AL SHIFA CLINIC KARACHI

Syed Intisar Hussain

Discover a Solution for Morning Glory & Morning Wood! Our Effective Treatment Options Alleviate Nocturnal Penile Tumescence & Sleep-Related Painful Erections. Don't Let Morning Erections Ruin Your Sleep. Learn More Now!

Morning Wood Is Actually Good

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Your Morning Sickness Guide

Introduction

Morning sickness affects roughly half to two-thirds of all pregnant women, especially in the first trimester. The most common signs are nausea and vomiting. Morning sickness occurs mostly early in the day, hence the name, but it can occur at any time of day or night.

&nbsp;

Morning sickness usually starts during the 4th week of pregnancy and lasts until weeks 12-14. However, 1 in every 5 women experiences morning sickness throughout their second trimester and a small fraction of unfortunate women suffer from nausea and vomiting throughout their pregnancy. In the west, the incidence of vomiting and nausea during pregnancy is about 50-80%<a href="#accordion">[1]</a>.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

In most situations, morning sickness doesn&rsquo;t affect the pregnant woman or the unborn child. However, severe morning sickness, which involves weight loss and dehydration, requires immediate medical care and assistance.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Understanding Morning Sickness in Pregnancy

Morning sickness can cause a variety of signs and symptoms, including:

<ul>
	<li>Nausea and sickness</li>
	<li>Loss of appetite, which can lead to <a href="https://merisehat.pk/disease/anorexia-nervosa">anorexia&nbsp;</a></li>
	<li>Vomiting</li>
	<li>Psychological and mental effects, which include <a href="https://merisehat.pk/disease/depression">depression </a>and <a href="https://merisehat.pk/disease/anxiety">anxiety&nbsp;</a> 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

The reason for morning sickness is unknown. However, it is believed that a combination of physical and metabolic factors plays a significant role. This includes:

<ul>
	<li>Hormonal imbalance, particularly high levels of estroge</li>
	<li>Changes in blood pressure, particularly low blood pressure</li>
	<li>Changes in the metabolism of carbohydrates</li>
	<li>Physiological changes that pregnancy provokes 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Early in pregnancy, the thyroid gland is activated, perhaps by hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) or a similar chemical that may cause gestational emesis. Increased free T4 and hCG and decreased TSH are all linked with the intensity of morning sickness, and, according to a study, these changes are more pronounced in participants who also experienced nausea and vomiting<a href="#accordion">[2]</a>.

&nbsp;

<h5>Is Morning Sickness Harmful to Baby?</h5>

Some mothers are worried that the action of vomiting may harm their unborn child. The physical mechanics of vomiting and retching do not harm the unborn child, but it may strain the abdominal muscles and cause localized pain, discomfort, and soreness. Nevertheless, the fetus remains well-cushioned and protected within its amniotic fluid sac. Several studies have found that mild morning sickness is associated with a lower chance of miscarriage.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

On the other hand, prolonged vomiting that leads to dehydration and weight loss can deprive the fetus of sufficient nourishment and increase the risk of the baby being underweight at birth. 
&nbsp;

Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG), which is also known as severe morning sickness, affects approximately 1 in every 1000 pregnant women<a href="#accordion">[3]</a>. The signs and symptoms of HG are frequent vomiting, weight loss, and dehydration. Hospitalization and the administration of intravenous fluid and nourishment is necessary to treat it.

&nbsp;

Untreated hyperemesis gravidarum may lead to the following possible complications:

<ul>
	<li>Electrolyte imbalances</li>
	<li>Severe anxiety, sadness, and despair</li>
	<li>Malnourishment of the fetus</li>
	<li>Severe stress on essential organs, such as the liver, heart, kidneys, and brain 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Doctors usually recommend vitamin B-6 supplements (pyridoxine), ginger, and over-the-counter medications, like doxylamine (Unisom), for management. If nausea and other symptoms of morning sickness persist, they may prescribe anti-nausea medicine. 
&nbsp;

<h5>Does Morning Sickness Cause Electrolyte Imbalance?</h5>

Mild to severe pregnancy related nausea and vomiting can usually cause dehydration and electrolyte (e.g., sodium or potassium) imbalance. For mild to severe morning sickness, more fluids and prescription drugs are suggested.

