How Can Sleep Affect Men’s Health?

By Hidaya Aliouche, B.Sc.
Reviewed by Sophia Coveney

This article is a repost which originally appeared on News Medical

Edited for content. The opinions expressed in this article may not reflect the opinions of this site’s editors, staff or members.

Key Points

‧ Adults should get an average of 8 hours of sleep per night.

‧ A lack of good sleep can cause many serious maladies.

‧ The use of a CPAP can be beneficial in many cases of sleep apnea

Sleep is known to affect several systems and processes in the body. Overarchingly, sleep deprivation is associated with negative health consequences.

With regards to specific effects of sleep on men’s health, dysfunctional sleeping patterns have been shown to impact erectile dysfunction, lower urinary tract symptoms, hypogonadal symptoms, low testosterone, and male infertility.

What is considered to be appropriate sleep?

The average number of hours of sleep required for an adult is between 7–9 for optimal health. However, a considerable number of adults do not meet this requirement.

A study conducted in 2012 demonstrated that 29.2% of men achieved an average of 6 hours or less of sleep each evening. the institute of Medicine further estimates that between 50 and 70 million Americans suffer from a chronic sleep disorder; this epidemic is associated with societal changes which include increased reliance on technology, increased working hours, and poor sleep hygiene.

In addition, non-standard shift working patterns can divulge significantly from circadian patterns which further increases the risk of impaired sleep quality.

The interrelationship between disrupted or inadequate sleep and the manifestation of disease

The relationship between health and sleep is bi-directional. There are several medical conditions associated with inadequate or disrupted sleep which include restless leg syndrome, insomnia, hypogonadism, sleep apnea, and depression.

Furthermore, several studies have revealed that short and sleep or disrupted sleep can produce health conditions including diabetes, coronary heart disease, hypertension, heart attacks, stroke, and several endocrine and cardiovascular disorders. Moreover, poor sleep also impacts the patients’ perception of symptoms and their severity alongside the clinical responses observed.

Combined with independent risk factors such as age, body mass in tax, mental health conditions that affect the perception of symptoms such as depression, and clinical characteristics, sleep functioning can moderate clinical symptoms and impact the quality of life experienced by patients.

Sleep and erectile dysfunction

In the general population, longitudinal studies have revealed that approximately 50% of men experienced erectile dysfunction to some degree. Several studies have reported that sleep can affect erectile dysfunction. For example, a cross-sectional analysis of 2676 men over the age of 67 found that those with a sleep dysfunction called nocturnal hypoxemia were more likely to experience moderate or complete erectile dysfunction.

In the same study, a similar condition that disrupts sleep, sleep apnea, was studied in relation to erectile dysfunction. In a randomized sham-controlled trial, a total of 61 men were assigned to groups to investigate whether the use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) could improve erectile function in men who suffered from both erectile dysfunction and obstructive sleep apnea.

Overall, men who were randomized to CPAP showed no change in erectile dysfunction; however, when further examined in terms of patients who used the CPAP machine for over four hours per night, those who did so experienced a significant improvement. A placebo trial showed that a medication commonly used to treat erectile dysfunction did not significantly improve erectile dysfunction in these men.

These results suggest that in men with obstructive sleep apnea, sleep quality contributes to the condition, and may not respond to first-line treatment for erectile dysfunction with a PDE5 inhibitor; suggesting that in fact, correcting the underlying sleep impairment could produce more significant improvement in erectile dysfunction.

Alongside obstruction to breathing, non-standard shift work that has a significant effect on sleep has been shown to impact erectile dysfunction. A correlation between insomnia and erectile dysfunction has been confirmed by several studies. Some of these studies suggest that the correction of poor sleep in isolation may lead to a clinical improvement in manifestations of erectile dysfunction. This body of research continues to grow.

Sleep and lower urinary tract symptoms

Aging male populations commonly experience lower urinary tract symptoms. This is frequently associated with benign prostatic hypertrophy. Symptoms include poor urine stream, incomplete emptying of the bladder, straining, changes to the frequency of urination, urination hesitancy, and nocturia.

The urge to urinate is often exacerbated during the night, which leads to disrupted sleep and a decrease in overall sleep quality. A survey conducted on 5335 men who were diagnosed with lower urinary tract symptoms demonstrated that only 13% reported continuous sleep periods of more than two to three hours, illustrating the degree to which urinary tract symptoms can affect sleep.

Other studies have verified an association between lower urinary tract symptoms and other sleep-affecting conditions. For example, men with obstructive sleep apnea are more likely to experience urinary tract symptoms compared to those who do not. The severity of obstructive sleep apnea in this context has been found to correlate the most strongly with daytime frequency, urgency, and frequency of nocturia.

CPAP machines have been found to reduce lower urinary tract symptoms in those with obstructive sleep apnea. For example, a man with both lower urinary tract symptoms and obstructive sleep apnea who implemented CPAP for 12 months showed a significant increase in bladder compliance, as well as decreases in nocturia frequency and nighttime urination volumes.

Insomnia is also considered to be an aggravator of lower urinary tract symptoms as well as non-standard shift work.

Sleep and male fertility

Several studies have demonstrated that sperm counts have been decreasing over the past 40 years (50 to 60%). Unlike the linear correlation between erectile dysfunction and sleep, the relationship between sleep and male fertility is less clear.

Evidence suggests that an inverted U shape relationship exists, meaning that excessive and insufficient sleep are equally associated with reduced fertility. In a study of 198 infertile men, this relationship was found. However, interestingly no differences in semen volume, sperm motility, luteinizing hormone, or follicle-stimulating hormone were observed.

An additional study found via testicular biopsies in idiopathic infertile men that full circadian disruption – as manifested by too little or too much sleep – may affect the oxidation state of the testicle, shifting spermatogenesis.

Despite these correlative studies, no studies have assessed the impact of obstructive sleep apnea on fertility. With regards to non-standard shift work which impairs sleep quality, this has been suggested to impair spermatogenesis, although findings from studies have been inconsistent: some studies have demonstrated that men performing shift work had higher odds of experiencing infertility, while others have found no effect.

