The emotional and physical symptoms of stress can have a devastating impact on your life. It has been shown that chronic stress weakens the heart, increases blood pressure, disrupts the digestive system, and can cause depression and anxiety. With all of this in mind, is it really a surprise that stress would affect the quality of your erections? The erectile process involves signals flowing from the brain to stimulate blood flow in response, but stress can interrupt this communication between your mind and body, leaving you psychologically aroused but without an erection. An overwhelming amount of stress can be triggered by a number of factors. There is pressure from work, psychological issues like anxiety or low self-esteem leading to more serious conditions such as depression; there are also traumatic events, such as financial problems, that give us severe stress. If you think stress might be the cause of your ED, talk with a healthcare provider and discuss how it’s affecting other aspects of life.
How to Treat Stress Related ED
If stress or high-stress events are the cause of your ED, there are many strategies to help reduce it.
One of the best options for alleviating stress is through talk therapy, whether it’s personal counseling or couples’ sessions; exploring different approaches can help you find healthier means for dealing with any stress or anxieties you may be having.
You may find that making lifestyle changes improves your mental and physical well-being. These include cutting back on the amount of tobacco or alcohol you consume, getting more exercise each day by walking (or even taking up yoga), practicing mindful thinking techniques like meditation which can help reduce stress levels while also enhancing erectile function through improved blood flow at rest.
You should discuss these options with a doctor if they are unfamiliar territory for anyone who has frequent trouble achieving an erection during sex because there could be other underlying health conditions causing it – but this does not need to stop them altogether.
Exercise is an incredible way to not only lower stress levels, but also help reduce symptoms of ED. Staying physically active can bolster testosterone levels, provide an emotional boost, increase self-confidence, and reduce depression. All of these factors have been shown to improve sexual health in men.
High-fat and processed foods should be avoided in order to lower stress levels and a strive for a healthier libido. Adding more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your daily diet is the best way to improve your mood, and therefore your sexual performance and intimacy. The time it takes to see improvement in erectile health after adjusting diet varies for every individual. Some people may experience noticeable changes within weeks, while others only notice minor changes over a few months.
Many men will increase tobacco and alcohol use during stressful times, but this only increases stress levels and lowers libido. Alcohol is actually a depressant, which means that if you are drinking regularly or heavily then both your libido and your mood are going to be down. Regular tobacco use causes the chemicals found within cigarette smoke to injure the lining of your blood vessels and damage the function of your heart, lungs, and yes, your erectile health. However, quitting smoking can improve symptoms for those with erectile dysfunction.
If stress reduction is not enough to resolve your ED, you still have options.
There are plenty of prescription options for treating erectile dysfunction if you can’t, or don’t want to, go the natural route. Two of the most common medications for ED are Sildenafil and Tadalafil, which come in pill form for oral consumption. Sildenafil and Tadalafil are the generic versions of Viagra and Cialis, which means you can have all the same benefits of a name-brand prescription without paying the high price. There is no chemical difference between the name-brand or the generic version- the only difference is how much you pay for your prescription.
Stress is unavoidable, but it does not have to be a debilitating force in your life. You can take proactive measures to lower stress levels that may contribute to ED by adopting healthy habits and engaging in self-care strategies you enjoy. Erectile dysfunction is not something that should go unmentioned; instead of shying away from this tough topic with embarrassment or shame, it is time to learn all about erectile dysfunction so you will know what it means for your health. When it comes to erectile dysfunction, you have options for treatment. It can be difficult to keep your sex life alive when you’re experiencing ED, but do not delay in talking with a healthcare provider. They will help find the solution that is right for you and resolve other health problems before they become bigger than what should be happening.
Starting a PrEP prescription can feel like a daunting process. There are many steps that need to come before you are actually able to take your first dose- including taking an HIV test and making an appointment to consult with a healthcare provider. Problems can arise- you may not have time to go see your healthcare provider, maybe you struggle with finding an HIV test kit, or maybe your insurance will not help cover the prescription. Fortunately, there are ways to simplify the process.
First…what is PrEP?
PrEP stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis, and it is a safe and reliable way to prevent the spread of HIV — it is up to 99% effective when taken as prescribed. PrEP is for those who are HIV negative, and have partners who are HIV positive, or partners who have an unknown HIV status. PrEP is a prescription pill that must be taken daily in order to offer the most protection.