&nbsp;

A healthcare provider will discuss it with the expecting mother how frequently they have experienced nausea, the number of times they vomited, their ability to keep fluids down, and whether they tried any home remedies. For nausea and vomiting, there are a number of prescription drugs that are safe to take during pregnancy, but it all depends on the severity of the symptoms exhibited.

&nbsp;

It&#39;s best to consult with a doctor before taking any over-the-counter drugs or supplements during pregnancy. Especially if it&rsquo;s a case of hyperemesis gravidarum, which requires close monitoring and treatment with intravenous (IV) fluids and anti-nausea medications at a hospital. 
&nbsp;

To help ease symptoms of morning sickness:

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Select Foods Carefully</li>
</ul>

Avoid oily, spicy, and fatty foods. Instead, opt for foods that are high in protein, low in fat, and easy to digest. Bananas, rice, applesauce, bread, and other bland foods are relatively easy to digest. Adding some ginger to your food can be beneficial at times. For some pregnant women, herbal ginger supplements appear to ease morning sickness. The majority of evidence suggests that ginger can be consumed safely during pregnancy, but there is some risk that ginger may interfere with fetal sex hormones.

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Snack Frequently</li>
</ul>

Eat a couple of soda crackers or a piece of dry toast before getting out of bed in the morning. Instead of eating three large meals, snack throughout the day; this helps keep the stomach from becoming too full or empty, either of which may worsen nausea.

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Drink Plenty Of Liquids&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Drink some water or ginger ale. Every day, consume 6-8 glasses of non-caffeinated beverages to stay hydrated.

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Steer Clear Of Nausea Triggers</li>
</ul>

Keep an eye out for foods or odors that seem to worsen nausea. Having a backup plan, like carrying snacks or essential oils (aromatherapy), is helpful in case of social gatherings to avoid nausea.&nbsp; &nbsp;

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Inhale Fresh Air</li>
</ul>

If the weather permits, open the windows at home or workplace. Take a walk outside every day. It&rsquo;s soothing for the senses and can, therefore, act as a remedy for morning sickness.

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Follow Prenatal Vitamins Guidelines</li>
</ul>

If the nausea hits after taking the prenatal vitamins, take them with a snack or right before bed. If these steps don&#39;t work, consult a doctor about alternate ways to get the iron and vitamins needed for a healthy pregnancy.

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Rinse With Water After Vomiting</li>
</ul>

The acid from the stomach can erode tooth enamel. If possible, rinse with a cup of water mixed with a teaspoon of baking soda. This will help in the neutralization of the acid and protect teeth as well. 
&nbsp;

Several alternative therapies for morning sickness have been suggested, including:

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Acupressure</li>
</ul>

Acupressure wristbands are accessible in most pharmacies without a prescription. Acupressure wristband studies have shown different results, but some women claim to find the wristbands beneficial.

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Acupuncture</li>
</ul>

A qualified practitioner inserts hair-thin needles into the skin for acupuncture. Although it seems to help some women, acupuncture isn&#39;t a proven treatment for morning sickness.

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Hypnosis</li>
</ul>

Despite the lack of study on the subject, some women have experienced relief from morning sickness through hypnosis.

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Aromatherapy</li>
</ul>

Although there is limited study on the subject, particular aromas typically made using essential oils can help some women deal with morning sickness.

&nbsp;

NOTE:&nbsp;Some women are tempted to use marijuana as a way to relieve sickness and nausea if they reside in a place where it&#39;s legal. However, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists advises pregnant women not to consume marijuana because the drug&#39;s effects on the mother and fetus have not been well researched. Additionally, chronic marijuana usage may also cause nausea and vomiting syndrome, which is also known as cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome.

