Male sexual problems

It's estimated 1 in 10 men has a problem related to having sex, such as premature ejaculation or erectile dysfunction. Find out more through the links below.  
Sexual problems can affect any man, whether he is straight, gay, bisexual or transgender.

Erectile dysfunction (impotence)

This is when a man can't get, or keep, an erection. Most men experience it at some time in their life, and the causes can be physical or psychological.
Physical causes include heart disease, diabetes and raised blood pressure. Alcohol, smoking and illegal drugs, as well as some prescription medicines, can also cause erectile problems.
Worries about work, money, your relationship, family, and even worrying about not getting an erection can all be factors

Premature ejaculation

This is when a man ejaculates (comes) sooner than he wants to during sex. It's only a problem if it bothers him or his partner.
Causes can include anxiety about sexual performance, stress, unresolved issues in a relationship, or depression.
You can see your GP or a psychosexual therapist for help.

Loss of sex drive

Losing your sex drive, or libido, is common. It can be linked to a number of factors, including relationship issues, stress, anxiety and side effects of medication.
There is help available. Talk to your GP, or get in touch with the Sexual Advice Association.
Find out more about loss of libido.

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Female Sexual Problems Causes

The causes of sexual problems are as varied and complex as the human race. Some problems stem from a simple, reversible physical problem. Others can stem from more serious medical conditions, difficult life situations, or emotional problems. Still others have a combination of causes. Any of the following can contribute to sexual problems:

• Relationship problems: Discord in other aspects of the relationship, such as distribution of labor, childrearing, or money, can cause sexual problems. Issues of control or even abuse in the relationship are especially harmful to sexual harmony. Such problems can prevent a woman from communicating her sexual wants and needs to her partner.
• Emotional problems: Depression, anxiety (about sex or other things), stress, resentment, and guilt can all affect a woman's sexual function.
• Insufficient stimulation: A woman's (or her partner's) lack of knowledge about sexual stimulation and response may prevent a woman from achieving a satisfactory experience. Poor communication between partners can also be a culprit here.
• Gynecologic problems: A number of pelvic disorders can cause pain in intercourse and thus decrease satisfaction.

• • Vaginal dryness: The most common reason for this in younger women is insufficient stimulation. In older women, the decrease in estrogen that occurs in perimenopause or menopause is the cause of vaginal dryness. Poor lubrication can also be linked to hormone imbalances and other illnesses and to certain medications. It can inhibit arousal or make intercourse uncomfortable.
  • Vaginismus: This is a painful spasm of the muscles surrounding the vaginal opening that causes the vaginal opening to "tighten." It can prevent penetration or make penetration extremely painful. Vaginismus can be caused by injuries or scars from surgery, abuse, or childbirth, by infection, or by irritation from douches, spermicides, or condoms. It can also be caused by fear.
  • Sexually transmitted diseases: Gonorrhea, herpes, genital warts, chlamydia, and syphilis are infectious diseases spread by sexual contact. They can cause changes in the genitals that make sex uncomfortable or even painful.
  • Vaginitis: Inflammation and irritation of vaginal tissues due to infection or other causes can make intercourse uncomfortable or painful.
  • Endometriosis, pelvic mass, ovarian cyst, surgical scars: Any of these can cause an obstruction or anatomical changes that prevent intercourse or make it difficult or painful.
  • Pelvic inflammatory disease: This is an infection of the vagina that moves up into the cervix, uterus, and ovaries. It can be very painful on its own and make intercourse extremely painful.
  • Nerve damage after surgery: Unavoidable cutting of small nerves during pelvic surgery (such as hysterectomy) may decrease sensation and response.
• Physical conditions: Many physical or medical conditions can decrease a woman's satisfaction with her sex life.
  • Tiredness (fatigue)
  • Chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, liver disease, kidney disease
  • Cancer
  • Neurologic disorders
  • Vascular (blood flow) disorders
  • Hormonal imbalances
  • Menopause
  • Pregnancy
  • Alcohol or drug abuse
• Medications: Certain medications can reduce desire or arousal. One well-known group of drugs that have this effect are the selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) group of antidepressants, which includes drugs such as Prozac and Zoloft. Others include certain chemotherapy drugs, drugs for high blood pressure, and antipsychotic medications.
• Other medical treatments: Treatments such as radiation therapy for certain types of cancer can reduce vaginal lubrication. They can also make skin and the membranes lining the genitals tender and sensitive.
• History of abuse: A woman who has suffered sexual or other abuse may have trouble trusting her partner enough to relax and become aroused. She may have feelings of fear, guilt, or resentment that get in the way of a satisfactory experience, even if she cares deeply about her current partner.
• Attitudes toward sex: Many people, either because of the way they were brought up or because of earlier bad experiences, don't view sex as a normal and enjoyable part of a couple's relationship. They may associate sex or sexual feelings with shame, guilt, fear, or anger. On the other hand are people who have unrealistic expectations about sex. Portrayals of sex in television and movies as always easy and fantastic mislead some people into believing that is how it is in real life. These people are disappointed or even distressed when sex is sometimes not earth-shattering or when a problem occurs.
• Sexual problems of the partner: If a woman's partner has sexual problems, such as impotence or lack of desire, this can inhibit her own satisfaction. Continue Reading

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How to Improve Your Memory in 5 Easy Steps (1/5)

Finding it difficult to remember names and faces, or even where you set your keys? Find out how to improve your memory—naturally—with these five expert-approved strategies.

