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- $Unique_ID{BRK00857}
- $Pretitle{}
- $Title{Why Does Aging Reduce a Man's Potency?}
- $Subject{sex potency age aging old elderly geriatric Genitourinary behavior
- behaviors psychological erection semen erections decreased libido impotence
- penis impotent potent}
- $Volume{J-23,T-15}
- $Log{}
-
- Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993 Tribune Media Services, Inc.
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- Why Does Aging Reduce a Man's Potency?
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- QUESTION: I am nearing fifty and find myself worrying about my ability to
- perform sexually as I get older. Why does aging reduce a man's potency?
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- ANSWER: First of all, one's sexuality is largely a psychological issue; the
- better you feel about yourself, the more you'll enjoy sex. If you see
- yourself as aging and growing impotent, you're starting off with two strikes
- against yourself.
- There are physiologic changes to deal with as part of aging, but none of
- these mean an end to sexual activity. There's usually a gradual decline in
- the frequency of sex, but this is tied to a number of factors, including
- general health, educational level and social status, overall life satisfaction
- and sexual experience.
- The time needed to achieve an erection does increase with aging, while
- the amount of semen and the force with which it is ejaculated is reduced.
- Other effects of aging include a rapid loss of erection and a longer wait
- until the next erection.
- Statistically, impotence occurs in 25% of men at age 65, and half of men
- aged 75. Endocrine disorders are rarely responsible, but should be
- considered. Psychologically, a decreased libido can lead to a sudden onset of
- impotence, and is associated with stress, depression or chronic illness.
- Vascular disorders or insufficient circulation (a common symptom of aging) may
- also be at fault while a variety of drugs and medications are known to cause
- the condition.
- Neurological causes, diseases affecting the penis directly, and a variety
- of miscellaneous conditions can also lead to impotence. However, an active
- sex life so far is the main guarantee for sexual satisfaction in the future.
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- The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
- the counsel and advice of your personal physician. Promptly consulting your
- doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
- problem.
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