Causes of Erectile Dysfunction in Married Men

1.       Chronic Disease

The link between underlying chronic disease and ED is most striking with diabetes. Approximately half of the men with diabetes experience ED. Nevertheless, good blood sugar control can minimize this risk. Of note, cardiovascular disease, atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), kidney disease, and multiple sclerosis each can lead to ED. Each of these illnesses lead to ED by interfering with blood flow or nerve impulses throughout the body.

2.       Lifestyle

Lifestyle choices, such as smoking, alcohol abuse, and obesity can impair blood circulation and lead to ED. Smoking, excessive drinking, and drug abuse may damage the blood vessels and reduce blood flow to the penis. Smoking makes men with atherosclerosis even more vulnerable to ED. Smokers have almost twice the risk of ED compared with nonsmokers. Being overweight and getting too little exercise also contribute to ED. Men who exercise regularly have a lower risk of ED.

3.       Surgery

Surgical or radiation treatments for prostate cancer, bladder cancer, or prostate enlargement (BPH) can sometimes damage nerves and blood vessels near the penis. Occasionally, the nerve damage is permanent and requires treatment to achieve an erection. Sometimes, surgery causes temporary ED that improves on its own after 6 to 18 months.

4.       Medication

Many medications can cause ED, including certain blood pressure drugs, antidepressants, and tranquilizers. Men with ED should talk with their doctor if they suspect a prescription or over-the-counter drug may be causing erectile problem

5.       Psychological Factor

It is common for men with ED to have an underlying physical basis for it, particularly in older men. However, psychological factors may be present in 10% to 20% of men with ED. Experts say stress, depression, poor self-esteem, and performance anxiety can impair the ability to have an erection. These factors can also make ED worse in men whose sexual dysfunction stems from something physical.

6.       Cyclists

Avid cyclists suffer more ED than other athletes because the shape of some bicycle seats causes pressure on the nerves that are vital to sexual arousal. Cyclists who ride for many hours each week may benefit from seats designed to protect the perineum.

 

Note:

ED Could Be A Sign of Heart Disease

ED can be a warning sign of serious underlying disease. Research has found that ED is a strong predictor of heart attack, stroke, and even death from cardiovascular disease.
All men with ED should be evaluated for cardiovascular disease. Notably, this does not mean every man with ED will develop heart disease, or that every man with heart disease has ED; however, ED patients should be aware of the link.

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