Physical and Psychological Causes of Erectile Dysfunction

What Causes Erectile Dysfunction?

A number of causes and conditions can cause erectile dysfunction

Sexual arousal is a complex process, both in men and women. This system involves not only the muscles, blood vessels, and emotions but the nerves, hormones, and brain. There are many potential causes of erectile dysfunction, some of which are physical while others are psychological. Here's a look at some of the most common causes of Erectile Dysfunction and ED treatment options that may help you.

Erectile dysfunction can cause relationship problems

Physical and psychological problems and conditions can potentialy cause erectile dysfunction

Psychological Causes of ED

Sometimes erectile dysfunction is the result of a psychological cause like depression or widower syndrome, or it may be caused by performance anxiety, or stress and anxiety that interferes with sexual arousal. Emotions can also interfere with sex, including feeling stressed, self-conscious, or dealing with relationship problems. Be sure to address any emotional or psychological problems you think may be part of the problem with your doctor. There may be treatment options like therapy or antidepressants that can help you.

Endocrine Disease and ED

The endocrine system is responsible for producing hormones that govern everything from mood and reproduction to metabolism and sexual function. Diabetes is one of the most common types of endocrine disease that leads to erectile dysfunction. Diabetes that isn't well controlled can lead to nerve damage which affects sensation in the penis. It can also impair blood flow and hormone levels, both of which can make it difficult to achieve and sustain an erection. ED drugs and/or hormone therapy are standard treatments for diabetes-related erectile dysfunction.

Neurological Disorders and ED

There are a number of neurological disorders that can lead to ED by interfering with the brain's ability to communicate with the body's reproductive system. Alzheimer's disease and stroke are two examples of neurological disorders that can impair a man's ability to achieve an erection.

Good understanding will help man deal easier with the problem

No matter what the cause of erectile dysfunction is, it helps to deal with it in an honest manner.

Cardiac Conditions and ED

A condition that interferes with the heart's ability to pump blood throughout the body can easily lead to the dysfunction, as there may not be sufficient blood flow to the penis to sustain an erection. Atherosclerosis, or clogged arteries, is one of the most common causes of ED, along with high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Erectile dysfunction drugs like Cialis can be an effective treatment.

Medication Side Effects

Many medications -- both over-the-counter and prescription -- can interfere with blood flow and cause erectile dysfunction. Medications that can cause ED include beta-blockers, central nervous system depressants like Xanax and codeine, stimulants like cocaine, diuretics, and synthetic hormones.

The bottom line is there are many potential causes of erectile dysfunction and there is no way to know for sure what is causing your it without a thorough evaluation and review of your medical history. There are several treatment options that may work for you. The first step is scheduling an appointment with a physician to learn more about medications for the dysfunction, hormone replacement, and other treatment options.