1. A good night’s sleep can improve your memory

Wondering how to improve your memory? It starts with plenty of rest. Try going to bed 30 minutes earlier than you normally would tonight, and then every following night until you find you’re getting the amount of sleep your body needs. A large body of evidence supports the role of sleep in consolidating, cementing, and even restoring our memories.

2. Clear your mind

Before you engage in a task or activity in which you need to remember new information, close your eyes, empty your mind and practice deep breathing for at least 2 minutes. The deep breathing helps clear your mind and lower your stress hormones, both of which, studies find, can enhance your brain’s ability to absorb new information.

3. Train your brain to pay attention

When you receive new information you need to remember, tune out everything else and stay actively focused on the facts. Giving a subject your full attention helps it “stick” in your memory.

4. Take memory-boosting herbal supplements

Begin taking 60 to 80 milligrams of ginkgo biloba 2 or 3 times a day. If you’re taking a test of any sort that requires you to draw on your memory to recall facts and figures, take a dose of 120 to 180 milligrams one or two hours beforehand. Ginkgo is a potent antioxidant and one of the most important herbs in our arsenal when it comes to memory and learning. If ginkgo alone doesn’t do it for you, try adding 75 milligrams of the Chinese herb dang shen (Codonopsis pilosula), which one study found improved memory more than ginkgo alone.

5. Drink coffee

Drink one or two cups of caffeinated coffee a day. Studies find that coffee—more likely, the caffeine it contains—improves alertness and some forms of memory. Population studies even show lower levels of Alzheimer’s disease in people who drink coffee.

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10 Ways to Relieve and Prevent Joint Pain

 Tips for avoiding the pain of strain on joints in the knees, hips and more

Your joints endure an incredible amount of stress. They connect your bones, support your weight and above all, allow you to move. Though your joints are designed to cope with all of the stress you place on them, sometimes they suffer from wear and tear, and the resulting joint pain, otherwise known as arthralgia, can be extremely uncomfortable.

Joint pain (such as in your knees and hips) can be caused by a number of different factors, which range from wounds, trauma, disease, strains and sprains, bursitis, tendonitis or even osteoporosis. Arthritis can also cause joint pain, but it is important to remember that joint pain often differs from person to person. There are, however, a number of things you can do to temporarily alleviate the pain, as well as prevent it.

1. Ice therapy (cryotherapy)

Cold temperatures reduce blood flow, and therefore reduce tissue swelling. The first time you experience pain, apply an ice pack on the affected area every hour for the majority of the day for a duration of 15 minutes. The next day, apply the ice only four or five times, still for 15 minutes. This process is vital for joint pain relief. Remember, to avoid ice burns, do not place the ice directly on the skin, and instead wrap it in a towel or washcloth.

2. Hydrotherapy

Warm water will ease pressure on joints and muscles, so a nice warmth bath can do wonders for alleviating joint pain in your knees and hips. Immerse the affected area in the water and massage it in order to stimulate blood flow.

3. Massage

A massage is an excellent means by which to relieve joint pain in your knees and hips. Either have it done professionally, or do it at home. If you are doing it on your own, try massaging the affected area with a topical menthol rub to help ease the pain. In addition, remember when massaging your body, the direction of your strokes should always be toward the heart.

4. Medications

Certain medicines, such as ibuprofen, are great for joint pain relief. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs will aid in relieving joint swelling and stiffness, and prescribed muscle relaxants can help in reducing muscle spasms.

5. Natural mixtures

Natural herbal mixtures, such as herbal teas, are an excellent means by which to alleviate as well as prevent knee, hip and other joint pains.

6. Exercise

When selecting an exercise, choose one that allows you to move within the limits of your pain and does not cause further pain to the joints (such as your knees). That said, sometimes joint pain can be relived by minor exercise and stretching. However, and this is rather key, exercise can increase the strength and flexibility of your joints, thus preventing potential joint pain.

7. Physical therapy

A physical therapist specializes in human movement, and would be able to aid you greatly with relieving your joint pain.

8. Alternative medical treatments

Alternative medical practices such as acupuncture and Bikram yoga can not only enhance the range of movement of your joints, but also help alleviate pain and prevent it.

9. Immobilize the area

If the pain is too great, attempt to immobilize the area with a splint or brace. This should not be done in all cases, but only if the pain of movement is too great to bear.

10. Rest

One of the best ways of alleviating joint pain is to get plenty of rest and relaxation. This will restore energy, as well as allow the body to repair itself naturally. Furthermore, resting in between periods of exercise will allow your body to cope with the demands being made on it, thus preventing potential joint pain.

If you are suffering from joint pain, it is absolutely vital that you schedule an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible in order to properly assess and alleviate your joint pain.

