Causes of Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction is a condition that impacts the sex lives of millions of men around the world. Though erectile dysfunction (also called impotence) is a common issue suffered by millions, men usually remain silent about their sexual troubles. Luckily, impotence can be treated. But, in order to seek treatment for it, you should first understand some of the potential causes of erectile dysfunction. This article gives an overview of many things that could lead to impotence in men.

Erectile Dysfunction Can Start In Your Head

Often, impotence is caused by psychological factors. That is, what happens in your brain can impact what happens beneath your waist. For example, if you experience a lot of stress or anxiety, this could lead to erectile dysfunction. Similary, depression or low self-esteem could result in erectile dysfunction. At times, a man may even feel guilty that he is not able to satisfy his partner. This feeling of guilt can lead to impotence.

Erectile Dysfunction Can Start In Your Medicine Cabinet

These days, people take medications for a wide variety of illnesses and conditions. But, these medications and prescriptions can lead to or exacerbate erectile dysfunction. For example, many men take Prozac to deal with depression. Prozac has been considered a potential cause of impotence for years. Some muscle relaxants such as Norflex can also lead to erectile dysfunction. Other drugs can lead to erectile dysfunction such as nicotine, cocaine and marijuana as well as consuming large amounts of alcohol.

Diabetes Can Cause Erectile Dysfunction

Some estimates claim that up to 70% of men with diabetes will experience some level of impotence. In the case of diabetes, erectile dysfunction is often caused by a restriction of blood and impulses through the blood vessels and nerves. While men with diabetes can sometimes resolve their inability to get an erection by taking Viagra, it can be dangerous as diabetics often have heart problems.

Prostate Cancer Can Lead To Erectile Dysfunction

Prostate cancer typically will not cause erectile dysfunction. But, the treatments that are used to battle the cancer can often lead to the same result. For example, when a patient with prostate cancer undergoes radiation therapy, the radiation treatment will often cause impotence. The same thing often happens when hormone therapy is used to treat prostate cancer.

Erectile Dysfunction Can Start With Your Lifestyle

The way men treat their bodies can also lead to impotence. For example, heavy smokers have reported suffering from erectile dysfunction. This is likely due to the arterties becoming hard and restricting blood flow to the penis. Also, habitually high cholesterol levels can damage the blood vessels that are required to get and sustain an erection.

Keeping silent about their impotence is the worst thing a man can do. Talk with your doctor about erectile dysfunction. Don't be embarrassed to discuss possible treatments with your doctor. That is the quickest way to deal with impotence.