Erectile dysfunction (ED), also known as impotence, is a fairly common issue affecting men. When a man experiences ED, his penis is not able to produce enough nitric oxide (NO), or it isn’t able to move properly. In fact, 1 in 5 men reported suffering from erectile dysfunction. When ED is due to poor circulation, it can be treated with lifestyle changes and medications. Sufferers of ED are often unable to engage in intimacy with their partners. The inability to engage in sexual activity or other forms of intimacy may leave partners feeling emotionally distant and can result in issues within the relationship.
In most cases, erectile dysfunction is diagnosed during a routine physical examination. After the physical exam, your doctor may order further tests to determine if there are underlying health issues that are causing erectile dysfunction.
Causes of Erectile Dysfunction
Nerve Damage From Diabetes
Diabetes often causes nerve damage, especially in the legs and feet. This can lead to erectile dysfunction or the inability to get or maintain an erection.
Side Effects of Medication
Many medications can cause or worsen erectile dysfunction. This side effect can be temporary or permanent. Some of the most common medications that cause or worsen ED include:
- Antipsychotics
- Anti-anxiety medication
- Antidepressants
- Blood pressure medications
- Anti-inflammatories
- Beta-blockers
- Diabetes medications
- Flu medications
- Heartburn medications
- Hormone replacement therapy
- Smoking cessation medications
- Steroids
- Sleep medications
- Stimulants
- Thyroid medications
Mental Health Issues
Mental health issues can often contribute to erectile dysfunction, but there are things that you can do to improve your quality of life.
First, it’s important to see your doctor for an accurate diagnosis. In some cases, the issues that are causing erectile dysfunction can be avoided or managed.
Lifestyle Choices
Lifestyle choices, such as smoking and drinking, can lead to erectile dysfunction. Smoking and drinking can both damage blood vessels throughout the body. Erectile dysfunction can be caused by damaged blood vessels that allow blood to flow properly. This leads to a lack of blood flow to the penis and, ultimately, to erectile dysfunction.
Smoking can also lead to nerve damage and can cause impotence.
Anatomical Issues
Anatomical issues, such as tumors, a deviated septum, or congenital deformities, can cause erectile dysfunction. These issues can also affect your ability to have normal erections, even when you’re aroused.
Rectal surgery, prostate surgery, and kidney surgery can all cause erectile dysfunction.
Age-related Factors
Age is a primary risk factor for ED. This is because ED tends to develop over time. According to research, ED affects 40 percent of men over age 40.
Physical Issues
Men with erection problems may have physical issues. Problems with blood flow can make it difficult for an erection to occur. Other physical issues that can contribute to ED include:
- Obesity
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Stress
- Low testosterone
- Low thyroid hormones
- Injury or trauma
- Hormone imbalances
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