Erectile dysfunction is a commonly misunderstood medical condition since it’s something that many men don't openly discuss. There are a lot of ED myths out there, which can make it difficult to know facts from fiction. Our mission at Giddy is to provide accurate information, encourage open communication, and break stigmas around topics like ED and sexual health. With that in mind, we’ve compiled six facts about ED that may surprise you.
#1: ED is common
Studies show that roughly 40 million men have experienced ED symptoms, including the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sex, or the ability to achieve an erection but not every time you want to have sex. In the U.S. alone, 1 in 4 men will experience ED by the time they turn 40. ED is very common, and can be experienced in many different ways, at different levels of severity.
#2: ED medications don’t always work
Prescription medication is still a commonly used approach to dealing with ED. However, studies have shown that erectile dysfunction pills only work in about 2 out of 3 cases. It’s also quite common for the dosage of the medication to increase exponentially over time, depending on how much they're being taken. More men are deciding not to take ED medications because of the possible side effects; nausea, headaches, diarrhea, vision damage, and others. Also, ED pills can be expensive (up to $1,200 a year), usually aren't covered by insurance, and can be an undesirable addition to medication routines for men dealing with other health issues. Additionally, with the emergence of new, natural options for ED, like Giddy's FDA Registered ED device, men have more options to deal with ED that have none of the risks of ED medications.
#3: Stress makes ED worse
Stress levels are on the rise. Worry and stress often exacerbate a variety of situations, especially ED. When it comes to ED, many men feel “performance anxiety” and become stressed at their inability to achieve or maintain an erection, even before the issue presents itself. This anxiety causes great psychological distress that manifests as physical stress. Not being able to perform sexually can cause some men to feel depressed, anxious, stressed out, and then in turn, those reactions in the body can manifest the ED issues further. This has been described by some men experiencing ED as a "vicious cycle" or a "self-fulfilling prophecy". There are stress-relieving and sleep improvement exercises one can do to decrease stress levels, and increase the right chemicals in the body for improved libido, testosterone, and more. More information about stress relief and better sleep can be found in our online learning program for ED, called the ED Guide, which is provided to all customers free of charge with the purchase of an ED device. 
#4: Lifestyle choices affect ED
Smoking, poor diet, alcohol abuse, drug use, being overweight, and a sedentary lifestyle can all contribute to erectile dysfunction. These choices increase cardiovascular complications like heart attack, stroke, and decreased blood flow. If a man doesn’t have healthy blood flow, it becomes increasingly difficult to maintain satisfactory erections. There are positive lifestyle changes you can make to reduce erectile dysfunction, including being more physically active and adding more nutrient-dense foods to your diet. There are studies that demonstrate adding olive oil, nuts, fruits, and vegetables to a man’s diet can ED symptoms by boosting heart health. Another natural way to address ED is Giddy's medical device. This wearable device is a prescription-free alternative to ED medications without the side effects. It’s placed at the base of the penis and its unique oval shape allows for blood to flow into the penis and stay there. It was designed to be a more comfortable and effective option than a traditional constriction ring, and not apply painful pressure. It was designed to help men maintain erections and experience a normal, natural finish.
#5: ED can be a side effect
Erectile dysfunction symptoms can be signs of an underlying medical condition. Men with high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, diabetes, or nerve diseases can experience ED. This is why it’s important to visit a physician if you begin experiencing problems with erections as it could point to a more serious medical condition. Antidepressants, antihistamines and medications for ulcers and high blood pressure can also cause ED complications.
#6: ED isn't permanent
Erectile dysfunction can be a difficult thing to deal with. Remember that it's common and there are plenty of options to help deal with the issue. Many men don't realize that certain changes to their lifestyle can have powerful effects on reducing their ED; things like quitting smoking, physical fitness, diet, stress relief, healthier sleep, communication with their partner or partners; these are things men should consider if they want to fully address their ED. Learn more about what you can do to improve your ED symptoms in our personalized ED Guide, included with any of our ED device packs. We encourage you to discuss all of your ED concerns and treatment options with your doctor. You can manage your ED and improve your sexual health; everyone deserves a happy, healthy, fulfilling sex life.