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Headaches

Headaches are a common problem and can sometimes indicate other conditions. We look at the causes and treatments to help you.

What is a headache?

Headaches involve mild to severe pain in one or more parts of the head as well as the back of the neck.

There are many different types of headache, with different patterns of pain and other related symptoms, and a variety of causes.

While painful and annoying, the majority of headaches are not a sign of a serious disorder and, if they are not a persistent problem, may be relieved by simple medicines and/or changes in lifestyle.

What causes headaches?

There is no single cause of headaches. A number of causes have been identified which fall into two general categories.

Tension headache

This type of headache results from contraction of head and neck muscles.

It is the most common form of headache and accounts for 70 per cent of headaches.

It can occur in people of either sex and at any age, but it's most common in adults and adolescents.

Tension headache usually occurs in isolated incidents but can become chronic for some people.

Possible causes of muscle contraction associated with tension headaches include:

• stress
• fatigue
• poor posture
• eye strain
• sensory overstimulation – loud noise, bright sunshine etc
• tobacco and alcohol use
• in women, hormonal changes occurring before and after a menstrual period.

Migraine headache

Migraine is the cause of 20 per cent of all headaches.
The underlying problem that leads to migraines is still not clear but several theories exist.
They are probably the result of a series of complex changes in the nerves, blood vessels and chemical signalling within the brain.
Migraine is usually experienced as a throbbing pain on one side of the head with an associated feeling of sickness and sensitivity to light and sound. However there are various types of migraine. The main ones are the following.

• Migraine with aura: an aura is a warning symptom or sign that develops before the headache itself. Auras include flashing lights and visual changes, and neck stiffness. One in three people with migraine have auras.
• Migraine without aura.
• Migraine without headache. Although migraines are a type of headache, some people find they get all the other symptoms, especially an aura but no headache develops.

Migraines are known to affect more women than men and are often chronic. In extreme cases they may totally disrupt a person's daily life.
Below are some of the factors that have been identified as being associated with migraines:

• family history of migraine
• prolonged muscle tension and stress
• alcohol use
• smoking or exposure to tobacco smoke
• lack of sleep
• for women, menstrual periods and the use of oral contraceptives
• certain foods such as chocolate, nuts and fermented or pickled condiments, as well as foods containing the amino acid tyramine (aged cheese, red wine, smoked fish) and foods containing preservatives and artificial sweeteners are linked to migraine. It was thought they might contain chemicals that could trigger a migraine, but other research suggests that one of the early symptoms of a migraine might be a craving for foods such as these.

What are the symptoms of tension and migraine headaches?

Tension headache

• Pain is often felt in the generalised area of the head and neck as opposed to on one side.
• Pain may also be situated in the back of the head and neck and feel like a 'tight band'.
• Sometimes accompanied by muscle tightness in back of neck.
• Of relatively short duration if treated in time.

Migraine headache

Migraines tend to follow five stages.

• A prodromal stage: this comes before the headache (often hours or even days before) and varies from person to person. Prodromal symptoms include generally feeling unwell, low mood, extremely tired, changes in appetite, craving certain foods, yawning and temperature changes in the extremities (such as hot ears or a cold nose). Many people with long standing migraine can recognise their prodromal stage even if they can't fully describe what they feel is wrong.
• Aura: about one in three people get an aura – a warning symptom just before the headache starts which lasts 10 to 15 minutes. These aura often include visual symptoms such as flashing lights.
• Headache.
• Resolution: symptoms gradually fade. Sleep can help this.
• Postdromal or recovery: many people recognise certain symptoms once the headache has gone, especially exhaustion but sometimes hunger too.

When should you consult a doctor?

Most people with isolated tension headaches usually manage to control their symptoms with over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatories, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, or simple self-treatment such as relaxation and sleep.
However, those with chronic headaches should be checked out by their GP to consider possible causes and prevention.
If any of the below symptoms are present your GP should be contacted immediately.

• A sudden, severe headache accompanied by nausea and vomiting.
• Persistent and recurring headaches accompanied by memory problems, difficulty concentrating and tiredness.
• A high fever with neck stiffness (unable to bend the chin down to the chest).
• Convulsions (fits).
• Persistent vision disturbances (light flashes).
• Trouble controlling arms and legs.
• Loss of feeling in the arms and legs.
• Tiredness and apathy with difficulty communicating.

How does the doctor make a diagnosis?

An accurate history of any previous illnesses, family background, diet and lifestyle is crucial to help the doctor decide whether to perform further tests and to advise on treatment.
The doctor will ask for information about the headache, its length, duration, location, associated features, quality and causative factors.
Bear in mind that the vast majority of headaches, even persistent ones, are not sinister.
However, when symptoms suggest that the headaches may be related to a chronic or more serious disorder, the following diagnostic procedures might be performed, usually following assessment by a specialist.

• Head CT (computerised tomography) scan.
• Head MRI (magnetic resonance imaging).
• Sinus X-rays.
• Temporal artery biopsy.
• Lumbar puncture.

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