Erectile Dysfunction (ED)- Causes and Treatment

What Is Erectile Dysfunction (ED)?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is when a man has persistent problems achieving and/or sustaining an erection. Erectile dysfunction can make sexual intercourse impossible without treatment. Erectile dysfunction can first emerge in a man as early as 40 according to the Massachusetts Male Aging Study on sexual dysfunction. They also found that an estimated 18 to 30 million men are affected by erectile dysfunction.

Does Erectile Dysfunction Mean Poor Libido?

Erectile dysfunction refers specifically to problems achieving or maintaining an erection. Other forms of male sexual dysfunction include poor libido and problems with ejaculation. Men with erectile dysfunction often have a healthy libido, but their bodies fail to respond in the sexual encounter by producing an erection. Usually there is a physical basis for the problem.

Can Low Testosterone (Low T) Cause Erectile Dysfunction?

While low T isn’t the only cause of erectile dysfunction, the two do seem to be connected. However, the connection between low testosterone and erectile dysfunction is complicated. Researchers believe two are connected because they both seem to coincide as a man ages. However, some men with low testosterone continue to produce healthy erections.

Erectile Dysfunction Symptoms


Who Gets Erectile Dysfunction?


The Mechanics Behind Erectile Dysfunction

When blood fills two chambers in the penis (known as the corpora cavernosa) an erection occurs. This causes the penis to expand and stiffen, much like a balloon as it is filled with water. The process is triggered by nerve impulses from the brain and genital area. Anything that interferes with these impulses or restricts blood flow to the penis can result in erectile dysfunction.

Diseases That Can Lead to Erectile Dysfunction


In addition, the following four diseases can lead to erectile dysfunction by interfering with blood flow or nerve impulses throughout the body.

  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries)
  • Kidney disease
  • Multiple sclerosis

Lifestyle Choices Can Cause Erectile Dysfunction

Lifestyle choices, such as smoking, alcohol abuse, and obesity can impair blood circulation and lead to erectile dysfunction. 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 erectile dysfunction. Smokers have almost twice the risk of erectile dysfunction compared with nonsmokers. Being overweight and getting too little exercise also contribute to erectile dysfunction. Men who exercise regularly have a lower risk of erectile dysfunction.

Surgery Can Cause Erectile Dysfunction


Medications That Cause Erectile Dysfunction

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

Born This Way? Physiology and Erectile Dysfunction

It is common for men with erectile dysfunction 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 erectile dysfunction. Experts say stress, depression, poor self-esteem, and performance anxiety can impair the ability to have an erection. These factors can also make erectile dysfunction worse in men whose sexual dysfunction stems from something physical.

Cyclists and Erectile Dysfunction


Erectile Dysfunction Diagnosis: Physical Exam

To diagnose erectile dysfunction, the doctor will ask questions about the symptoms and medical history. A complete physical exam is done to detect poor circulation or nerve trouble. The physician will look for abnormalities of the genital area that could cause problems with erections.

Erectile Dysfunction Diagnosis: Lab Tests

Many lab tests can be helpful in diagnosing male sexual problems. Measuring testosterone levels can determine whether there is a hormonal imbalance, which is often linked to decreased desire.

These tests may reveal underlying medical causes of ED:

  • Blood cell counts
  • Cholesterol levels
  • Blood sugar levels
  • Liver function tests

Is Erectile Dysfunction a Sign of Heart Disease?


Erectile Dysfunction Treatment: Lifestyle Changes

Often men with erectile dysfunction are able to improve sexual function by making a few lifestyle changes. Stopping smoking, losing weight, and exercising regularly can help by improving blood flow. If you suspect a medication could be contributing to erectile dysfunction, talk to your doctor about it.

Erectile Dysfunction Treatment: Oral Drugs

While popularized in the media, Viagra is not the only erectile dysfunction drug. Other erectile dysfunction drugs include:

  • Cialis
  • Levitra
  • Staxyn
  • Stendra

Erectile Dysfunction Treatment: Injections


Erectile Dysfunction Treatment: Vacuum Devices (Pumps)


Erectile Dysfunction Treatment: Surgery


Erectile Dysfunction Treatment: Implants


Erectile Dysfunction Treatment: PsychotherapyErectile Dysfunction


Erectile Dysfunction Treatment: Alternative Therapies

Men with erectile dysfunction should talk with their doctors before trying supplements for erectile dysfunction. They can contain 10 or more ingredients and may complicate other health conditions. Asian ginseng and ginkgo biloba (seen here) are popular, but there isn’t a lot of good research on their effectiveness. Some men find that taking a DHEA supplement improves their ability to have an erection. Unfortunately, the long-term safety of DHEA supplements is unknown. Most doctors do not recommend using it.

Erectile Dysfunction Treatment: Buyer Beware


Reducing Your Risk of Erectile Dysfunction


Discussing Erectile Dysfunction With Your Partner


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