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Fitness & Health

20th Jul 2021

3 dodgy myths and 3 surprising facts about erectile dysfunction

Ann Cronin

Brought to you by Lloyds Online Doctor

Time to set the record straight…

We’re not always quick to talk about erectile dysfunction (ED) but, given how misunderstood the condition is, we probably should be.

Recent research from Lloyds Online Doctor has shown that 1 in 4 Irish men have experienced erectile dysfunction, yet there are still a lot of misconceptions out there surrounding ED and they’re doing more harm than good.

From causes to treatments, we need to ensure everyone has their facts straight.

With that in mind, we’ve broken down some of the most common myths and need-to-know facts about ED, to help spread awareness of the condition…

Myth 1: Only older men suffer from erectile dysfunction

Not true.

There’s a big misconception that ED is not a young person’s issue. While erectile dysfunction is more common in older men, it can affect anyone at any stage of their life.

Myth 2: Your lifestyle doesn’t have an impact on the condition

Wrong.

Various lifestyle choices can contribute to the condition, including smoking, excessive alcohol consumption and drug use.

There are also some links between obesity and ED, and it’s believed that regular exercise can be a big help when it comes to preventing or treating the issue.

Myth 3: Erectile dysfunction isn’t treatable

Definitely not correct.

There are actually a number of treatment options out there for ED, and the right one for you can depend on the cause. Medication is a common treatment method, as well as counselling and lifestyle changes.

And when it comes to treating the condition, you no longer need to attend face-to-face appointments to access ED medication.

Instead, you should try Lloyds Online Doctor. It’s convenient, discreet AND the service cuts out the need for face-to-face appointments.

Plus, it’s a fraction of the cost of a GP visit. All you have to do is go through a simple online consultation and doctor review. Then, you can either collect and pay for your medication at your nearest LloydsPharmacy, or get your prescription posted straight to your doorstep and bring it into the pharmacy yourself.

Now, on to the facts…

Fact 1: Erectile dysfunction is more common than you’d think

ED is actually a pretty common issue with 1 in 4 Irish men having experienced it.

It’s possible that we think ED is uncommon because not a lot of men are discussing it. The same research showed only half of these men experiencing ED have discussed it with their doctor (55%) or partner (53%). The research also showed that only 14% have discussed it with their family and just 4% have discussed it with their friends.

Fact 2: A number of health conditions are linked to erectile dysfunction

Heart disease, diabetes and metabolic syndrome are just some of the conditions linked to ED. There are also some kinds of medication that can contribute to the condition too.

Fact 3: Erectile dysfunction can be linked with mental health issues

Mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety, can contribute to ED. Relationship issues can also be a factor.

This simple, discreet and convenient service from Lloyds Online Doctor is back. And right now, consultations are half price – just €12.50. So when you need a prescription, but don’t want the hassle or expense of seeing a GP face-to-face, simply log in or register and answer a few simple questions to get started. Prescriptions approved before 4pm weekdays and are available for same-day collection.

For more information on Lloyds Online Doctor, click here

Brought to you by Lloyds Online Doctor