Erectile dysfunction is more than a physical problem. It can affect confidence, relationships, and overall quality of life. Many men feel embarrassed, frustrated, or even ashamed when they have trouble getting or keeping an erection. For some, the issue comes on gradually. For others, it feels sudden and confusing.
While occasional difficulties are normal, persistent ED often points to an underlying issue. The causes of erectile dysfunction have a wide range. Understanding what’s behind the problem is the first step toward finding a solution that works.
Below are seven common causes of erectile dysfunction and what you can do about them.
7 Causes of Erectile Dysfunction
1. Circulation and overall health
Blood flow is essential for a firm erection. If you have problems with your heart or blood vessels, it can interfere with this process. Conditions that affect how well blood flows to the penis include:
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Atherosclerosis- the hardening of the arteries
Underlying health and medical conditions can also play a role, such as:
- Nerve damage from diabetes
- Kidney disease
- Having a high body weight
- Neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis
- Parkinson’s disease
- Stroke
2. Low testosterone and hormone changes
Testosterone is the main hormone that supports male sexual function. When levels are low, you might notice a decrease in:
- Libido
- Energy
- The ability to get an erection
This can be due to aging or conditions like hypogonadism (Low T), where the body doesn’t make enough testosterone. Other hormonal imbalances, such as thyroid problems, can also interfere with sexual health.
3. Side effects from medications
Certain medications can interfere with erections as a side effect of the drug. These may include medicines used to treat:
- Depression or anxiety
- High blood pressure
- Chronic pain or inflammation
- Allergies
- Hormone therapies for prostate cancer
4. Mental and emotional health
Stress, anxiety, and depression are all linked to ED, as are relationship issues and negative past experiences.
Worrying about whether you’ll perform well, called performance anxiety, can trigger or worsen symptoms. When the mind and body aren’t in sync, it can be more difficult to get or keep an erection.
5. Lifestyle habits
What you do every day affects your sexual health more than you might think. Lifestyle choices affect your heart, energy levels, and blood vessels, all of which contribute to sexual function. Those that increase your risk of ED include:
- Smoking
- Heavy drinking
- Lack of exercise
- Poor sleep
- Unhealthy eating
6. Aging and related health issues
Getting older doesn’t cause ED directly, but the risk goes up as health issues become more common. Conditions like diabetes or heart disease, as well as the medications used to treat them, can affect your sexual function.
It’s important to know, however, that ED isn’t just part of aging. Many older men continue to enjoy healthy sex lives when underlying issues are treated.
7. Injuries or surgery
Damage to the nerves or blood vessels that support erections can cause ED. This may happen after:
- Prostate surgery
- Bladder or colorectal surgery
- Pelvic trauma
- Fractures
- Spinal cord injuries
In some cases, the effects are temporary. In other cases, treatments like penile injections or implants can help restore sexual function.
Learn More about the Causes of Erectile Dysfunction
If you’ve been dealing with ED, talking to a urologist will help establish what is going on and find something that works. Treatments range from lifestyle changes and medications to in-office procedures and surgery. The good news is that there are options to get your sexual health back.
Don’t continue to struggle with ED – schedule an appointment today!
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