Erectile Dysfunction: Symptoms, Causes and Prevention

Introduction

Erectile dysfunction (ED, or male impotence) refers to the inability or inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficiently for sexual activity.

Experiencing an occasional slump in sexual function is not always a reason to worry. Erectile dysfunction that is persistent, however, can lead to stress, low self-confidence, and relationship problems. Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection can be a sign that you have an underlying condition, and is a risk factor for potentially developing heart disease.

Although it might be an embarrassing topic, you should talk to your doctor if you have concerns about erectile dysfunction. Sometimes targeting the underlying cause of erectile dysfunction can be enough to reverse it.

Very often, over the counter (OTC) male enhancement pills that contain natural aphrodisiacs may be able to help, but in some cases, medication or other treatments may be necessary.

Signs Of ED

Symptoms of erectile dysfunction often include the following:

• Difficulty getting an erection
• Difficulty maintaining an erection
• A decrease in sexual desire

When should you see a doctor?

If you are experiencing erectile dysfunction, your regular doctor is the best place to begin. See your doctor if experience any of the following:

• Concerns about your erections, or other issues with your sexual health, such as delayed or premature ejaculation (PE).
• Erectile dysfunction may occur if you have diabetes, heart disease, or other known health conditions linked to ED.
• Other symptoms that may be present in addition to erectile dysfunction.

Erectile Dysfunction Causes

The complex process of male sexual arousal involves the brain, hormones, nerves and emotions, as well as muscles and blood vessels. Having a problem with any of these can cause erectile dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction can also be caused by stress or mental health issues.

Erectile dysfunction can sometimes be caused by a combination physical and psychological problems. For example, anxiety over maintaining an erection might result from an otherwise minor medical condition. Erectile dysfunction can be caused by (or made worse by) anxiety.

Physical Causes

Erectile dysfunction can often be caused by a physical condition. Here are some of the more common physical causes of ED:

• Heart disease
• HypertensionDiabetes
• SmokingLow testosterone levels
• Atherosclerosis (clogged arteries)
• Elevated cholesterol levels
• Obesity
• Metabolic Syndrome
• Some prescription medications
• Peyronie's Disease (curved penis)
• Heavy alcohol consumption
• Use of illicit drugs
• Multiple sclerosis
• Parkinson's disease
• Sleep disorders
• Prostate cancer or enlarged prostate treatment
• Injury or surgery to the spinal cord or pelvic region

Psychological Factors

The brain is instrumental in initiating the sequence of physical events that lead to erection. This includes feelings of sexual arousal. Erectile dysfunction can be caused or worsened by a variety of factors. Some common examples include:

• Anxiety, depression, and other psychological conditions
• Stress
• Relationship problems

Additional Risk Factors

As you age, it may take longer to achieve erections and they may not be as firm. Getting an erection might require a greater amount of direct contact to the penis.

Erectile dysfunction can be caused by a variety of risk factors, such as:

• Health Conditions - This especially pertains to heart conditions or diabetes
• Smoking - Smoking can lead to erectile dysfunction over time by reducing blood flow to the veins and arteries.
• Being overweight - This is particularly true if you are obese, or severely overweight.
• Some medical treatments - This includes radiation treatments for cancer, such as prostate surgery.
• Injury - Especially if there is damage to the nerves and arteries that are responsible for erections.
• Certain prescription meds - Medications used to treat depression and anxiety, hypertension, pain, and prostate conditions, as well as antihistamines.
• Psychological factors - including stress, depression, and anxiety.
• Use of alcohol or illicit drugs - Particularly with prolonged or heavy use.

Consequences of ED

Erectile dysfunction can result in many personal complications, including:

• Unsatisfying sex life
• Stress and/or anxiety
• Poor self-esteem and/or embarrassment
• Difficulties in personal relationships
• Inability to achieve a pregnancy with your partner

Preventing Erectile Dysfunction

Ideally, erectile dysfunction can be prevented by living a healthy lifestyle and managing any health conditions that you may have. Here are a few guidelines:

• To manage heart disease, diabetes, or any other chronic conditions, you should work closely with your doctor.
• Regular checkups with your doctor are also recommended.
• Don't smoke, cut back or don't drink alcohol or use any illegal drugs.
• Establish a regular exercise routine.
• Work on ways to reduce sources of stress in your life.
• Seek help for depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues.

For more information on men's sexual health and to learn about male enhancement options, visit MaleHealthReview.com.