Reducing HIV Starts at Home
Despite knowing how to reduce the spread of HIV, a staggering 38,000 Americans become HIV positive every year. The key to eliminating HIV is by knowing your HIV status. Many people believe they do not have access to testing, or they are unwilling to get tested, which means they are risking their lives without even knowing it. 1 out of 7 Americans with the virus do not know they carry it, and half of teens and young adults are also not aware they are HIV positive- these statistics show HIV is continuing to be passed along.
The number of new HIV infections in America is alarming, but it can be reduced by making sure that all those who are at risk get tested. We know there can be anxieties that come up with testing, and that is why we at TIN Rx provide free at-home testing kits. HIV testing is done by looking for HIV antibodies in either the blood or saliva. Our testing kits are mailed directly to your door with clear instructions on how to use them and send them back to us. Once your results come back negative, you are able to take the next step to start your PrEP prescription.
What Does a PrEP Prescription look like?
PrEP is a daily medication, so it is important to hold yourself accountable when it comes to staying on schedule. If taken every day, PrEP is 99% effective at preventing HIV. In order to remember to take your prescription, we recommend creating reminders on your phone, setting alarms, or keeping your prescription bottle in sight. It is crucial to stay motivated to stay safe.
While on PrEP, you will want to make sure to check-in with your healthcare provider every three months to re-test for HIV and make sure your kidneys are functioning properly.
What Should I Consider?
There are a few things to consider before beginning your PrEP prescription. It’s important to remember it is okay to open up and seek support. In the event that you are feeling lost or confused about this process, seek out a trusted friend for support. Whether it’s someone in your family who has been there before or an experienced mentor – any person can be helpful when navigating through prescription options and their associated processes. And, of course, our team at TIN Rx would love nothing more than to help provide clarity and advice- so do not hesitate to reach out if assistance is needed!
Something else to consider about a PrEP prescription is that while it protects against HIV, it does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections, or STIs. Condom use is still recommended to protect the sexual health of yourself and your partners.
It is also important to stay motivated about your sexual health and keep planning ahead. Scheduling your check-ins and testing ahead of time can help keep your prescription organized and simple.
Ready to start?
The future of HIV prevention is now. A PrEP regimen can transform the way we protect ourselves from this disease and it has never been easier than right now to get started with your prescription for this life-saving medication. It may take time and effort to prioritize your sexual health and safety, but it is definitely worth it. Starting a PrEP prescription protects you, but also any partner of yours as well.
We all want a healthy, beautiful complexion that will make us look and feel great. But what do you need to know in order to get the most out of your skincare routine? What is the best way for you to take care of your skin type? We are here to guide you through everything from cleansers and moisturizers to toners and facials, so that no matter what your skin type or preferences are, you can find something perfect for you!
The search for the perfect skincare routine can be overwhelming. You have probably read about all kinds of different beauty trends, but maybe you are still not sure how to find products that work well with your skin type or needs. Maybe you have acne problems or struggle with dryness or sensitivity. The right skincare routine is essential for every skin type. The best way to find your perfect match? Understand what lies beneath!
What should be part of your Daily Routine?
Skincare can be broken up into four main steps: cleansing, toning, moisturizing, and protecting.
Cleansing is the first crucial step in a solid skincare routine. Oils, dirt, dead skin cells, and even air pollution particles collect in and around your pores, so the first step in any skincare routine should be removing them and starting on a clean slate. It is also important to remember to wash your face both in the morning and at night because these particles can accumulate overnight as well as during the day.
Toning can be a way to keep your skin looking and feeling its best. Toner helps balance the composition of our naturally occurring oils while replenishing what gets washed away with dirt or makeup every day. Toners should be added to your nightly skin regime unless the product says otherwise. Toners can be added with serums, eye cream, or peels.
Moisturizer is important for everyone, no matter what your skin type is. Moisturizers work to maintain hydration in your skin, but also keep your pores safe from clogging with excess oils.