Conclusion

Poor sleep affects men and women alike. However, the unique effects in men concern urological problems, including erectile dysfunction, lower urinary tract symptoms, hypogonadism, and male infertility.

Alongside these, poor sleep is associated with a higher risk of several health problems that affect the quality of life including but not limited to cognitive impairment, social impairment, mood disturbances, and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and associated manifestations such as atrial fibrillation.

References

‧  Kohn TP, Kohn JR, Haney NM, et al. (2020) The effect of sleep on men’s health. Transl Androl Urol. doi:10.21037/tau.2019.11.07.
‧  Irer B, Celikhisar A, Celikhisar H, et al. (2018) Evaluation of Sexual Dysfunction, Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms and Quality of Life in Men With Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome and the Efficacy of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Therapy. Urology. doi:10.1016/j.urology.2018.08.001.
‧  Soterio-Pires JH, Hirotsu C, Kim LJ, et al. (2016)The interaction between erectile dysfunction complaints and depression in men: a cross-sectional study about sleep, hormones, and quality of life. Int J Impot Res. doi:10.1038/ijir.2016.4.
‧  McBride JA, Kohn TP, Rodriguez KM, et al. (2018) Incidence and characteristics of men at high risk for sleep apnea in a high volume andrology clinic. J Urol. 10.1016/j.juro.2018.02.1358.

 

 

5 reasons for low sex drive in men these days and how to treat it

TIMESOFINDIA.COM | Last updated on -Mar 11, 2023, 00:00 IST

This article is a repost which originally appeared on Times Of India

Edited for content. The opinions expressed in this article may not reflect the opinions of this site’s editors, staff or members.

Key Points

‧ 1 in 5 men experience low libido.

‧ There could be several reasons why men experience low libido or ED (Erectile Dysfunction).

‧ Stress can cause low libido through different feedback loops.

01/7 Reasons for lack of sexual desire

Among every 5 men 1 faces the problem of low libido due to various reasons like stress or hormonal imbalances that make them want to avoid any kind of sexual activity. Yet, sometimes a loss of sex desire is a symptom of a deeper issue. Men’s decrease of sex desire can frequently be attributed to depression, stress, drunkenness, illicit drug usage, and weariness.

Here are several reasons why men may experience low sex drive:

02/7 ​​Stress: ​

High levels of stress can affect testosterone levels and reduce sex drive. If a person is distracted by a certain situation or goes through severe mental pressure, then his sexual drive decreases.

03/7​​ Hormonal imbalances:​

Dr. Caranj S.V., M.B.B.S., M.S. (General Surgery), M.Ch. (Urology), Medical expert with Kindly Health says, “Issues such as low testosterone levels, can lead to decreased sex drive. Men who have hypogonadism are determined to struggle with the problem of low testosterone levels estimated below 300 ng/dl. Such men face a lack of urge for any sexual activity.

04/7 ​​Medications: ​

Some medications can have side effects that reduce sex drive, such as antidepressants and blood pressure medications. Men taking radiation treatments or chemotherapy for cancer suffer from decreased sex drive along with those who take anabolic steroids like sportsmen.

05/7​​ Poor lifestyle habits: ​

Poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking, consumption of excessive alcohol, and drug use can all contribute to low sex drive. Also, if proper sleep and rest are not taken then that also creates problems and causes low sex drive.

06/7 ​​Relationship issues: ​

Problems with a partner, such as communication issues or unresolved conflicts, can reduce sexual desire.

07/7​​ The solution to low sex drive in men include:​

Addressing stress: Finding ways to manage stress, such as through exercise, meditation, or therapy, can help improve sex drive. Adopting a healthier lifestyle: Cessation of smoking, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and reducing alcohol and drug use can all help improve sex drive. Treating hormonal imbalances: According to Dr. Caranj, “If low testosterone levels are the cause, hormone replacement therapy may be necessary.” Addressing relationship issues: Working with a partner to address communication issues and resolve conflicts can help improve sexual desire. Switching medications: If medication side effects are the cause, switching to a different medication may be necessary.

Can Low Testosterone Cause Anxiety and Depression?

October 6, 2022 / Men’s Health

Low testosterone levels can mimic symptoms of depression and cause anxiety over time

This article is a repost which originally appeared on Cleveland Clinic healthessentials.

Edited for content. The opinions expressed in this article may not reflect the opinions of this site’s editors, staff or members.

Our takes:

‧ Low testosterone will manifest itself via several symptoms.

‧ Depression can be a symptom but can also be a contributing factor to developing low T.

‧ Having too high levels of T may result in irritability/becoming easily angered.

If you’re experiencing low sex drive, diminishing energy and overall fatigue, you may feel like it’s just another part of getting older. But if you’re a man or a person assigned male at birth (AMAB) and you’re experiencing a host of physical symptoms, coupled with a consistent depressive mood, you could actually be dealing with hypogonadism (low testosterone) or undiagnosed depression.

But figuring out whether you’re dealing with depression or low testosterone is tricky and requires further examination from a healthcare provider. Urologist Lawrence Hakim, MD, explains more about the connection between low testosterone and your mood, and how these conditions may be related.

How low testosterone impacts your mood

Androgens, including testosterone, are the hormones that give people their “male” and “female” characteristics. They also play a critical role in puberty, the development of your sexual reproductive system and your ability to reproduce.

You can think of all hormones, including androgens, like switches on a circuit board: When the production of these hormones are turned on or off, different things happen. You can experience physical, mental and emotional changes whenever production of these hormones increase, decrease or stop completely. The severity of these changes can vary widely from one hormone to the next, and these changes don’t happen in a vacuum. When the levels of one hormone changes, others may change in response. An increase in one hormone might mean a decrease in others. And when you have these hormonal imbalances, it can cause a variety of conditions to develop.

Testosterone levels tend to decrease normally as you get older, but they can also fluctuate for many reasons. Studies show these changes in testosterone can impact your mood in different ways. And these changes can occur in response to many different factors, including stress, lack of sleep, changes in your diet, aging and increasing or decreasing your physical activity.

