Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the medical term for trouble getting or keeping an erection firm enough for sex. Occasional difficulties are common. But when the problem becomes ongoing, that’s when men start to wonder what causes erectile dysfunction.
ED is often thought of as a natural part of getting older, but that isn’t the complete picture. While age can certainly play a role, ED is not inevitable. Many men remain sexually active and satisfied well into later life. When ED does occur, it can be linked to other factors like:
- Lifestyle choices
- Physical health
- Emotional health
What Causes Erectile Dysfunction?
Getting an erection involves much more than a basic reflex.
It depends on healthy blood flow, balanced hormones, proper nerve function, and signals from the brain. When any part of this system is disrupted, erectile difficulties can occur.
Circulation
When arteries are narrowed or blood vessels are damaged, the penis cannot fill with blood effectively. ED can sometimes be one of the earliest warning signs of cardiovascular disease, appearing before chest pain or other heart symptoms.
Reasons for circulation problems include:
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Hardening of the arteries, called atherosclerosis
Health conditions
Some medical conditions can impair the nerves or circulation needed for sexual function, such as:
- Kidney disease
- Multiple sclerosis
- Parkinson’s disease
- Changes following a stroke
Hormonal imbalances
Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone. When it is low, known as low-T, a man may notice:
- Reduced energy
- A lower metabolism
- A decrease in libido
Levels do naturally decline with age. But certain conditions, like hypogonadism or thyroid disorders, can lower hormones more abruptly.
Medication side effects
Many prescription medications list ED as a possible side effect, especially drugs that treat:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- High blood pressure
- Chronic pain
- Prostate cancer
- Allergies
If you notice problems after starting a new medication, sometimes an alternative prescription can solve the issue.
Mental and emotional health
The mind and body are closely connected when it comes to erections. Stress, anxiety, depression, and relationship strain can all trigger or worsen ED. Worrying about performance itself can also create a cycle that can make symptoms worse.
Lifestyle habits
Everyday health and lifestyle choices have a direct impact on sexual function. Habits that increase the risk of ED include:
- Smoking, which damages blood vessels
- Heavy alcohol use, which interferes with nerve signaling and hormone balance
- Lack of exercise, which contributes to poor circulation and extra body weight
- Unhealthy diet choices, which promote vascular disease
- Poor sleep, which lowers testosterone and increases stress
Injuries and surgery
Erectile function depends on intact nerves and blood vessels in the pelvis. In some cases, injury or surgery can damage these pathways, including:
- Prostate surgery
- Pelvic trauma
- Bladder or colorectal surgery
- Fractures and spinal cord injuries
Wondering What Causes Erectile Dysfunction?
If you’ve been struggling with ED, there is good news. ED is not something you have to accept or ignore. Many effective treatments are available.
Since ED can signal other health problems, it’s worth discussing with a urologist who specializes in male sexual health. Treatment ranges from lifestyle changes and medications to in-office procedures or surgery, and most men are able to find an approach that works.
Don’t continue to live with ED – call (541) 334-3350 to schedule an appointment today!