You might not think that sunscreen is necessary when it’s sunny and warm outside, but you should always be sure to protect your skin from the sun. Non-irritating SPF 30 or higher will provide adequate coverage for outdoor activities in susceptible areas. Too much exposure can result in dry skin, premature wrinkles, hyper-pigmentation, and even cancer.
So what ingredients should you look for?
One of the most important steps in maintaining your youthfulness is to protect and nourish skin with anti-aging ingredients like retinol. It can help slow down the appearance of aging, improve already developed wrinkles and fine lines, while also removing dead cells that cause acne outbreaks or blackheads. Retinol is a key component in anti-aging.
Hyaluronic Acid is naturally derived hydration. There are many different forms of hyaluronic acid, so it is possible to have multiple types in one product. Because hyaluronic acid has the ability to deeply penetrate the skin, it can deliver long-lasting moisturization for healthier, glowing skin.
Vitamin C is the ultimate immune system booster! It is often sourced from citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, or lemons. In skincare, it helps protect your cells against free radical damage which makes you healthier with a brightened complexion-and even protects against sunburns!
We all want to know and understand what our skin needs. The right routine can make a huge difference in your complexion, so it’s important to remember that there is no one size fits all approach when it comes to skincare. It is time to start listening to your skin and give your complexion the extra attention it deserves.
The leaves are changing, pumpkin spice lattes are in full swing, and the air is getting cooler. You know what that means? The seasons are changing, and Fall is finally here! With each new season comes an opportunity to change in mindset. Fall is beginning, and we think now is the perfect time to fall into some healthier habits for this new season. Setting goals now can help us prepare for the winter months, and even prepare us to embrace the new year in a few short months.
Set your Goals
Do you want to improve your mental health? Do you want to hit the gym more often during the week, or make sure you have a healthy meal plan? The key to setting goals is to be realistic and specific. Instead of saying to yourself “I’m going to drink more water,” make an attainable and specific goal of drinking 11-15 cups per day. If you are looking to improve your mental health, then specific milestones can help you reach your goal. Commit to spending two hours a week in nature, do three acts of self-care every weekend, or make an appointment to talk to a therapist every two weeks.
You are more likely to stay on track with your goals if you write them down and get vocal about them. Write in your daily journal, make notes on your calendar, and tell your support system about your plans.
Think Ahead
Where do you want this season to lead you? What plans do you want to strive for beyond now, and into the coming seasons? Maybe if you struggle with the winter blues, then you can use the next couple of months to prepare and plan. Start a Vitamin D supplement routine to combat any deficiencies that can come with the shorter days. Consider how you will grow through this season and how that growth will help you handle the coming seasons.
Embrace any Difficulties
There may be some roadblocks that pop up but preparing for them can help lower stress levels and make them feel easier to handle. There may be days where binging Netflix sounds better than going walking, or maybe work will pick up and life will be busier than normal. It is important to be prepared and know how you will handle the situation ahead of time. If work is busy, then make plans to have a de-stress night (or two) each week. Treat yourself to your favorite healthy meal, watch your favorite movie, or be available to visit with loved ones.
Be Strict with Yourself
Keeping your goals may require setting a few strict boundaries for yourself. If your goals revolve around a set schedule, then set daily reminders on your phone, keep your routine consistent, and commit to your plans. Set your workout clothes in sight, keep an alarm to take your birth control, PrEP, or vitamins at the same time every day, or use a water bottle that has timed goals written on the side.
What is your Motivation?
One way to help you stick with your new healthy habits is to remind yourself why you chose to start them. Dropping unhealthy or damaging habits and embracing new, positive habits can actually challenge your comfort zone. Finding your stride in new habits can make anyone feel a little lost at first, and that is why it is important to remember why you want to make these positive changes. Give yourself some extra encouragement with a new mantra to help you power through any doubt or lack of motivation.
There is no need to wait until the end of this year to start some new, healthy habits- the beginning of this new season is a perfect time to make some changes! Set goals, seek out a support network, be consistent, and remember to be patient with yourself. Healthy habits are formed gradually and will most likely come with setbacks, but these are manageable with the right motivation and preparation.