If your testosterone levels are too high, for example, you may feel irritable or quick to anger. In comparison, low testosterone can make you feel extremely tired, depressed, weak or low in energy.

“People with hypogonadism, or low testosterone, will often say they have no energy, no desire for sexual activity and that they noticed a decrease in muscle mass,” says Dr. Hakim.

“In fact, hypogonadism is often associated with increased fat mass and reduced muscle mass, which can lead to obesity and other health risks, including cardiovascular disease. Those are all common signs and symptoms that may be associated with low testosterone.”

Signs and symptoms of low testosterone and depression

Low testosterone and depression share a lot of the same symptoms, including:

‧ Irritability.
‧ Mood swings.
‧ Decreased libido.
‧ Fatigue.
‧ Lack of motivation.
‧ Social withdrawal.
‧ Anxiety.
‧ Difficulty focusing.
‧ Interrupted sleep and restlessness.

“When we say people are depressed, what are we describing? We’re often describing someone as having low energy and no desire to partake in activities that normally bring them pleasure — these are common things we see with low testosterone, too,” notes Dr. Hakim. “Sometimes, people are actually misdiagnosed with clinical depression and they might instead have low testosterone or hypogonadism. It is therefore important to rule-out a physical cause of the condition, such as hypogonadism, prior to treatment.”

Various physical symptoms may be associated with either depression or low testosterone. People who have depression might complain of back pain or neck pain, but might not experience other symptoms typically associated with low testosterone that include:

‧ Decrease in muscle mass.
‧ Increase in breast tissue.
‧ Loss of strength.
‧ Sudden weight gain.
‧ Erectile dysfunction

And if you also have depression or even an anxiety disorder, your symptoms may worsen over time if low testosterone levels are leading to a further decline in sexual performance and libido.

“If you come in to see your doctor with any of these symptoms, especially if you have some form of sexual dysfunction, it is important to evaluate your total and free testosterone levels, since hypogonadism may be the underlying cause,” advises Dr. Hakim. “You don’t want to ignore low testosterone. You want to address it as well as look for any other underlying diagnosis that needs to be addressed.”

When to see a doctor

If you’re experiencing physical symptoms like sudden weight gain or decrease in your sex drive or sexual performance and other mental and emotional symptoms, you should talk to a doctor about testing your testosterone levels. There are many effective treatment options to restore your testosterone levels to the normal range, if your testosterone levels are abnormally low. But even if you discover you don’t have low testosterone levels, understanding those test results will often provide some reassurance and help your healthcare provider better understand and manage your symptoms.

“Many of these symptoms, especially as men get older, can be due to other factors such as stress, anxiety, pressure, work, aging, relationship issues and even other medications,” says Dr. Hakim. “Ultimately, a multispecialty approach is important to assure the best outcomes and patient satisfaction.”

Biohacking: Does it really slow ageing process and enhance human performance? Experts explain

Ishaan Arora 13 June 2022 11:50 AM

This article is a repost which originally appeared on News9

Edited for content. The opinions expressed in this article may not reflect the opinions of this site’s editors, staff or members.

Biohacking aids in the alleviation or reduction of symptoms associated with mental health such as depression and anxiety.

Highlights

‧ The term biohacking gained a lot of popularity after former Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey told his followers that he benefitted both mentally and physically from biohacking.

‧ Biohacking is typically safe as long as you don’t go too far and follow your doctor or specialist’s guidelines.

‧ Experts advocate that individuals who don’t understand, health, nutrition, neuroscience, and brain function should not try biohacking.

So you’re sick of being average? You desire more from your life and job. Netflix, wine, margaritas, reels, and nachos have all made you want to stay in bed. Sure, you’ve heard of productivity hacks, but what if one told you that the solution to your problem is ‘biohacking’, also known as ‘do-it-yourself’ biology.

The term biohacking gained a lot of popularity after former Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey told his followers that he benefitted both mentally and physically from biohacking. Jack stated that biohacking enhanced his productivity, pointing out that he only eats one meal per day during the week and doesn’t eat at all on weekends. Some even claim that biohacking can help with almost anything – right from weight loss to cognitive function. However, the best biohacking results come from recognising what works for your body and avoiding what doesn’t. So to understand the real science behind biohacking, News9 spoke with some of the best experts in the world and here`s everything you need to know about it.

What is Biohacking?

Kolkata-based psychiatrist Dr Era Dutta explains, “Biohacking is the attempt at augmenting your performance, health and wellbeing through specific interventions. The term is meant to create the association of hacking – meaning creating a shortcut way through for your biology.”

“You can ‘biohack’ your mind, your body, your nutrition, exercise, sleep and more,” she continues. The beauty of biohacking is that it is DIY – do it yourself (with or without guidance). The process involves testing, monitoring and trying various combinations.

“Biohacking means different things to different people and is truly a very broad concept,” explains Vijeta Goyal, a Bangalore-based wellness consultant. “The notion is as follows: manipulating the biochemical processes in your body to bring about the best healthy version of yourself. The primary goal is self-improvement,” Vijeta adds.

Biohacking, according to Mumbai-based neurologist Dr Parthvi Ravat, is a technology-assisted strategy for modifying “homeostasis,” which refers to the body’s internal environment. “Simply put,” she says, “it is the use of science to support our bodies in boosting physical and mental performance, as well as battling various disorders.”

According to Shreya Gupta, a Chennai-based life coach, biohacking is something you instruct yourself to do. “It’s as if you tell yourself to exercise, so you get yourself a Fitbit or an Apple Watch to motivate yourself,” Shreya adds.

Biohacking is a science-based method of assisting our bodies in improving physical and mental performance as well as combating various ailments.

What are the most widely used bio-hacking tools?

In today’s world, we have access to commercially available tools and devices which are far more powerful than what even the most advanced clinics and researchers had only a few decades ago, remarks Supriya, a Delhi-based holistic health coach. Blood tests and health monitors give an extra edge in determining whether or not something is wrong with our bodies, Supriya explains.

“These days, I’m experimenting with taking ice-cold showers with water that’s 10 degrees celsius, and I’ve noticed a significant improvement in the condition of my skin and hair, and I’m tracking how it affects my natural hormone levels,” she further adds.

