictive band or a “cock ring” worn at the base of the penis may serve to keep the erectile tissues from deflating prematurely. This helps to provide the means of satisfying the needs of the wife as well as the husband. These bands or rings should not be worn for more than 30 minutes. |