Understanding Major cause of Erectile Dysfunction in Men
In the US, over 50% of men experience erectile dysfunction (ED), a condition where achieving or maintaining an erection for sexual intercourse is difficult.
If you face ED, you're not alone. Many seek medical advice, but understanding the cause is crucial for effective treatment, which may include ED medications.
In this blog, you will explore ED's causes and risk factors.
What is the reason I can't get hard? Explore the causes of ED
The below section will discuss these possible causes that keep you from getting hard, leading to conditions like Erectile dysfunction:
Endocrine Disorders
Endocrine disorders, like type 2 diabetes, are a significant cause of ED. Over 50% of men with diabetes experience erection problems, often within 10 years of diagnosis.
High blood sugar damages nerves needed for sexual stimulation and blood vessels supporting penile blood flow. In such cases, ED medications may not work for all diabetic men; controlling blood sugar levels is crucial. Alternative ED treatments are often recommended for these patients.
Pelvic surgery
Pelvic surgery, especially for prostate cancer, can cause Erectile dysfunction by damaging nerves essential for erections. Nerve-sparing techniques may help, but recovery can take 1-2 years and may not be effective for all. Radiation therapy for prostate cancer can also lead to ED and other sexual issues.
Vascular disease
Over 70% of ED cases are linked to coronary artery disease, where atherosclerosis narrows penile arteries, which are smaller than other arteries.
A cardiologist can diagnose ED caused by vascular issues. Medications may not always be effective, but adopting a healthy lifestyle—quitting smoking and alcohol, exercising, etc.—can help manage the condition.
Neurogenic causes
Nerve damage disrupting signals for erections can lead to neurogenic ED. Common causes include spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis, diabetes, and pelvic surgeries.
Treatment may involve managing the underlying condition, using ED medications (e.g., PDE5 inhibitors), vacuum erection devices, penile implants, or psychological therapy.
Mental disorders
Mental health issues like depression, stress, and anxiety significantly contribute to ED by disrupting the brain's signals to the penis.
Sexual desire depends on both physical and psychological factors. Mental disorders can imbalance brain chemicals, reduce sexual satisfaction, and worsen ED symptoms. Performance anxiety further impacts sexual performance and desire, often leading to psychological erectile dysfunction.
Sleep disorder
Sleep apnea lowers testosterone levels, which are essential for erections, directly affecting sexual health. Consult a doctor if you notice sleep issues; timely treatment can improve ED.
High blood pressure
Chronic hypertension damages blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the penis and causing ED. Over 80% of men with high blood pressure experience ED, often linked to low testosterone levels. BP management and medications can help prevent ED in these cases.
Medications
Certain medications can cause ED as a side effect. Common culprits include antidepressants, testosterone blockers, high blood pressure medicines, diuretics, and painkillers.
If you experience ED, inform your doctor about all your medications to identify and address the cause.
Treatments for Erectile Dysfunction:
Treatment varies based on the cause of ED. After assessing your medical history and symptom severity, a doctor may recommend:
- For Vascular ED: Prescription medications and treatments to improve penile blood flow.
- For Psychogenic ED: Psychotherapy methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), counselling, and sex therapy.
Addressing underlying causes is key to effective treatment.
Do you know?
Masturbation in moderation is harmless, but overdoing it can sometimes lead to temporary ED due to overstimulation or mental factors. This might affect sexual performance, but with a balanced approach, it's usually easy to manage and resolve.
Final words
These are common causes of erectile dysfunction (ED). A doctor will assess your health to identify the cause and recommend the most suitable treatment to address your condition.
So, these are some of the well-known causes of erectile dysfunction.
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Tests may include:
- Physical exam: Examining the penis, testicles, and nerve sensations.
- Blood tests: To check for underlying health issues.
- Urine tests: Detecting diabetes or other conditions.
- Ultrasound: Assessing blood flow to the penis.
- Psychological exam: Evaluating mental health factors.
Explore about: Tests for Erectile dysfunction.
ED can affect men of any age, including those in their 20s. Consult a doctor to identify the cause, whether physical or psychological.
Yes, ED is manageable. Many men achieve fulfilling sex lives with treatment like medications, therapy, or lifestyle changes.
ED isn't entirely curable, but symptoms can be treated effectively with medications, therapy, or exercises to improve the condition.
Yes, you can take PDE5 inhibitors when prescribed to treat your erectile dysfunction. These drugs can help restore erection when taken before sex.