According to Dr Era Dutta, the most prevalent tools are:

Nutrition

Eliminating foods like gluten, and dairy; intermittent fasting.

Mental health

Cold baths, Wimhoff method, breathing pattern work, cryo chambers and meditation

Sleep

Melatonin supplements, white noise apps, weighted blankets, light therapy

Nootropics

A nootropic is claimed to be a class of substances that can boost brain performance. They can range from the more globally tried and accepted omega 3 fatty acids to Ginkgo Biloba to the more controversial use of ADHD stimulants, and micro-dosing of psychotropics.

Vitamins

Supplements of vitamins, infusions for better overall health. For example Vitamin B complex, micronutrients etc.

Adaptogens

Adaptogens are plants and mushrooms that help your body respond to stress, anxiety, fatigue, and overall well-being like Ayurvedic herb ashwagandha

Apps and technology

Wearable rings that monitor your body stats, EEG headsets that measure waves during meditation, sleep, mood changes etc.

More extreme

Nutrigenomics focuses on how the food you eat interacts with your genes and manipulates them.

According to Vijeta Goyal, biohacking comes in many forms. Some of them are as listed below:

Changes in lifestyle and diet

These include more conventional behaviours like yoga and meditation, eating consciously and healthily, spending time in nature, engaging in enjoyable exercise, and sleeping well, which you may not even realise are part of biohacking.

Technology

Don’t we appreciate our smartwatches, fitness trackers, and smart clothing? Have you ever considered your fitness tracker or weight-loss app to be biohacking? Biohacking is defined as the use of wearable technology to track your steps, remind you to drink water, or stand up and stretch – and it may be highly beneficial.

Grinders

Many people believe implanted technology to be the next step, although it has yet to become ubiquitous. Grinders, in general, aid in the optimisation of bodies by chemical injections, implants, and anything else that can be injected into the body to help humans grow smarter, quicker, and better.

Nutrigenomics

Nutrigenomics is the study of how food interacts with and influences your genes.

How safe are these tools?

Everything is safe when done in moderation and with care, as Dr Era Dutta demonstrated. “Isn’t it true that even in computer hacking, radical shortcuts don’t work? Similarly, staying away from extreme fads, conducting thorough research, knowing your own body and mind, and, most importantly, enlisting the assistance of a field expert when necessary are all essential components of biohacking properly.”

“Some kind of biohacking can be harmless,” Vijeta argues. “Sporting wearables, for example, or adopting lifestyle changes may be safe if done under the supervision of a scientific professional. Some biohacking techniques, such as grinder, are potentially harmful or illegal,” she adds.

What role does biohacking play in Human Performance Enhancement?

Biohacking, according to Vijeta, is supposed to assist you to achieve permanent, good change if utilised carefully and under professional guidance. “Physical, behavioural, or emotional improvements, such as lowering weight or reducing depressive symptoms, may reduce your chance of acquiring an illness to which you are genetically predisposed. Blood pressure and gut microbes are two examples of improved biological processes,” she explains.

“The whole idea of the human race is to be better, live longer, healthier and happier,” explains Dr Era adding that although biohacking hasn’t undergone concrete trials, it is meant to be the path.

However, according to statements made by its most trusted user, Jack Dorsey it can help with:

1 Alleviating or reducing symptoms of mental health issues like depressive symptoms, and anxiety features (this can be in conjunction with treatment)

2 Alleviating or reducing chronic health issues like diabetes, arthritis, chronic pain, chronic fatigue, blood pressure, migraine etc.

3 Obesity and weight loss

4 Helping in ace concentration, creativity and peak productivity

5 Reducing gut-related issues

Are biohacking promises such as longevity and slow ageing true or simply a fad?

Shreya says that the human brain is so powerful. “So, if you keep pushing yourself, you can accomplish your goals. I told myself in 2014 that I would establish a morning routine that included getting up, getting ready, and then just leaving my room. Since then, I haven’t missed it “she explains. “It all relies on your mindset and beliefs. So all you have to do now is educate your mind and force yourself to do it.”

How can biohacking be incorporated into daily life, and who should abstain from it?

With technologies like smartwatches, continuous glucose monitoring, health tracking devices, easy access to sophisticated testing, and so on, biohacking is simple for anyone to get into, remarks Supriya. She further continues: “Someone working, for example, may utilise biohacking to figure out when they have the greatest energy and when they have the least energy during the day. We can determine how much sleep we require to be the most creative and productive.”

Supriya further advocates that people who have high anxiety should not get into biohacking. “This is because if you’re tracking a biomarker and it’s out of range, you’ll look up the reasons online and find that there’s a potential you’re suffering from a deadly condition. This can frighten a lot of people, leading to them deteriorating their health as a result of their concern.”

Can biohacking be dangerous if you lack scientific training?

Supriya further points out that individuals who don’t understand, health, nutrition, neuroscience, and brain function should not try biohacking. “We are experimenting with our bodies and without the correct supervision or understanding, it may be harmful.”

Dr Parthvi believes that even silicon valley scientists and common biohackers are ignorant of the advantages and disadvantages. “It would be prudent to wait and see where this goes before attempting various biohacking tactics,” she advises.

Takeaway

Biohacking is typically safe as long as you don’t go too far and follow your doctor’s or specialist’s guidelines. However, be cautious in general. Experimenting on oneself without taking all of the necessary safeguards might lead to undesirable consequences.

A Collection of Some of Our Best Thread Links and Resources

Here’s a list of some shortcuts to our favorite TheBioHacker forum threads:

 

A description on how to navigate the forum as well as what to expect- and what’s expected from you:
READ THIS BEFORE YOU POST!!!!! Maximize Your Success Here.