Statistics show that erectile dysfunction is becoming a more widespread problem in the United States. In fact, the National Institutes of Health estimates that over 30 million men in the US have ED. That is 1 in 10 men, and comparable to the population of Texas! And it is not just an issue for older guys; half of all men 40 and over report some degree of erectile dysfunction. The good news is there are things you can do to prevent this from happening. We’ve compiled 5 important factors for preventing ED – statistics and tips below!
1. Exercise Consistently
Exercise is an incredible way to not only boost your circulatory system and increase blood flow through the whole body, but also help reduce symptoms of erectile dysfunction. A Harvard study found that just 30 minutes a day could cut down on the risk for ED by 41%. In addition, other research suggests maintaining moderate exercise may be able to restore sexual performance in obese middle-aged men with ED. Staying physically active can bolster testosterone levels, provide an emotional boost, increase self-confidence, and reduce depression. All of these factors have been shown to improve sexual health in men.
Aerobic exercises are a great option for men looking to increase their sexual performance. Swimming, walking, and running will all boost blood flow by increasing circulation, which may help maintain stronger erections.
2. Watch Your Diet
Most men already know a diet high in fatty foods can lead to heart health issues, but most do not consider how the decreased circulation from poor diet will cause erectile health problems. High-fat and processed foods like fried chicken or sugary cereals should be avoided for a healthier libido. Adding more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your daily diet is the best way to improve sexual performance and increase intimacy. The Mediterranean diet is one that many have found success within reducing erection difficulties due to its ability to reduce blood pressure and improve heart health.
The time it takes to see improvement in erectile health after adjusting diet varies for every individual. Some people may experience noticeable changes within weeks, while others only notice minor changes over a few months.
3. Keep Alcohol to a Minimum
Some may think a drink or two before intimacy will only decrease “bedroom nerves.” However, regular to heavy alcohol consumption can actually lead to decreased sexual performance. Alcohol is a depressant which means that if you are drinking heavily then your libido and mood are going to be down too! A study by the University of Washington has shown sober men are able to achieve erections more quickly than those that have been drinking. This is because intoxication slows down or interrupts signals between the brain and body, resulting in erectile dysfunction. Drinking in moderation is key, but moderation depends on the individual. The CDC recommends men should limit their consumption to two or less drinks per day.
4. Quit Smoking
While erectile dysfunction typically becomes more prevalent among men as they grow older, recent studies confirm this condition can also occur earlier on if there has been ample exposure to cigarette smoke. Many people don’t realize that heavy smokers, even at a younger age, have a much higher chance of developing ED. The chemicals in cigarette smoke injure the lining of your blood vessels and damage the function of your heart, lungs, and yes, erectile health. However, quitting smoking can improve symptoms for those with erectile dysfunction. The severity and age of onset will determine how well they recover from it.
5. Get Adequate Sleep
It is commonly known that sleep can negatively affect a person’s mental and physical health. A recent study has shown how irregular or inadequate sleeping patterns may lead to testosterone levels dropping, which could then cause not just lower libido, but also weaker erections. A few sleepless nights will most likely not contribute to erectile dysfunction, but an ongoing lack of rest may be the cause of more serious problems down the road. Sleep disorders such as insomnia and obstructive sleep apnea are both linked with erectile dysfunction in men due to their interference with sexual arousal. The National Sleep Foundation recommends healthy adults should aim to have 7-9 hours of sleep per night.
What can you do when your lifestyle is too busy for exercise? Maybe things just don’t seem to be going well with quitting smoking. Or maybe you have tried all of the tips above and still struggle with erectile dysfunction. What are your options?
There are plenty of prescription options for treating erectile dysfunction if you can’t, or don’t want to, go the natural route. Two of the most common medications for ED are Sildenafil and Tadalafil, which come in pill form for oral consumption. Sildenafil and Tadalafil are the generic versions of Viagra and Cialis, which means you can have all the same benefits of a name-brand prescription without paying the price. There is no chemical difference between the name-brand or the generic version- the only difference is how much you pay for your prescription!
Erectile dysfunction isn’t something that should just go unmentioned; instead of shying away from this tough topic with embarrassment or shame, learn all about erectile dysfunction so you’ll know what it means for your relationship as well as how best to avoid developing symptoms yourself! When it comes to erectile dysfunction, you have options. We offer generic Sildenafil and Tadalafil for those struggling with ED.
Recent Comments