How seeking help in the bedroom could save you life
The Hallamshire Hospital’s Male Sexual Dysfunction Clinic encouraged men with the condition to seek help on Valentine’s Day as research shows link with erectile dysfunction and heart disease.
Erectile Dysfunction is thought to affect 2.3 million men in the UK but only 10% of these men seek help for the problem. The Trust’s Andrology Service see around 90 men in their clinic every week – most of which can be treated successfully.
Sister Debbie Davies-South Clinical Nurse Specialist and Psychotherapist within the service, said: “Valentines Day was a time for couples to be in touch with their romantic side and celebrate their love for each other but for some, this was a day of anxiety and avoidance of any intimacy. Recently there is overwhelming evidence that erectile dysfunction is a warning sign of possible heart disease. 64% of men who have had a heart attack have also had a warning up to three years previously, in the form of erectile dysfunction.”
There are many causes of Erectile Dysfunction and it often be a sign of undiagnosed medical problems such as diabetes, peyronies disease, hormone imbalance, high blood pressure and raised cholesterol.
Debbie added: “Men may avoid discussing this problem, due to feelings of inadequacy and embarrassment. The problem may only happen intermittently at first but could rapidly escalate, due to fear of failure and performance anxiety. It is hard for any man to accept this is a problem and some may even have difficulty discussing it with their partner which can lead to depression, loss of self esteem and breakdown of relationships.”
If you are worried about Erectile Dysfunction you should book an appointment with your GP or contact the Andrology service at the Royal Hallamshire Hospital on 0114 2712498 for additional advice Reducing risk factors such as stopping smoking, reducing alcohol intake and trying to reduce stress and anxiety can help with the condition.
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