&nbsp;

Consult a doctor before taking any herbal remedies or alternative treatments to ease the symptoms of morning sickness.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Moderate nausea and vomiting during pregnancy are unlikely to cause any difficulties for the mother or the fetus.

&nbsp;

If left untreated, however, severe nausea and vomiting can lead to dehydration, an electrolyte imbalance, decreased urination, and hospitalization. The research on whether hyperemesis gravidarum affects poor weight gain in the fetus is unclear. 
&nbsp;

<h4>How To Prevent Morning Sickness?</h4>

Morning sickness cannot be totally prevented. However, avoiding triggers such as strong scents, severe fatigue, spicy foods, and sugary foods helps. 
&nbsp;

Morning sickness can affect any pregnant woman, although it may be more frequent if the expecting mother has:

<ul>
	<li>Experienced nausea or vomiting due to motion sickness, migraines, particular scents or tastes, or estrogen exposure (for example, in birth control pills) prior to the pregnancy</li>
	<li>Experienced morning sickness in their previous pregnancy</li>
	<li>A pregnancy with twins or other multiples 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

They are more likely to develop hyperemesis gravidarum if:

<ul>
	<li>They are pregnant with a girl</li>
	<li>They have a family history of hyperemesis gravidarum</li>
	<li>They have already experienced hyperemesis gravidarum during a previous pregnancy&nbsp; 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<h5>Is A Doctor Consultation Necessary?</h5>

Always consult a doctor if the morning sickness feels really bad, if there&rsquo;s a sudden and extreme decrease in body weight, or if there&rsquo;s an unexplained sense of sadness or anxiety. They can prescribe a medication that will not harm your or your developing baby. 
&nbsp;

<h5>1.&nbsp;Morning Sickness Only Occurs in the Morning</h5>

It&rsquo;s a wrong concept. Morning sickness can occur at any time throughout the day. Morning sickness is named after the fact that most women feel nausea and vomiting in the morning. However, nothing guarantees that they won&#39;t feel sick at other times of the day or be sick all day and all night.

&nbsp;

<h5>2. Nausea and Vomiting are The Only Signs of Morning Sickness</h5>

Wrong again. While they are the most frequent signs and symptoms, other symptoms of morning sickness include dizziness, lightheadedness, motion sickness, and excessive salivation. None of these symptoms is pleasant and some of them, such as motion sickness, can cause nausea and vomiting.

&nbsp;

<h5>3. Don&rsquo;t Try to Eat Anything</h5>

This is bad advice. Contrary to belief, eating can occasionally help with morning sickness. Eating small meals throughout the day and a light snack before bed helps to control the blood sugar and keep morning sickness symptoms at bay. Simply avoid foods that can upset the stomach.

&nbsp;

<h5>4. Every Woman Experiences Morning Sickness</h5>

This is not true. Some women never suffer from morning sickness, no matter how many children they have. No signs of morning sickness should not be a matter of concern. Just breathe a sigh of relief.

&nbsp;

<h5>5. Morning Sickness Causes Malnutrition in the Developing Baby</h5>

It may appear that vomiting is depriving the unborn baby of essential nutrients, but this is not the case. They will get enough nutrition to develop and grow if the mother&rsquo;s consuming small meals throughout the day. It&#39;s best to consult your OB/GYN and nutritionist to create a meal plan suitable for you. 
&nbsp;

Conclusion

Everyone has an opinion and a solution for morning sickness. The issue is that morning sickness is not a one-size-fits-all problem with a single treatment. Every woman is unique. In fact, some women may suffer from morning sickness during one pregnancy but not in their next pregnancy! Morning sickness can be unpleasant and can have a negative impact on the daily life of the expecting mother. However, it normally clears itself by weeks 16-20 of a pregnancy and generally poses no harm to the fetus. However, in rare cases like hyperemesis gravidarum, hospitalization is a must.&nbsp;

