Different treatment options can treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in older adults. Depending on which you choose, the effectiveness and side effects may vary.
ED is a common health condition, and it is more common as you get older due to expected changes in the body.
These changes may include the way your blood flows around your body, as this may become more difficult with age. Because getting an erection relies on the blood flowing to the penis, if there are blood flow restrictions, it may cause ED.
While there are no ED cures, there are effective medical and nonmedical treatments that are well-researched.
ED cures for seniors
Photography by VorDa/Getty Images
ED is defined as the inability to get or maintain an erection for the purpose of sexual intercourse. According to a 2018 study, it affects around a third of males, and its prevalence increases with age, with half of all males over 40 years experiencing some form of ED.
The prevalence of ED can increase per decade after 40, with up to 15% of males experiencing total ED at 70 years of age.
Treatment options depend on the reason you have ED, but there are a range of prescription medications that work to increase blood flow to the penis. Some of the most commonly prescribed ED medications include phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, like:
These drugs still require sexual arousal and stimulation to be effective.
If oral medications do not work for you, another drug a doctor may recommend is alprostadil (Edex, MUSE). Alprostadil (Edex) is an intracavernosal injection (ICI) that a urologist will typically prescribe and manage. Alprostadil (MUSE) is a suppository that you insert into the urethra.
Unlike PDE5 inhibitors, sexual stimulus is not absolutely necessary but will help produce the best results. This drug immediately increases the blood flow to the penis, helping you get an erection.
Possible drug interactions
According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), some of these medications may interact negatively with others. For example, a doctor will not typically recommend PDE5 inhibitors if you also take nitrates for a heart condition because the combination could lead to a sudden drop in blood pressure.
Alpha-blockers, which doctors often use to treat an enlarged prostate in older males, can also cause a sudden drop in blood pressure when combined with ED medications.
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The side effects of all ED medicines may include vision and hearing loss or a long lasting erection known as priapism, which is often painful and not the result of sexual stimulation. If an erection lasts longer than 4 hours, you should consider contacting a doctor or healthcare professional right away.
Nonmedical treatments
There are also nonmedical methods and devices for improving ED.
Devices and wearables
One such device is a vacuum erection device (VED), also known as a penis pump. This device holds the penis and triggers an erection by a change in air pressure. Healthcare professionals may recommend this option for milder ED cases, and the devices have up to around a 90% success rate.
Another option is a venous constriction band, like Eddy by Giddy. Eddy is a registered, class 2 medical device with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and it works by constriction. It is important to note that being FDA-registered is not the same as being FDA-approved.
You can also use wearables alongside medications to enhance your experience.
Penile prosthesis surgery
In severe ED cases, doctors may recommend penile prosthesis surgery. These surgeries involve placing an implant into the penis or into the penis and scrotum, depending on the type you choose after your consultation.
Inflatable options typically see a pump inserted into the scrotum that you can squeeze to release saline solution into two cylinders inside the penis. The two cylinders filling will mimic an erection.
Another option is for a doctor to insert two flexible rods into the penis. This allows you to bend the penis into an upright position when you want to have sex.
As with any surgery, there are benefits and risks that you can discuss with a doctor. They will be able to offer the best advice for your specific circumstances.
Physical activity
Physical activity may also help with ED, and experts recommend at least 40 minutes of aerobic exercise four times per week for positive effects.
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The changes bodies go through during the natural aging process can cause ED.
Blood flow: A sustained erection requires blood flow to the penis. In older age, it is often harder for blood to flow throughout the body, and in males, this can block blood flow to the penis.
Cardiovascular disease: ED is also linked to cardiovascular disease, affecting 70–79% of people ages 60–79 years. This increases to 79–86% of people ages 80 years and above. This is the reason experts consider lack of exercise, obesity, hypertension, and metabolic syndrome to be ED risk factors.
Decreased testosterone: Testosterone levels generally decrease with age, and studies show that testosterone may help promote erections.
What are the most common ED symptoms?
According to the NIDDK, the symptoms of erectile dysfunction include:
being unable to get an erection
being able to get an erection, but not every time you want to have sex
being able to get an erection, but the erection does not last long enough to have sex
How to talk with your doctor about ED
It is understandable that sensitive subjects like ED can feel embarrassing to discuss, but it’s best to contact a doctor or healthcare professional about this type of health topic as soon as possible. Having open lines of communication about all health topics, including sexual health, is important for overall wellness.
Keep in mind that ED is very common and treatable, and healthcare professionals can help you find a solution that suits your needs.
Summary
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is common in older adults, but treatments are available to help this health condition.
Treatments include prescription medications, wearable devices, and important lifestyle adaptations.
Speak with a doctor or healthcare professional to determine the right treatment option for you and your partner’s needs.
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