 

A great link database for setting up your journal and seeing other members’ progress:
MUST READ Sticky Threads – Progress Forum

 

Setting the right emotional backdrop for obtaining maximum results from male enhancement training:
The training mindset

 

This is important if you’re considering male enhancement training but suffer from anxiety or depression:
Please Read First

 

A list of contributing experts to TheBioHacker:
MEET THE EXPERTS

 

A database on links and resources for contending with the various causes of erectile dysfunction:
MUST READ Sticky Threads – Erectile Dysfunction Forum

 

A detailed account of a medical doctor’s experience with dealing with “hard flaccid”:
A Doctor with Hard Flaccid – Updates and Advice

 

An excellent instructional for non-medical measures for contending with pelvic floor problems and poor Erection Quality (EQ):
The HANS Protocol

Psychedelics Show Promise in Treating Mental Illness: Depression, Anxiety, Addiction, and PTSD

One in five U.S. adults will experience a mental illness in their lifetime, according to the National Alliance of Mental Health. But standard treatments can be slow to work and cause side effects.

To find better solutions, a Virginia Tech researcher has joined a renaissance of research on a long-banned class of drugs that could combat several forms of mental illness and, in mice, have achieved long-lasting results from just one dose.

This article is a repost which originally appeared on SciTechDaily 
VIRGINIA TECH - NOVEMBER 27, 2021
Edited for content and readability - Images sourced from Pexels 
Study: DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.109836

Using a process his lab developed in 2015, Chang Lu, the Fred W. Bull Professor of Chemical Engineering in the College of Engineering, is helping his Virginia Commonwealth University collaborators study the epigenomic effects of psychedelics.

Their findings give insight into how psychedelic substances like psilocybin, mescaline, LSD, and similar drugs may relieve symptoms of addiction, anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. The drugs appear to work faster and last longer than current medications — all with fewer side effects.

The project hinged on Lu’s genomic analysis. His process allows researchers to use very small samples of tissue, down to hundreds to thousands of cells, and draw meaningful conclusions from them. Older processes require much larger sample sizes, so Lu’s approach enables the studies using just a small quantity of material from a specific region of a mouse brain.

And looking at the effects of psychedelics on brain tissues is especially important.

Researchers can do human clinical trials with the substances, taking blood and urine samples and observing behaviors, Lu said. “But the thing is, the behavioral data will tell you the result, but it doesn’t tell you why it works in a certain way,” he said.

But looking at molecular changes in animal models, such as the brains of mice, allows scientists to peer into what Lu calls the black box of neuroscience to understand the biological processes at work. While the brains of mice are very different from human brains, Lu said there are enough similarities to make valid comparisons between the two.

VCU pharmacologist Javier González-Maeso has made a career of studying psychedelics, which had been banned after recreational use of the drugs was popularized in the 1960s. But in recent years, regulators have begun allowing research on the drugs to proceed.

In work by other researchers, primarily on psilocybin, a substance found in more than 200 species of fungi, González-Maeso said psychedelics have shown promise in alleviating major depression and anxiety disorders. “They induce profound effects in perception,” he said. “But I was interested in how these drugs actually induce behavioral effects in mice.”

To explore the genomic basis of those effects, he teamed up with Lu.

In the joint Virginia Tech – VCU study, González-Maeso’s team used 2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodoamphetamine, or DOI, a drug similar to LSD, administering it to mice that had been trained to fear certain triggers. Lu’s lab then analyzed brain samples for changes in the epigenome and the gene expression. They discovered that the epigenomic variations were generally more long-lasting than the changes in gene expression, thus more likely to link with the long-term effects of a psychedelic.

After one dose of DOI, the mice that had reacted to fear triggers no longer responded to them with anxious behaviors. Their brains also showed effects, even after the substance was no longer detectable in the tissues, Lu said. The findings were published in the October issue of Cell Reports.

It’s a hopeful development for those who suffer from mental illness and the people who love them. In fact, it wasn’t just the science that drew Lu to the project.

For him, it’s also personal.

“My older brother has had schizophrenia for the last 30 years, basically. So I’ve always been intrigued by mental health,” Lu said. “And then once I found that our approach can be applied to look at processes like that — that’s why I decided to do research in the field of brain neuroscience.”

González-Maeso said research on psychedelics is still in its early stages, and there’s much work to be done before treatments derived from them could be widely available.

How Common Is Erectile Dysfunction?

How Common Is Erectile Dysfunction?

By Katie Wilkinson, MPH, MCHES

Published on September 28, 2021
Medically reviewed by Matthew Wosnitzer, MD

This article is a repost which originally appeared on verywell health

Edited for content.

Erectile dysfunction (ED), or impotence, is the inability to achieve and maintain an erection for sexual activity. While the occasional failure to get an erection is not uncommon, if it happens consistently, or more than 50% of the time, it may be ED. It can be a temporary experience, or develop into a long-term condition that requires treatment.

Prevalence

On a global scale, ED affects 3% to 76.5% of all men. The wide range is due to the different measures used in studies to evaluate ED.

In the United States, it’s estimated that 30 million men experience ED.2 Worldwide, there are about 150 million men living with ED, and by the year 2025, it’s predicted that over 300 million men will have ED.

Common Causes

ED can be caused by a number of factors relating to physical and mental health, including:

  • Physical and health conditions that involve different systems in the body, such as the vascular, neurological, or endocrine systems; can include issues with nerve signals or blood flow to the penis
  • Side effects from medication, which can include antidepressants, medication to manage blood pressure, tranquilizers, sedatives, ulcer medication, and prostate cancer therapy
  • Psychological or emotional causes such as depression, anxiety, fear associated with sexual performance, general stress, or low self-esteem
  • Lifestyle behaviors and health-related factors that are associated with ED include smoking, being overweight, lack of exercise, and substance (alcohol or drug) use

Risk Factors

Certain risk factors have been found to increase the likelihood of experiencing ED. They can include:

    • Age: The chances of developing ED increases with age, particularly in men over 60 years old.
    • Tobacco use: Research has found that smokers are 1.5 times more likely to experience ED than nonsmokers.
    • High blood pressure (hypertension): About 30% to 50% of people living with hypertension also experience ED.
    • Type 2 diabetes: Between 35% and 90% of diabetic men will develop ED.
    • High cholesterol: Statins used to treat high cholesterol showed improved erectile function.
    • Hypogonadism: This is a condition where the body doesn’t produce enough sex hormones, including testosterone. Since testosterone is necessary for the ability to maintain an erection, people with hypogonadism who are treated with testosterone replacement therapy can see improved erectile function.
    • Obesity: Several studies have indicated that men with a body mass index (BMI) greater than 25 begin to experience a 1.5 to three times greater risk of ED than those with lower BMIs.
    • Depression: Men living with depression are two times more likely to experience ED. Treating depression with selective serotonin uptake inhibitors (SSRIs) can also increase risk of ED.

