The Aging & Elderly – Weak Erections

The Effect Of Weak Erections On The Aging And Elderly

Introduction

Weak Erections( also known as Erectile Dysfunction) are a pervasive problem, and is present in men of all age groups. However, as a man ages, the prevalence of weak erections increases significantly. The Massachusetts Male Aging Study reports the prevalence of erectile dysfunction in men aged forty to fifty years is around 30%. This figure increases to 75% amongst men aged 70 and older. What is also pertinent is that the prevalence of moderate to severe impotence is far higher in the latter age group.

The average age of men presenting to erectile dysfunction clinics in South Africa is 54 years old. 70% of patients are between 40 and 69 years of age.

Cause and effect

The relationship is fairly easy to understand, reports Dr Willie Jordaan, managing director of Mens Clinic International. Mens Clinic International is the largest group of erectile dysfunction clinics in South Africa. The underlying causes of erectile dysfunction are in a majority of cases, physical in nature. This is through disease processes that affect the arteries, veins, nerves, hormones or tissues of the penis. For example they are caused by diseases like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, neurological disease and hormone deficiencies. These disease processes are more prevalent in the aging population. Consequently the association of erectile dysfunction with aging is established.

Declining sexual capability is a devastating problem for aging men. The importance of being able to function normally from a sexual point of view is a major issue in mens lives. The decline in potency represents a clear indication of a man’s mortality. The subsequent psychological manifestations of the problem, like depression, frustration and anxiety represent a further complication. The impact of this syndrome on marriages, family and social relationships, is considerable.

Often, a man’s retirement, may coincide with the onset of this problem, increasing the perception of aging and sexual decline.   

Weak erections are often as a result of underlying conditions

There are two critical messages, Dr Jordaan continues. Firstly impotence, or weakening erections should send a clear message to the man. There is possibly an underlying disease process in the body. This disease is manifesting as poor erectile performance. Heart attacks, stroke, or kidney failure for example are very real threats in a man with vascular disease sufficient to cause impotence. Sexual medicine practitioners at these clinics undertake investigations. The investigations establish the underlying pathology. The doctors then institute treatment protocols to retard their progress. No man should ignore the message that his failing penis may be sending out to him.

Treatments

Secondly, on a positive note, treatments for erectile dysfunction have advanced signioficantly. They have advanced to such an extent that it is now possible to return up to 90% of men with erectile dysfunction to normal sexually active lives. This is possible for men even well into the eighth and  ninth decades of life. Above all, there are reliable, safe and effective medical methods to address this common and serious male health issue.

With appropriate therapy, couples should be able to maintain sexual intimacy as part of their lives, as long as they may wish to.

Conclusion

In conclusion Men’s Clinic International deals with any sexual problems that are related to Weak Erections, Early Ejaculation, Low Libido, STIs or Circumcision. Do get in touch with us to book a consultation with our professional doctors who specialise in Men’s Sexual Health.

Contact us now to find out more about Men’s Clinic International and male sexual health. Or click here to book an appointment with one of our friendly doctors in your area.

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