Key Points

<ul><li>Morning sickness is characterized by nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. Even though it is known as morning sickness, it can occur at any time of the day.</li><li>Morning sickness typically begins at 6 weeks of pregnancy and ends in the second trimester.</li><li>Hormone imbalances, blood pressure irregularities, and alterations in carbohydrate metabolism are all possible causes.</li><li>Hyperemesis gravidarum is characterized by severe nausea and vomiting that demands medical attention (typically in a hospital) to help the individual recover.</li><li>The signs and symptoms of morning sickness can be eased by eating a few dry crackers before getting out of bed, avoiding foods and scents that make the person nauseous, drinking enough liquids, and eating high-carbohydrate and high-protein foods.</li></ul>

[1] STRONG Jr TH. Alternative therapies of morning sickness. Clin Obstet Gynecol. 2001;44(4):653–60.

[2] Mori M, Amino N, Tamaki H, Miyai K, Tanizawa O. Morning sickness and thyroid function in normal pregnancy. Obstet Gynecol [Internet]. 1988 Sep;72(3 Pt 1):355—359.

[3] Fejzo MS, Trovik J, Grooten IJ, Sridharan K, Roseboom TJ, Vikanes Å, et al. Nausea and vomiting of pregnancy and hyperemesis gravidarum. Nat Rev Dis Prim. 2019;5(1):1–17.

Neelam Asad

Madeeha Syed

This article or video has been vetted and verified by Meri Sehat’s specialists. It contains citations and research from validated sources.

Kickstarting Weight Loss: 10 Morning Habits To Embrace

Overview

The morning sets the tone for the rest of the day. By adopting a series of intentional habits, you can jumpstart your weight loss journey and create a positive foundation for achieving your fitness goals. 
&nbsp;

series of Morning Habits

<h5>1. Hydration Kickstart: Begin With A Glass Of Water</h5>

Drinking a glass of water as soon as you wake up helps kickstart your <a href="https://merisehat.pk/article/weight-loss-tips-avoid-these-8-habits-slowing-down-your-metabolism">metabolism </a>and hydrates your body after hours of sleep-induced dehydration. 
&nbsp;

<h5>2. Mindful Breakfast: Opt For Nutrient-Rich Choices</h5>

Choose a balanced breakfast that includes lean protein, whole grains, and healthy fats. A nutritious breakfast stabilizes blood sugar levels, reduces cravings, and provides sustained energy. 
&nbsp;

<h5>3. Morning Movement: Engage In Light Exercise</h5>

Whether it&#39;s a brisk walk, a few yoga stretches, or bodyweight exercises, incorporating light movement in the morning boosts circulation, metabolism, and overall energy levels. 
&nbsp;

<h5>4. Mindful Eating: Eat Slowly And Mindfully</h5>

During meals, focus on your food and eat slowly. Mindful eating promotes better digestion, prevents overeating, and allows your brain to register when you&#39;re full. 
&nbsp;

<h5>5. Protein-Packed Breakfast: Prioritize Protein</h5>

Protein-rich breakfasts keep you feeling full and satisfied, reducing the likelihood of overeating later in the day. Incorporate eggs, Greek yogurt, or plant-based protein sources. 
&nbsp;

<h5>6. Set Positive Intentions: Visualize Your Day</h5>

Take a few moments to set positive intentions for the day ahead. Visualize yourself making healthy choices and achieving your weight loss goals. 
&nbsp;

<h5>7. Meal Prep: Plan Your Meals</h5>

If possible, plan your meals and snacks for the day. Having healthy options readily available reduces the likelihood of making impulsive, less nutritious choices. 
&nbsp;

<h5>8. Get Sunlight Exposure: Step Outside</h5>

Exposing yourself to natural sunlight in the morning helps regulate your circadian rhythm, improves mood, and supports overall well-being. 
&nbsp;

<h5>9. Fiber Boost: Prioritize Fiber-Rich Foods</h5>

Include high-fiber foods in your breakfast, such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Fiber aids digestion, promotes satiety, and stabilizes blood sugar levels. 
&nbsp;

<h5>10. Positive Affirmations: Practice Self-Encouragement</h5>

Engage in positive self-talk and affirmations. Cultivating a positive mindset helps reduce stress and emotional eating, contributing to a healthier lifestyle. 
&nbsp;

Bottom Line

The morning is a powerful time to lay the foundation for your weight loss journey. By adopting these intentional habits, you create a proactive and positive start to your day. Remember that consistency is key, and over time, these habits can lead to significant progress in your pursuit of a healthier, happier you.

