Erectile dysfunction is characterized by an inability to sustain an erection long enough for fulfilling sexual intercourse. The condition affects about 30 million men in the United States alone, even though many don't seek professional help out of humiliation.
Erectile dysfunction can be a short-term problem or a recurring long-term condition. You may have ED if:
You've never gotten an erection or are unable to get one completely
You sometimes can't get an erection even when you're sexually excited
You can get an erection, but it doesn't last long enough to fulfill your sexual needs
ED can affect anyone regardless of age or genetic factors. In most cases, it is a symptom of a more serious underlying issue, so seeking medical help is crucial.
What Causes Erectile Dysfunction?
The causes of ED can be classified into physiological, psychological, and behavioral.
Physiological Causes of Erectile Dysfunction
Systemic dysfunctions, i.e., disorders that affect the nervous, endocrine, and vascular system, can contribute to erectile dysfunction. High blood pressure, low nerve sensitivity, and irregular hormones can impact your ability to sustain an erection.
Certain diseases may also play a role in causing ED:
Arteriosclerosis
Cardiovascular disease
Chronic kidney disease
Type 2 diabetes
Multiple sclerosis
High blood pressure
Peyronie's disease
Aside from autoimmune/lifestyle diseases, ED can also be the result of trauma to the groin area. For instance:
Bladder surgery can cause ED
Physical injury to the penis, prostate, and bladder can lead to temporary or long-term ED.
Injuries to the musculoskeletal surroundings (spine, pelvis) of the male reproductive system can also cause erectile dysfunction.
Surgical procedures for prostate cancer, including radiation therapy, increase the risk of ED.
It's worth mentioning that having type 2 diabetes makes you twice as likely to develop ED. Diabetes is strongly linked to urological and sexual dysfunctions.
Psychological Causes of Erectile Dysfunction
Psychological factors can induce or exacerbate pre-existing erectile dysfunction. Poor emotional health affects mood, which can impact on hormonal distribution, thus causing ED. Such factors include:
Depression and anxiety
Low self-esteem
Stress
Fear of under-performance
Behavioral Causes of ED
Erectile dysfunction can also be a direct result of behavioral or lifestyle factors such as:
Smoking
Excessive drinking
Drug abuse
Obesity (or being overweight)
Lack of exercise
Other Causes of Erectile Dysfunction
Medicines
Sometimes ED comes as a side-effect of prescription medication. Many types of medicines are known to affect sex drive. These include:
Tranquilizers/prescription sedatives
Ulcer medication
Blood pressure medication
Antidepressants
Appetite suppressants
Anti-androgens (drugs used to treat prostate cancer)
Does Aging Cause Erectile Dysfunction?
No. Age is not linked to an increased risk of ED whatsoever. However, many age-related diseases can cause ED, which is why the condition is associated with aging.
Fortunately, ED can be treated at any age.
Is Erectile Dysfunction the Same as Impotence?
Yes. Impotence is another term for ED, although it is used sparingly by medical professionals as it has other non-medical meanings.
Who Do I Talk to About ED?
Primary care providers (family doctors, general practitioners, etc.) and specialists like urologists can diagnose and treat erectile dysfunction. You're encouraged to seek medical help for ED as it often indicates a much worse problem.
It's alright to feel a little embarrassed, although there is nothing shameful about erectile dysfunction. It is a condition, like any other, that can affect not just the quality of your sex life, but the quality of life in general. Having a good sex life is part of living a healthy life. Don't hesitate to speak to a professional if ED is getting in the way of yours.