Pain & ED: Two Major Health Concerns for Men & Their Solutions

When we think of men’s health, the first thing that comes to our mind is sexual health. While it is an important aspect, another key concern that often goes unnoticed is chronic pain. Due to their demanding jobs, long working hours, and higher physical tasks, men are more prone to body pain.

Common body pain in men includes back pain and muscle stiffness that can affect their overall health and well-being. At the same time, erectile dysfunction (ED) remains a significant concern, affecting them both mentally and physically. Additionally, though they may seem unrelated, chronic pain and ED often have underlying connections, including stress, poor lifestyle habits, and certain medications.

In this post, we will explore the best treatments for sexual health and pain relief, including doctor-approved medications available online.

Men’s Health Challenges: Chronic Pain And Erectile Dysfunction

Two common health problems for men are body pain and erectile dysfunction. A study by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) suggests that about twenty percent of men suffer from chronic pain. Whereas, about fifty percent of men between the ages of 50 and 70 suffer from some form of ED.

All about Chronic Pain

Chronic pain is persistent pain that lasts for weeks, months, or even years. It can have profound physical and psychological effects, often persisting for a lifetime if left untreated. Some of the causes of chronic pain include:

Fibromyalgia, a condition that causes muscle pain throughout the body

• Arthritis
• Nerve damage
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Back pain

Battling Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction is the inability to achieve or maintain an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. It can result from various factors, such as-

• Mental health issues such as depression and anxiety
• Alcohol consumption and substance use.
• Conditions affecting blood circulation or nerve function
• Injury.
• Men experiencing ED may notice the following symptoms:
• Occasional difficulty getting an erection.
• Inability to maintain an erection during intercourse.
• Complete inability to achieve an erection.
• Needing significant stimulation to sustain an erection.

How to Manage Pain And ED Safely?

Some of the effective ways to manage body pain and erectile dysfunction in men are listed below.

Pain management for men

A pain management plan is designed to help individuals manage different types of pain, whether acute (short-term) or chronic (long-lasting). These plans incorporate various approaches, including-

• Medications - Pain relievers, muscle relaxants, or nerve pain medications.
• Medical Procedures - Injections, nerve blocks, or minimally invasive treatments.
• Therapy - Physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises.
• Complementary Techniques - Acupuncture, massage therapy, and relaxation methods.

Pain management benefits people experiencing moderate to severe pain that lasts a few days or is persistent due to a long-term condition.

Erectile Dysfunction Treatment Options

Erectile dysfunction can have various causes, and treatment depends on the root cause. Doctors aim to improve the cause of the condition, along with improving sexual function through medications, lifestyle, and medical procedures. Choosing the proper ED treatment is a personal decision; however, discussing it with your partner and medical advisor is advisable.

Some of the effective treatment options for ED include-

• Surgical treatment - This is considered in severe cases where other treatment options are ineffective. Surgical options include penile implants and arterial repair that improve blood flow to the penis, particularly in younger men.
• Vacuum Erectile Devices (VEDs) - They help induce an erection by bringing blood into the penis using a vacuum pump.
• Counseling - In cases where ED is linked to mental health conditions such as anxiety or stress, counseling may be recommended. A counselor can help individuals or couples address emotional concerns and improve sexual confidence.
• Medications - The use of PDE5 inhibitors can help improve erectile function by increasing blood flow to the penis. These oral medications are commonly prescribed and can help in achieving and maintaining an erection.

Link Between Pain And Stress-Related ED

Body pain and ED are closely related, as both these conditions can affect the physical, mental, and emotional health of the person. A 2023 study suggests that patients with chronic pain often experience significant sexual dysfunction, including a lack of interest in sexual activity and reduced satisfaction with their sex lives. Additionally, persistent pain can lead to high levels of stress, depression, and anxiety, which can further negatively affect sexual function.

How does pain affect testosterone levels?

Suffering from chronic pain can affect the testosterone levels in men. A 2011 study suggests persistent pain can cause excessive stress on the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. Such stress can affect the secretion of testosterone.

Doctor-Recommended Treatments For Pain & ED

Most doctor-recommended treatments for pain and erectile dysfunction focus on addressing the underlying causes.

Safe Pain Relief For Men

Several medications are available for pain relief, but the best treatments include Tapentadol, Pregabalin, and Carisoprodol. These medications offer effective relief from moderate to severe acute and chronic pain.

Over-the-counter pain relief for men includes ibuprofen, acetaminophen (paracetamol), and aspirin, which help manage headaches, joint pain, and inflammation.

Tapentadol Pain Medication

Tapentadol is a dual-action pain reliever that works as both an opioid and a norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, making it highly effective for conditions such as diabetic neuropathy, chronic lower back pain, and post-surgical pain.

Tapentadol is marketed under different brands, including Aspadol, Tapaday, and Topcynta. These oral tablets are available in two formulations, allowing better pain management based on the severity and duration of pain.

• Tapentadol Immediate Release (IR) Tablets- These tablets work within 30 minutes to offer effective pain relief. It is ideal for treating acute pain that requires multiple dosing throughout the day.
• Tapentadol Extended Release (ER) tablets- This is formulated for long-lasting pain relief, releasing the medication gradually over an extended period. It is best suited for chronic pain conditions that require consistent, around-the-clock pain control.

