Erectile dysfunction woes

Question : I AM 43 years of age with no major health problems. Each time I have sex with my wife, it only lasts three minutes or less. Please advise. Answer : YOU may be experiencing erectile dysfunction (ED). It is the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficiently rigid for sexual intercourse, ejaculation or both. Sexual drive and the ability to have an orgasm are not necessarily affected. Any disorder that causes injury to the nerves or impairs blood flow in the penis has the potential to cause ED. ED may be the side-effect of certain medications such as blood pressure drugs, antihistamines, antidepressants, tranquillisers, appetite suppressants, and cimetidine (an ulcer drug). Surgery and injury to the penis, spinal cord, prostate, bladder and pelvis may also lead to ED. Stress and work pressure may aggravate erectile dysfunction. Herbs that improve blood circulation to the penis may enhance sexual performance. Horny goat weed, puncture vine, ginkgo, muira puama, withania, ginseng and damiana invigorate vital energy and improve the general well-being of men and women. A combination of these helps improve libido and enhance sexual performance by increasing blood flow and oxygen to the genital areas, improving the release of nitric oxide in men, relaxing the spongy tissue in the penis and promoting blood flow. You should exercise regularly, have adequate rest and avoid alcohol and smoking. Stress management is very important. Some of the relaxation techniques such as aromatherapy, yoga and meditation may be beneficial. Eat a healthy diet high in fibre but less in refined carbohydrates and red meat.