Rukhsana Rizwan

Understanding Erection Loss: Causes And Concerns In Men

Sexual performance can be a source of pride and pleasure for many men, but what happens when things don&#39;t go as planned? Losing an erection in the middle of intercourse is a common concern that can lead to anxiety and self-doubt. In this article, we will examine the various factors that can contribute to this issue, offering insights into why it happens and when it might be a cause for concern. 
&nbsp;

Erection Loss

<h5>Psychological Factors</h5>

<ul>
	<li>Performance Anxiety: Fear of not satisfying a partner or living up to societal expectations can trigger <a href="https://merisehat.pk/disease/anxiety">anxiety</a>, making it challenging to maintain an erection.</li>
	<li>Stress And Relationship Issues: Stressors in life, as well as conflicts within a relationship, can manifest as sexual difficulties, including erection loss. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<h5>Physical Factors</h5>

<ul>
	<li>Fatigue And Lack Of Sleep: Exhaustion and inadequate rest can affect a man&#39;s ability to maintain an erection during intercourse.</li>
	<li>Medications And Health Conditions: Certain medications, chronic illnesses, and hormonal imbalances can interfere with erectile function.</li>
	<li>Alcohol And Substance Abuse: Excessive alcohol or drug use can impair sexual performance, leading to difficulties in maintaining an erection. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<h5>Age-Related&nbsp;Changes</h5>

<ul>
	<li>Natural Decline In Testosterone: As men age, their testosterone levels may decrease, which can impact erectile function. However, this is a gradual process and not necessarily a cause for immediate concern. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<ul>
	<li>Consistent Issues: If the problem of losing an erection persists and becomes a recurring occurrence, it&#39;s essential to seek medical advice. Consistent problems could be indicative of an underlying health issue that requires attention. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Sudden Onset: If a man experiences a sudden and unexplained loss of erections in the middle of intercourse, especially if it is accompanied by pain or discomfort, it&#39;s crucial to consult a healthcare professional promptly. This could signal a more serious health problem. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Other Symptoms: If erectile issues are accompanied by other concerning symptoms, such as difficulty urinating, changes in libido, or unusual pain, these should not be ignored. They may be indicative of underlying health conditions that require medical evaluation. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<ul>
	<li>Open Communication: One of the most crucial steps in addressing erectile issues is open communication with a partner. Discussing concerns and fears can help alleviate anxiety and strengthen emotional bonds. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Lifestyle Changes: Making positive lifestyle changes, such as managing stress, getting regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy diet, can improve overall sexual health. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Medical Consultation: If the issue persists or is accompanied by other worrying symptoms, seeking help from a healthcare professional, such as a urologist, is advisable. They can conduct tests, provide a diagnosis, and recommend appropriate treatments, which may include medications, therapy, or lifestyle adjustments. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Losing an erection in the middle of intercourse can happen to any man at some point in their life, and it&#39;s essential not to let it create undue stress or anxiety. Understanding the various factors at play, knowing when to be concerned, and seeking help when needed can lead to improved sexual well-being and overall confidence. Remember that open communication and professional advice are valuable tools in addressing and resolving these common concerns.

I could see this like a tent,

Made by my own content,

Only happened this event,

Because I am a gent,

Enjoying my mighty manhood again

It&rsquo;s nice to get morning wood again.