Stress and anxiety, particularly performance-related anxiety, can also cause issues with sexual activity and erectile function.

Associated Conditions

In addition to diabetes, hypertension, and hypogonadism, the National Institute for Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases also lists the following conditions and diseases as associated with ED:

  • Heart and blood vessel conditions, including atherosclerosis
  • Injuries of the spinal cord, penis, prostate gland, bladder, or pelvic area
  • Prostate or bladder surgery
  • Chronic kidney disease
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Peyronie’s disease, a condition where scar tissue develops and creates a bend in the penis

Treatment

Treatment for ED can take many forms and depends on the root cause of the individual’s ED. Because of ED’s impact on sexual relationships, it’s worth discussing treatment options with your sexual partner.

Lifestyle

Avoiding or stopping the use of tobacco, alcohol, and other drugs may help with ED.

Increasing physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight can also be a way to improve erectile function.

Mental Health Counseling

Because emotional and psychological concerns can play a role in ED, speaking with a mental health professional can be beneficial. They can help identify ways to manage anxiety and work through stress that may be impacting sexual performance.

Medication

Oral (PDE5 inhibitors), injectable, or suppository medications can be prescribed to help achieve and maintain an erection. For those with low testosterone (hypogonadism), testosterone replacement therapy may be prescribed.

Treatment may also involve adjusting or changing current medications that hinder the ability to get an erection.

Devices and Procedures

The following devices and procedures can be used to treat ED:

  • Penis pump: This device uses vacuum action to pull blood into the penis to create an erection. It has a tube where the penis is placed and a pump that draws air out of the tube and creates suction. Once the blood is pulled into the penis, an elastic band is placed at the base of the penis to prevent the blood from going back into the body and to keep the erection for about 30 minutes.
  • Arterial repair surgery: Procedures to repair clogged blood vessels in the penis may increase blood flow to allow for erections. This treatment is usually reserved for patients under the age of 30.
  • Implantable devices: These include surgically placed devices that either inflate or include semi-rigid rods to help a person achieve an erection.

A Word From Verywell

While many men might feel embarrassed by their erectile dysfunction, it should be a comfort to know that it is a very common condition, affecting at least 150 million men worldwide. It is also a very treatable condition.

Talk to your healthcare provider if you experience issues achieving and maintaining an erection. Even though it may be uncomfortable to talk about, proper sexual functioning is a key part of your overall health and well-being.

Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
  1. Cleveland Clinic. Erectile dysfunction. Updated October 14, 2019.
  2. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Definition & facts for erectile dysfunction. Updated July 2017.
  3. Kessler A, Sollie S, Challacombe B, Briggs K, Van Hemelrijck M. The global prevalence of erectile dysfunction: a review. BJU International. 2019;124(4):587-599. doi:10.1111/bju.14813
  4. Kalsi J, Muneer A. Erectile dysfunction – an update of current practice and future strategies. J Clinic Urol. 2013;6(4):210-219. doi:10.1177/2051415813491862
  5. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Symptoms & causes of erectile dysfunction. Updated July 2017.
  6. DeLay KJ, Haney N, Hellstrom WJ. Modifying risk factors in the management of erectile dysfunction: a review. World J Mens Health. 2016;34(2):89-100. doi:10.5534/wjmh.2016.34.2.89
  7. Mourikis I, Antoniou M, Matsouka E, et al. Anxiety and depression among Greek men with primary erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation. Ann Gen Psychiatry. 2015;14(1):34. doi:10.1186/s12991-015-0074-y
  8. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Treatment for erectile dysfunction. Updated July 2017.
  9. Urology Care Foundation. What is erectile dysfunction? Updated June 2018.
  10. Nguyen HM, Gabrielson AT, Hellstrom WJG. Erectile dysfunction in young men—a review of the prevalence and risk factors. Sexual Medicine Reviews. 2017;5(4):508-520. doi:10.1016/j.sxmr.2017.05.004
  11. International Society for Sexual Medicine. Can a vasectomy cause erectile dysfunction (ED)?
  12. Ssentongo AE, Kwon EG, Zhou S, Ssentongo P, Soybel DI. Pain and dysfunction with sexual activity after inguinal hernia repair: systematic review and meta-analysis. J Am Coll Surg. 2020;230(2). doi:10.1016/j.jamcollsurg.2019.10.010

The Best Exercise that Helps to Treat Depression Problems

The Best Exercise that Helps to Treat Depression Problems

Monday, May 31, 2021 17:05 EST 4 mins read

This article is a repost which originally appeared on KISSPR

Edited for content.

Choosing exercise to help deal with depression is a great idea. Not only does this discharge feel-good endorphins, but in addition, it allows for social interaction and gives structure to our days.

Exercise is as great for your general mental health as it is for the physical body. Get into routine workout habits when you have conditions like anxiety or depression. Some exercises may conduct an essential part in getting the better of symptoms. The physical and psychological elements of the human body operate hand-in-hand and influence each other also. As soon as we take better care of a single stage of our bodies, we all take better care of the whole system.

How does exercise deal with depression?

High-intensity exercise induces your system to deliver Endorphins instantly, which might help improve our mood degrees. But, low-intensity exercise over the years releases neurotrophic proteins (growth hormones); those enable nerve cells to grow and create new contacts. Scientists have discovered the area which will help improve mood, i.e., along with the hippocampus, is smaller.

Another extra benefit of exercise is that it may help us keep our minds off regular stresses, leading to less anxiety. Exercise can enhance our physical look and also give us a feeling of achievement, improving self-confidence. Explore the best tips from Top Rated Buyer Guides to fight depression and live a healthy and active life.

