Erectile Dysfunction - 12 Shocking

Causes Behind it
Dr. Shamik Das 93% (239 ratings)
MD - Dermatology, MBBS
Sexologist, Kolkata • 17 Years experience

There is a general misconception about impotence and erectile dysfunction being

two separate conditions. In fact, impotence is just another term for erectile
dysfunction. If you have a problem in achieving an erection more than 70% of the
times when you want to have sex, you are suffering from erectile dysfunction.

Impotence is the same thing, but it also encompasses other concerns related to
sexual health such as low libido and issues with ejaculation.

Causes of erectile dysfunction

1. Disruption of blood flow in the body or disruption in hormonal secretion and nerve
supply to the body

2. Vascular and neurological causes

3. Occurrence of a disease known as atherosclerosis, which is caused due

to smoking and diabetes. In this case, the arteries in the penis get narrowed and
clogged.
4. Neuropathy, which occurs because of diabetes or diabetic neuropathy
5. Nerve damage because of a previous surgery around the pelvis area
6. High blood pressure or hypertension also result in damaged arteries throughout the
vascular system. Blood flow gets impaired and proper erection is hampered.
7. Physical causes such as high cholesterol and obesity, Parkinson’s disease and
multiple cases of sclerosis

8. Smoking, excessive drinking and substance abuse

9. The reactions and side effects of certain medicines

10. Several psychological factors such as depression, excessive stress, tension, and
performance anxiety, which reduce libido

11. Poor communication with the sexual partner

12. Intake of several medicines such as alpha adrenergic blockers, beta

blockers, chemotherapy medications and central nervous system depressants
Treatment for erectile dysfunction

Different treatments may be used to treat erectile dysfunction. These include the
following:

1. Medication: A group of drugs known as PDE-5 or phosphodiesterase type 5

inhibitors are used for the treatment of erectile dysfunction.
2. Vacuum devices: Vacuum erection devices help in providing an erection in men. A
mechanical procedure is involved where the penis is made rigid using a vacuum
pump sealed around it. This device draws blood and an erection becomes possible.
3. Surgical treatment: Penile implants can be used to treat erectile dysfunction.
Mechanical implants are used, which help to keep the penis hard. A vascular surgery
is another option, which incorporates the correction of blood vessels responsible for
erectile dysfunction.
4. Natural treatment: There are a number of lifestyle changes that help a man
naturally treat erectile dysfunction. Regular exercising, especially weight-bearing
ones, not only aids in increasing blood flow, but also improves production of
testosterone. Following a balanced diet with more intake of fruits and vegetables,
limiting alcohol and avoiding smoking also generate positive results.
The term impotence and erectile dysfunction are quite related as they indicate the
same conditions. However, today the term erectile dysfunction is more popular over
the term impotence. In case you experience any of the symptoms of this condition,
you should consult a doctor immediately.