&nbsp;

Not many people are able to wrap their heads around the idea of a morning wood. And even though it&rsquo;s pretty much backed by science, the topic is still off-limits, stigmatized and causes shame to the one experiencing it. A man gets offensive nicknames or even bullied, if it&rsquo;s a frequent occurrence and on the flipside the pressure still exists if he can&rsquo;t get it up or if he can&rsquo;t keep it up for long. These sexual pressures can be intense especially for young, impulsive boys, and can unfortunately result in suicide. According to a study carried out in the US, 21% of teens commit suicide due to sexual pressures<a href="#accordion">[1]</a>.

&nbsp;

Morning wood is a very natural and healthy phenomenon. It is medically termed as Nocturnal penile tumescence (NPT), i.e., a spontaneous erection of the penis during sleep or when waking up. It is also known as sleep-related erection, morning glory or morning wood.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The most important thing to understand here is that NPT, in no capacity, is an explanation of your sexual desires or arousal. In fact, it is a reassurance that the neurovasculature (nerves and vessels) of your reproductive system is intact. The blood is flowing where it should and you are getting enough sensations there to actively feel it. This spontaneous erection displays good health, and the absence of it could be indicative of a wide range of issues e.g. <a href="https://merisehat.pk/disease/erectile-dysfunction" target="_blank">erectile dysfunction (ED)</a> to low levels of testosterone, an important hormone of the male reproductive system<a href="#accordion">[2]</a>. It is important to consult your healthcare practitioner to determine the underlying cause and commence treatment.&nbsp;&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Understanding Importance of Nocturnal Penile Tumescence (NPT)

There are multiple reasons as to why you get uninitiated erections. The most common one is when you get rapid eye movement sleep (REM sleep). You will frequently transition into this stage during your sleep cycle. According to studies, men slip into REM sleep about 90 minutes after sleeping and each episode of REM sleep produces an erection lasting 20-25 minutes<a href="#accordion">[3]</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

But, it&rsquo;s not just during sleep; men can get erections when they wake up right after a REM sleep phase, too! This has been linked to the high levels of testosterone during the REM phase.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The science behind this connection is that during REM, norepinephrine production slows down and testosterone takes command. Another theory is that there&rsquo;s an increased production of nitric oxide during the REM phase; nitric oxide is a vasodilator and thus there&rsquo;s greater blood flow to the penile vessels.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

All in all, it indicates a healthy and totally normal bodily function. There are studies that have been using NPT as a clinical indicator tracking the response of ED treatment and sexual health of individuals<a href="#accordion">[3]</a>.&nbsp;

<div>&nbsp;</div>

Not being able to achieve nocturnal penile tumescence can be a sign of serious health issues going on in the body. The most worrisome reason would be ED, a condition in which a man either doesn&rsquo;t achieve an erection or has a problem maintaining it.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

NPT also helps your health care provider to rule out other diseases. For example, if a person gets ample NPTs but cannot maintain an erection during intercourse, it signifies that at least the neurovasculature of the penis is intact and the doctor can consider other possibilities such as<a href="#accordion">[4]</a>:&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Cardiovascular disease</li>
	<li>Atherosclerosis (clogged arteries)</li>
	<li>Hypertension (high blood pressure)</li>
	<li>Diabetes Type 2</li>
	<li>Multiple Sclerosis</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

It is important to bear in mind that the frequency of NPT is also determined by our daily life choices such as our dietary habits and/or physical activity. For e.g., excessive use of alcohol, use of illicit drugs, and a sedentary lifestyle may cause a delay in your flight&rsquo;s takeoff<a href="#accordion">[5]</a>.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

One important factor that ultimately leads to anything and everything is mental health. Issues like stress, anxiety, and depression may cause either Psychogenic ED or just reduce the REM phase, which at the end affects your NPT. Therefore, it&rsquo;s not only nuts you should be worried about, to ensure an efficient mental state, you need to learn to relax as well<a href="#accordion">[5]</a>.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

You need to check a few things in order to get a clear picture of your NPT. Absence of NPT signifies some underlying health issues, which might also affect your ability to reproduce.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Following are the factors that may help correct any non-serious temporary condition<a href="#accordion">[4]</a>:

&nbsp;

1. Being Physically Active

Exercising and being active generally allows your cardiovascular system to work efficiently. Furthermore, it would correct any blood flow issues (if any). It is recommended that adults get at least 150 minutes of workout every week. However, any regimen must be initiated after consultation with your doctor.