Best Exercise To Get Fight Depression:-

Going to get a Jog

Runners frequently describe the euphoric feeling. Called a Running has long-term health advantages too, having overcome depression and nervousness. If you can’t run as a result of an injury or other medical problem, look at trying cycling instead.

Yoga

The main health benefit of yoga is It Is, and The action of managing your breathing and ideas during yoga makes it possible to exercise, cleaning out the darker emotions, and focusing on the current. Learning the presents also gives you a feeling of accomplishment and provides you with knew goals to work towards, which will provide you with a feeling of purpose with every excess session. Yoga can also help enhance general sexual function or men’s wellness disease. Fildena 100mg treatment is improving men’s sexual wellness and additionally Super P Force.

Power Training

Going to the lifting weights and fitness centre Might Not Be everybody’s Cup of java, but the gradual process of building strength makes strength training a concrete kind of exercise to exploit discipline and self-control. Strength training is a great discipline for overcoming depression since it’s all about continuous improvement and achieving aims, making for an immensely satisfying experience.

Cardiovascular Exercise

Tasks that increase an individual’s heartbeat are fantastic. Aerobic exercises such as running are so well-known for their effect on an individual’s manner the expression runner’s high is well known. These briefer studies were randomly chosen some individuals to perform aerobic exercise, though other participants received medical attention.

Participants who’d exercised two to 3 times per year a Week were likely to find a decrease in depression signs versus individuals who didn’t have aerobic exercise. There was a more pronounced positive influence once the participants conducted an aerobic exercise 5 times each week. On the other hand, both aerobic bands’ changes were too small to rule out the chance that it was due to opportunity.

Breath pressure off

Studies indicate taking deep breaths in which you exhale more than you inhale the autonomic nervous system.

I’ve understood this workout increase self-esteem, decreases anxiety, and allows you to sleep better. For all those health benefits and lots more, weight training is a superb means that will assist you to decrease depression and anxiety.

Laugh

Experts say bliss may lead to physical changes in your It burns off calories. 1 study from Vanderbilt University allegedly discovered 10-15 minutes of bliss may burn 50 calories. Have a moment each day to check in the grin, mirror, and laugh. Force it in case you must. Just watching yourself will create more laughter!

Rest

Sleep and rest are all depression-prevention pursuits. It will boost your mood, hormones, hunger, and energy level if it is possible to modulate your sleep. “These variables help you’re going to bed at precisely the same time each night, waking up in the same time daily, while it’s a weekday or a weekend.”

Take these measures to encourage sleep quality and diminish Melancholy:

  • Establish a sleeping routine.
  • Sleep in serene, uncluttered surroundings.

If you are a patient of melancholy, it is Vital to Begin any physical action under supervision. Begin a workout regime just following your doctor’s recommendation, and make sure a fitness trainer monitors your regimen and monitors your progress.

Get forward by setting targets –not only physical ones since you Would do if you’re aiming at weight reduction but psychological goals like exercising. Manage yourself if you adhere to Your strategy, so you keep on track. And happier with routine exercise.

 

Erectile Dysfunction: Signs & Ways To Eliminate Its Risk

How To Detect The Early Signs Of Erectile Dysfunction & Eliminate The Risk Once And For All

Updated on May 04, 2021, 18:00 IST · 4 min read

By Snehal Sharma

This article is a repost which originally appeared on MENSXP

Edited for content.

It’s not easy to talk about sex, especially if you’re grappling with insecurities.

For the longest time, erectile dysfunction was ascribed to psychological origins. Most ancient cultures, including Ayurveda, believed that ED can be treated with the help of natural herbs such as Indian ginseng, sesame powder, Safed Musli and more.

Today, we know more about its causes and have treatments to address the issue. But before we talk about eliminating the condition, we need to dispel the stigma associated with ED.

Studies have clarified that ED is not just “in your head”. According to a 2017 study by the Department of Urology Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, 20% of men across all age groups battle ED in India and 30% of them are younger than 40.

Most of the times, it is experienced due to an underlying cause that can be treated.

But no cure is possible until men accept the problem and stop shying away from asking for help.

What Is Erectile Dysfunction?

Erectile Dysfunction (ED), also known as impotence, is a condition in which a man experiences difficulty in getting or maintaining an erection during sexual performance.

The symptoms may also include reduced sexual desire or libido. If the condition lasts for more than a few weeks or months, your doctor is likely to diagnose you with ED.

Signs Of Erectile Dysfunction

Every piece of the body—including your emotions, hormones, brain, nerves, muscles and blood vessels—plays an intricate role in male arousal. When any of these isn’t aligned, it results in some kind of dysfunction.

Your mental health impacts your sexual ability equally. Stress, anxiety and other mental health concerns can worsen erectile dysfunction.

Experiencing minor or occasional sexual problems don’t necessarily mean you’re dealing with erectile dysfunction. But lookout for the consistency of these symptoms.

● Reduced or no desire for sex.

● Inability to get an erection.

● Inability to maintain an erection.

Who Is At The Risk?

The risk of ED increases as you age, especially if you have lived a sedentary lifestyle. It can worsen if you:

● Have a psychological condition like anxiety, depression or stress.

● Have an injury that might damage the nerves and arteries that contribute to erections.

● Use tobacco, drugs or alcohol.

● Are overweight.

● Are undergoing radiation treatment for cancer.

● Are taking antidepressants or high blood pressure medications.

● Have heart disease or diabetes.

How To Prevent Erectile Dysfunction

The healthier you are, the easier it’ll be to fight erectile dysfunction. There’s no one-size-fits-all way to prevent ED but you can avoid persistent problems by taking care of its causes and yourself. The following measures may help:

● Reduce stress.

● Take care of your mental health.

● Exercise daily.

● Limit alcohol consumption.

● Quit smoking and stop using recreational drugs.

● Manage diabetes and heart disease.

How Can You Treat Erectile Dysfunction

The causes of ED vary and so does the treatment. Work with your doctor to create a plan that’s best for you.

1. Counselling

If you feel anxious, depressed or have any other mental health concern, seek therapy. Along with consulting a professional, indulge in relaxing activities such as music, painting, poetry or aromatherapy. Geranium oil helps those with low libido.