Pregabalin Medication

Pregabalin, available under the Nervigesic brand, is widely used for nerve-related pain. It belongs to the anticonvulsant drug class and calms overactive nerve signals. Pregabalin is effective for managing conditions such as neuropathy and fibromyalgia. Apart from managing body pain, the use of pregabalin tablets is also recommended for controlling seizures.

Carisoprodol

Carisoprodol is a muscle relaxant to manage pain and discomfort caused by muscle injuries, spasms, or strains. It is a skeletal muscle relaxer that affects the communication between nerves in the central nervous system, producing a calming effect that helps muscles relax.

It is commonly sold under brand names like Pain O Soma and Soma Dol. Carisoprodol is prescribed for short-term use due to its potential for dependence or abuse.

Best ED medications for men’s health

Most erectile dysfunction treatment options belong to the class of PDE5 inhibitors (phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors). These drugs work by relaxing blood vessels, increasing circulation to the penile area in response to sexual stimulation.

The top prescribed ED medications include Sildenafil (generic Viagra), Tadalafil (generic Cialis), and Vardenafil (generic Levitra).

Sildenafil

Sildenafil is the first FDA-approved medication for erectile dysfunction. Its action works within 30 minutes and lasts for about 4 hours. Due to its proven efficacy and safety, Sildenafil is the most widely used ED medication. It is also prescribed for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) under the brand name Revatio. Other brand names of Sildenafil include Malegra, Aurogra, and Cenforce.

Tadalafil

Tadalafil is a widely used medication for erectile dysfunction (ED) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a condition that causes enlargement of the prostate gland. It is an affordable erectile dysfunction pill that has the most extended duration of action. Its effects last up to 36 hours, allowing for spontaneous sexual activity. Tadalafil is available under the brand name Tadalista, Cialis, and Vidalista.

Vardenafil

One of the safe medications for erectile dysfunction is Vardenafil. Approved by the FDA in 2003, it emerged as an alternative to Sildenafil, providing similar efficacy but with a slightly longer duration. Tadalafil is a more potent ED medication and thus works at a much lower dosage strength. It is also more effective for men suffering from diabetes-related ED.

Vardenafil is available under the brand name Levitra, Vilitra, and Vitara.

Natural Ways To Improve Men’s Health

Apart from the medically approved treatment options mentioned above, here are some practical and holistic treatments for pain and ED.

Exercise & Physical Activity

Regular physical activity strengthens muscles, improves flexibility, and enhances circulation, reducing pain and better sexual health. Strength train at least three to four times a week. Also, include yoga and pelvic floor exercises that can help with erectile function.

Herbal Remedies

Several herbs and natural supplements have been used for centuries to manage pain and enhance sexual health. Some of them include-

• Ashwagandha - It helps reduce stress, boost testosterone, and improve endurance.
• Ginseng - These improve erectile function by enhancing blood circulation.
• Rosemary essential oil - A 2013 study suggests that rosemary can help with headaches, muscle and bone pain.
• Eucalyptus oil - A 2022 study found that inhaling eucalyptus oil helped relieve pain and improve the quality of life in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis.

Heat and Cold Therapy for Pain Relief

Using heat and cold therapy is an effective alternative pain management for men. Heat therapy helps relieve pain by improving blood circulation, reducing muscle stiffness, and easing conditions like low back pain, osteoarthritis, and menstrual cramps. Studies suggest that heat wraps and heating pads can effectively soothe sore muscles.

Erectile Dysfunction And Lifestyle Changes

Some of the practical lifestyle changes recommended for improving ED include-

Avoid smoking

Studies suggest that smoking can damage blood circulation, reduce the secretion of nitric oxide (NO), and also reduce elastin in the arteries. Research indicates that current smokers have a 51% higher risk of ED compared to non-smokers, while former smokers still face a 29% increased risk.

Manage Body Weight

Excess weight and obesity are major risk factors for erectile dysfunction. Research indicates a strong link between a higher body mass index (BMI) and an increased likelihood of developing ED.

Limit Alcohol Use

Chronic or excessive alcohol consumption can impair sexual function by affecting the central nervous system, blood circulation, and hormone balance. These are crucial for maintaining healthy erections, potentially leading to ED.

Eat Healthy

Consuming heart-healthy foods like leafy greens, berries, nuts, and fatty fish helps boost nitric oxide production, essential for strong erections. Additionally, zinc and magnesium in lean meats, seeds, and whole grains support testosterone levels and overall sexual function. Limiting processed foods and excessive sugar intake can prevent obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular issues, all of which are linked to ED.

Where to Buy Trusted Medications for Pain And ED?

When purchasing medications for pain relief and erectile dysfunction online, it is crucial to choose a reliable and licensed pharmacy to ensure safety, authenticity, and quality. With increasing online platforms, distinguishing between genuine and unverified sources can be challenging.

Vedicare Health is a trusted online store for pain and ED meds among the reputable online pharmacies. They prioritize customer safety, ensuring all products are sourced from legitimate manufacturers and meet industry standards. Additionally, Vedicare Health is known for its transparent service and professional customer support, making it a reliable choice. Vedicare also ensures discreet shipping for men’s health medications, allowing them to receive their ED treatments with complete privacy and confidentiality. Additionally, they provide fast delivery for pain and ED medications.