Erectile dysfunction (ED), commonly called impotence, is the inability to get or sustain an erection long enough for sexual intercourse to be effective. This has been shown to impair sexual performance and confidence. It is a relatively prevalent ailment, especially among elderly men.
Fortunately, remedies for erectile dysfunction have advanced substantially, and with the appropriate selection, you will be able to engage in full sexual activity once again.
Which of the following are the primary causes of erectile dysfunction?
You require a healthy blood supply, a healthy nerve system, and sexual desire to keep an erection. Numerous physiological and psychological disorders may have an adverse effect on all areas of your sexual life, resulting in ED. Men over the age of 40, for example, may have an underlying medical issue that contributes to their ED.
Causes of erectile dysfunction on a physical level
- Blood vessel constriction
Blood arteries may become constricted as a consequence of high blood pressure, cholesterol, or diabetes. Because ED might be the first indicator of these disorders, it is critical to screen for them. Men who suffer from atherosclerosis (a thickening and stiffness of the blood vessel walls) often also struggle with ED. This is because the same process that occurs in the blood vessels of the heart also occurs in the blood vessels of the penis.
- Hormonal dysregulation
ED may sometimes be caused by a hormonal imbalance. Hormonal imbalances might manifest itself in the form of rapid weight gain, rapid weight reduction, or decreased sexual desire. ED may be the lone sign of a hormonal imbalance in certain circumstances.
- Nervous system disorders
Numerous disorders impair the nerve supply, including spinal injuries, Parkinson’s disease, and Multiple Sclerosis. In many cases, the nerve issue develops before to the onset of ED. Certain procedures, such as radical prostatectomy, that require the severance of nerves as part of the procedure might also result in ED.
Can a constrictive foreskin contribute to erectile dysfunction?
Changes in the physical anatomy of the penis might make erections more difficult to obtain. Peyronie’s disease (a bending of the erect penis), phimosis (a constricted foreskin), or a constricted frenulum (the elastic patch of skin connecting the foreskin to the penis shaft) may all result in ED.
Are you seeking therapy for erectile dysfunction?
Use our convenient online service.
Medications that might induce erectile dysfunction
Certain regularly recommended medications may induce ED. Medications used to treat depression, mental disorder, heart disease, high blood pressure, and prostate problems are all possible suspects. However, since some medications are prescribed for serious diseases, you should get guidance from your physician.
Psychological factors that contribute to erectile dysfunction
Psychological considerations account for a significant proportion of ED patients. The most frequent psychological factors are as follows:
- Stress — when the brain is under stress, it becomes more difficult to maintain attention on intercourse, particularly when cortisol (the body’s stress hormone) levels rise.
- Trauma – ED may develop as a result of childhood maltreatment or sexual trauma in certain situations.
- Depression – a chemical imbalance in the brain may impair sexual desire as well as function. Consult your physician if you are experiencing symptoms of depression.
- Relationship difficulties – if you are concerned about your relationship in general, it is possible that your sexual life suffers.
- Performance anxiety — the inability to maintain an erection may be stressful in and of itself, resulting in a downward spiral.
Factors in one’s lifestyle that contribute to erectile dysfunction
There is a strong association between an unhealthy lifestyle and ED, according to studies. Numerous physical diseases and practises that are detrimental to your health might also impair your capacity to maintain an erection, including the following:
- Elevated cholesterol – if your arteries get blocked with cholesterol, they restrict blood flow, impairing your erection.
- Smoking – causes damage to your blood vessels, and ED is often the consequence of insufficient blood supply.
- Alcohol – While many feel alcohol is an aphrodisiac, excessive drinking may result in transient ED and long-term alcohol consumption can impair sexual desire.
- Recreational drug usage – many recreational drugs actually have a detrimental impact on sexual function, rather than boosting sexual pleasure.
- Sedentary lifestyle — being sedentary makes it more difficult to maintain a healthy weight and has a detrimental effect on your heart.
- Being overweight — excess weight may raise blood pressure and increase your chance of developing blood vessel disease, which can result in ED.
COVID-19 and erectile dysfunction
Since the COVID-19 outbreak, several men have reported having their first episode of ED. And studies indicate that this is most likely a result of contracting COVID-19. Discover the relationship between COVID-19 and erectile dysfunction.
Treatments for erectile dysfunction
If you are having ED, it is essential that you visit your doctor to rule out any underlying medical issues. They will ask you questions about your symptoms and do some easy tests to ensure that you are counselled on the best course of action for your particular circumstances.
Alternatively, if you’re contemplating therapy with Viagra or Cialis but don’t want to have a face-to-face consultation, you may have an online evaluation with one of our HSE-trained experts.
References