If you’re troubled by an embarrassing health problem, it can feel like you’re the only one suffering. However, regardless of how humiliated you might feel, it’s likely that there are others who are going through the same wellbeing woes. In this blog, we look at three health issues that are more common than you might think and what you can do to overcome them.

1. Erectile dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to get and maintain an erection, and although it can be an extremely embarrassing issue to deal with, many men experience it. It’s estimated that around 50 per cent of all men between 40 and 70 years old suffer with it at some point. It can be easy to ignore the problem altogether in the hope that it will go away by itself. However, if you experience ED for more than a few weeks, it’s vital that you do something about it. The condition can be the first sign of an underlying health condition, such as heart disease, so it’s important that you put your feelings of embarrassment aside to seek help.

Usually, ED is treated by tackling the root of the problem. For instance, making some simple lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, could help relieve your symptoms. There are also a number of targeted treatments you could try, like Viagra. For more information about how you can treat your ED, you could speak to your GP or seek advice from an online pharmacy such as Europa Pharmacy.

2. Urinary incontinence

Urinary incontinence refers to the involuntary passing of urine. It is usually caused by the muscles used to prevent urination becoming weak or damaged, or it can be a result of an overactive detrusor muscle – the muscle that controls the bladder. There are also other factors that may increase the risk of incontinence, such as pregnancy and birth, obesity and getting older. Although it’s an extremely embarrassing problem to have to deal with, it affects more people than you might think. In fact, it’s estimated that up to six million men and women in the UK suffer with urinary incontinence to some degree, so if you struggle with this particular health woe, it’s important to realise that you’re not alone.

The good news is, there are a number of ways you can keep your incontinence under control. From making some adaptations to your lifestyle, such as cutting back on caffeine and alcohol and losing weight, to exercising your pelvic floor muscles, to learning how to train your bladder with a guided specialist, there’s no need to suffer in silence with this condition. You could also try using incontinence products, such as absorbent pads.

3. Hyperhidrosis

Excessive sweating, which is also known as hyperhidrosis, is a prevalent health problem. The sweating can affect the whole body or just certain areas, such as the armpits, face, palms of the hands or soles of the feet. Although it’s not a huge health concern, it can be extremely distressing and have a negative impact on your quality of life. In some cases, it can lead to anxiety and depression. Hyperhidrosis is thought to be related to problems with the nervous system, but it can also be triggered by other factors, such as pregnancy, certain medications, low blood sugar levels and an overactive thyroid gland.

If you feel that your sweating is interfering with your daily life, it’s important that you do something about it. Although you may find it humiliating, you should start by speaking to your GP. They may suggest some simple changes, such as wearing loose fitting clothing and avoiding potential triggers, like spicy food or alcohol. If these don’t work, you may be advised to try a stronger course of treatment.

Although you may be embarrassed, it’s important that you think of your health and wellbeing. Instead of putting up with your condition, you shouldn’t be ashamed to reach out for help.