2. Ayurveda to the rescue

It’s not feasible for everyone to collect and consume the recommended herbs for sexual wellness. But you can always rely on natural supplements that provide men with the right nutrients optimised for better and stronger erections.

3. Lifestyle changes

Manage weight, exercise or do yoga consistently, stop smoking, avoid alcohol and illicit drugs and manage your health with the help of a doctor.

4. Prescribed medication

If the above treatments don’t work, your doctor may prescribe oral medications—like Viagra, Levitra, Aronix, Tadalafil, Stendra and Cialis, self-injection such as an Alprostadil or testosterone replacement.

5. Physical treatments

Penis pump or penile implants. However, these aren’t generally considered until every other treatment has failed.

Final Thoughts

Recognise the symptoms and consult a professional. If you’re diagnosed with erectile dysfunction, your doctor will help you figure out the cause of ED.

Work on the treatment options and before you know it, you’ll start seeing the results.

How Pornography Use Affects Couples Sexual Health

How Pornography Use Affects Couples Sexual Health

Emerging research provides clues on how, and for whom, pornography affects sex.

Posted Jan 11, 2021

This article is a repost which originally appeared on Psychology Today

Edited for content

According to a 2018 Gallup poll, pornography use is seen as morally acceptable among a rising percentage of Americans, moving from 30 percent approval in 2011 to 43 percent by 2018. This trend follows overall movement toward more liberal beliefs across the boards. When it comes to pornography, the biggest changes were seen among unmarried people and adult males under age 49. Factors such as religion and political orientation affect porn acceptance, with a far smaller percentage of conservative and religious people finding porn morally OK.

Despite growing acceptance, there is serious concern that pornography causes real harm: exploitation and risk to performers, damage to the capacity for healthy relationship and interfering with relationship and sexual satisfaction, addictive potential, illegal activity supporting human trafficking and child abuse, and contribution to the general societal trend to objectify and present unrealistic expectations for physical attributes as well as what healthy sexual behavior is. These are public health and human rights concerns, overlapping with moral concerns and calls for ethical porn, just as trauma and moral injury overlap, requiring greater attention and activism.

Pornography and long-term relationship

Of particular interest is the impact of pornography on marriage. According to a study in the Journal of Sexual Research (2018), pornography has a negative impact on most committed relationships. There are exceptions, but they are not typical. Looking at over 6000 couples, they found that anxiety about the relationship (anxious attachment) was associated with greater relationship satisfaction with own pornography use by men and lower satisfaction when women used porn.

Men were three times more likely to report porn use, and marginally more accepting of pornography. In general, they found that low pornography acceptance among porn users was associated with lower relationship satisfaction, though for men only higher acceptance was associated with greater relationship satisfaction. Pornography use was generally associated with anxious attachment and lower relationship satisfaction. However, work on how pornography use affects sexual satisfaction requires further study.

To understand the connection between pornography and sexual health, Vaillancort-Morel and colleagues, in their recent study in the Archives of Sexual Behavior (2021) surveyed 217 couples, including 72 same-sex couples, together at least one year, and sexually active, who completed approximately one month of daily reports.

They estimated pornography use, and whether it was solitary, with their partner, or both; sexual satisfaction on days sexually active, using the Global Measure of Sexual Satisfaction; sexual distress using the Female Sexual Distress Scale-Revised (also validated for men) estimating distress about sex life, inferiority feelings because of sexual issues, and sexual worries; sexual function via the Monash Female Sexual Satisfaction Questionnaire (with men’s version), asking about sexual desire, receptiveness, ease of arousal, quality of erection or lubrication, orgasm and experience of pleasure; and frequency of masturbation.

Findings

In terms of basic statistics, in this convenience sample, over 35 days half of couples reported pornography use on the same day they had sex. By and large, pornography use was not related to sexual health on most study measures. While future research is warranted to look at a more diverse sample, pornography use here was not associated with sexual satisfaction, ease of sexual arousal, orgasm, or pleasure, and did not strongly relate to sexual distress overall. Masturbation was unrelated to one’s own or partner’s sexual satisfaction, distress or function.

However, there were two significant findings. First, solo pornography use on days when couples had sex was related to increased partner sexual distress. The negative impact on partner distress was true for both men and women, suggesting increased feelings of inadequacy and potential lower quality of sexual engagement (e.g. the partner who used porn may have had changes in behavior and emotions during sex) on those days they had sex when their partner used pornography without them.

Study authors note that some people using pornography alone on days they had sex might have had sex with partners before using pornography, in which case partner distress may be related to later pornography use.

Second, women reported better lubrication on the days pornography was used, whereas men did not report better quality erection, the analogous measure. Authors note that prior research points toward an entourage effect, where couples pornography use is associated with greater sexual openness, that it may help couples normalize, talk about and play out sexual fantasies, and general facilitate sex positivity.

This is in line with research showing that women’s sexual satisfaction is directly related to how well women express what works for them (2017), and couples talk about and maintain a positive attitude toward, sex (2017). This can be further facilitated by couples groups in which couples speak together about intimate issues, thereby increasing overall relationship satisfaction (2017).

Further considerations

Sexual and relationship issues are on the rise, driven by COVID-19-related stress, loneliness and depression, with increased conflict and decreased intimacy (2020). For many couples, pornography has a corrosive effect, much like infidelity in some ways. As with infidelity (2019), open marriage, or parenting marriages, sexual activity outside the couple may also be stabilizing, a factor strongly affected by moral and social norms.

For other couples, those more accepting of pornography and generally sex positive, with more secure attachment to one another, pornography may be useful and pleasurable component of their sex life—as long as it does not cause insecurity in partners or negatively impact sexual behavior and attitudes. The research discussed here, while preliminary, serves as a springboard for discussion and may offer insight for some couples.

As pornography acceptance is a crucial factor, finding out how aligned partners are on pornography is a key part of talking about sexual and relationship satisfaction. Given that sexual satisfaction tends to decline in the majority of marriages over time (2019), it’s important to talk about sex openly for couples seeking long-term stability and satisfaction.

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