Erectile dysfunction (ED) can be caused by a variety of physical, psychological, and lifestyle factors. Some common causes of ED include:
- Physical causes: ED can be caused by obesity, smoking, alcoholism and physical health problems where:
- There is not enough blood flows into the penis. Many health issues can reduce blood flow into the penis, such as hardened arteries, heart disease, high blood sugar (Diabetes) and smoking.
- The penis cannot trap blood during an erection. If blood does not stay in the penis, a man cannot keep an erection. This issue can happen at any age.
- Nerve signals from the brain or spinal cord do not reach the penis. Certain diseases, injury or surgery in the pelvic area can harm nerves to the penis.
- Diabetes can cause small vessel disease or nerve damage to the penis
- Cancer treatments near the pelvis can affect the penis’ functionality. Surgery and or radiation for cancers in the lower abdomen or pelvis can cause ED. Treating prostate, colon-rectal or bladder cancer often leaves men with ED. Cancer survivors should see a Urologist for sexual health concerns.
- Drugs used to treat other health problems can negatively impact erections. Patients should talk about drug side effects with their primary care doctors.
- Psychological causes: Anxiety, stress, depression, and relationship issues can all contribute to ED. These psychological factors can interfere with sexual arousal, leading to difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection.
- Hormonal causes: A hormonal imbalance, such as low testosterone levels, can cause ED.
- Neurological causes: Conditions that affect the nervous system, such as multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease, can also cause ED.
- Lifestyle factors: Lifestyle factors that can contribute to ED include a lack of physical activity, a poor diet, and sleep disorders.
It’s important to see a healthcare provider if you’re experiencing ED, as it may be a sign of an underlying health condition that requires treatment.