&nbsp;

2. Reduce Weight

Studies prove that people who are obese&nbsp; have a three fold higher risk of developing ED compared to individuals with a healthy BMI. Therefore, it&rsquo;s time to shed and keep off those extra kilos.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

3. Alcohol Limitation

Research proves that higher alcohol intake is associated with ED and unsatisfactory intercourse. Limit your daily alcohol intake to 2 drinks per day.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

4.&nbsp; Avoid Smoking

Smoking affects how blood is pumped throughout the body. This includes your penile vasculature as well. Poor cardiovascular health leads to ED. Consult your health care provider on the various options you can use to quit smoking.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Recent research shows that if you are unable to get your morning glory, it might be an early indication of clogged vessels. These clogged vessels could occur in any part of the body, and are not necessarily limited to the reproductive system. Hence, you can be at a higher risk of getting a stroke or even heart attack within a span of 3-5 years. According to Dr Leen Antonio, lead researcher and assistant professor of endocrinology at Katholieke Universiteit Leuven: &ldquo;Erectile dysfunction and poor morning erections are associated with increased mortality&quot;<a href="#accordion">[6]</a>.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Getting an erection is as normal as any other physiological process of the body. It should be understood that it is not something to be ashamed about. You need a medical evaluation if you haven’t got an erection in a long time. NPT or morning wood, especially, since NPT is not just related to your sexual health or performance, but is also an indicator of your overall health, and must be taken seriously. <div> </div>

<ul><li>According to a study carried out in the US, 21% of teens commit suicide due to sexual pressures.</li><li>Morning wood is a very natural and healthy phenomenon. It is also known as Nocturnal penile tumescence (NPT).</li><li>Nocturnal penile tumescence is spontaneous erection of the penis during sleep or after you wake up.</li><li>NPT is a reassurance that the neuro-vasculature (nerves and vessels) of your reproductive system is intact.</li><li>Absence of NPT can be due to multiple reasons ranging from erectile dysfunction (ED) to low levels of testosterone, which is an important hormone of the male reproductive system.</li><li>NPT occurs during the rapid eye movement (REM) phase of the sleep cycle.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Each episode of REM sleep produces an erection lasting 20- 25 minutes.</li><li>Testosterone levels are reportedly at their highest when you wake up.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>The science behind this connection between REM phase and NPT is that during REM, norepinephrine production slows down and it lets testosterone take command.</li><li>Also the production of nitric oxide&nbsp; increases during the REM phase. Since nitric oxide is a vasodilator, it means more blood flows to the penile vessels.</li><li>There are studies that have been using NPT as a clinical indicator to track the response of Erectile Dysfunction (ED) treatment and sexual health of individuals.</li><li>The most worrisome reason for not getting an NPT is Erectile Dysfunction (ED), a condition in which a man either doesn’t achieve an erection or has a problem maintaining it.</li><li>Your dietary habits and physical activity reflects on your erection, too.</li><li>Excessive use of alcohol, any use of illicit drugs, and a sedentary lifestyle makes it hard to get an erection as well.</li><li>Issues like stress, anxiety and depression may cause either Psychogenic ED or just reduce the REM phase, which ultimately affects your NPT.</li><li>You should try to stay physically active, ensure a healthy body mass index, and avoid alcohol, illicit drugs and smoking to achieve NPT.</li><li>However, if the symptom persists, you should consult with your doctor.</li><li>New research shows that if you are unable to get your morning glory, it may be due to clogged vessels in the body.&nbsp;</li><li>It has been stated that: “Erectile dysfunction and poor morning erections are associated with increased mortality”.</li></ul>