What causes erectile dysfunction?
Erections occur when a man is sexually aroused. This can either occur through physical or mental stimulation. Signals are sent out through the nervous system to release chemicals that enable an increased blood supply to the penis. This increased blood flow causes an erection.
Erectile dysfunction is the clinical term used for problems with erections. Problems which occur can be either physical, psychological, or a combination of both.
Who does it affect?
Erectile dysfunction is a surprisingly common. It has been estimated that at least 1 in 10 men have had some sort of erectile dysfunction at some stage in their lives.
Due to the embarrassment and even shame which has been attached to this condition, many men do not seek treatment. Erectile dysfunction is more common as people age, although it can affect any man over the age of puberty.
Causes
Reasons for erectile dysfunction can vary. they can be physical, psychological, a mixture of both, or a reaction to medication. Around one-third of all cases will be purely psychological and will often respond well to non-clinical treatments such as counselling.
Some of the most common physical causes of erectile dysfunction include:
- Vascular: A reduction in the flow of blood to the penis resulting in erectile dysfunction. The main causes are usually conditions narrowing arteries and which can result in poor blood circulation, high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke. It causes about half the cases of erectile dysfunction in men over 50.
- Neurological (nervous system): Illnesses such as diabetes and multiple sclerosis cause eventual deterioration of the nervous system, blocking the signals which tell the body to develop an erection. It has been estimated that 71% of men with multiple sclerosis will experience erectile dysfunction.
- Surgical/trauma: Injuries to the nervous system can also affect signals leading to erection.
- Pharmacological (drugs): Many drugs have an effect on sexual functioning. Alcohol and recreational drugs can have an effect. Prescribed medications can also result in some degree of erectile dysfunction.
- Endocrine (glands which deliver natural chemicals into the blood): Diabetes, hypothyroidism and hyperpituiterism are amongst the endocrine disorders which can cause erectile dysfunction.
- Kidney disorder: About 75% of those on dialysis may experience erectile dysfunction, but this can improve with transplantation.
Psychiatric conditions and the medication provided to treat these can also case erectile dysfunction. Almost 90% of men with severe depression are affected. With Alzheimer's disease, 53% of men are affected.
- Some anti-depressives are capable of causing erectile dysfunction. Speak to your doctor if you believe your medication could be a problem.
- Some anti-hypertensive drugs for high blood pressure can also cause erectile dysfunction.
Diagnosis
It is important that all erectile dysfunction is discussed with your doctor, as it can be an indicator of other problems requiring treatment.
How can Erectile Dysfunction be treated?
There is a wide range of effective treatments now available, each with advantages and disadvantages that have to be considered by the individual with medical advice.
Treatments can include counselling, injectable treatments, oral medication, vacuum devices and penile rings.
Prevention
Avoiding excessive alcohol will help in preventing and/or improving many cases of impotence. Check with your doctor whether any drugs you are taking could be part of the problem.
