Erectile dysfunction may develop in any male but men with certain diseases and physical conditions are more likely to suffer from impotence.
Males of the following conditions comprise risk groups:
Elderly men. 80% of males over 75 suffer from erectile dysfunction. Aging often brings problems with erection including complete inability to get erection or decreased sensitivity of the penis and reduced rigidity. However erectile dysfunction is not an unavoidable state. Elderly men are more susceptible to erectile dysfunction because they have other diseases that cause problems in sexual life. If your physical condition is still good erectile dysfunction will not be a consequence of normal aging.
Chronic diseases. Any chronic diseases of the lungs, kidneys, heart, liver, nerves, arteries and veins may account for erectile dysfunction. Endocrine system disorders (diabetes), atherosclerosis also cause erectile dysfunction, by influencing the blood supply to the penis.
Undergoing treatment and taking medications. Taking certain medications can influence the function of nervous and vascular system and thus contribute to the development of erectile dysfunction. Antidepressants, antihistamines, cancer treatment, medications for high blood pressure interfere with potency.
Surgeries and injuries. Surgeries and injuries may damage nerves involved in the process of erection. Damages to the penis, pelvic area, spinal cord are common causes of erectile dysfunction as well as surgeries on bladder, rectal and prostate.
Drugs and alcohol abuse. Drugs and alcohols are well known foes of potency and the intake of these substances leads to erectile dysfunction. The disease even got the name “brewer’s droop”.
Smoking. If you smoke the blood flow to the vessels is restricted, penis experience blood deficiency and erectile dysfunction is very likely to develop.
Obesity. Obese men are more likely to suffer from impotence than men at a normal weight. Besides, obesity causes other diseases dangerous to your ability to get erection and to your overall health.
Problems with metabolism. Proper metabolism is sufficient to reduce the risk of erectile dysfunction. Men with metabolic syndromes have high cholesterol level, high blood pressure and insulin resistance.
Stress and depression. Psychological factors are common causes of impotence that’s why erectile dysfunction treatment includes examination of patient’s psychological well-being.
