ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION - CAUSES

Conditions that commonly cause ED include:

Diabetes: Diabetes causes nerve and artery damage over time, potentially leading to ED. Some studies report up to 50% - 75% of men with diabetes experience ED.

Vascular disease: Vascular diseases, such as atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), reduce blood flow to the penis, in the case of ED. Hypertension and high cholesterol levels both contribute to the development of atherosclerosis.


Neurological diseases: An intact neurological system is essential for achieving normal erection. Thus, conditions such as strokes, spinal cord injuries, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease etc. can all result in ED.


Kidney disease: Kidney diseases can affect hormones, circulation and nerve function. These changes, together with the fatigue associated with kidney disease, may reduce libido and contribute to ED.


Prostate cancer treatment: Surgery, radiation and hormonal treatments can lead to ED.


Injury: Injuries to the penis, bladder, pelvis, spinal cord or brain can cause ED.


Hormonal Imbalances: Thyroid hormone, prolactin and testosterone imbalances can reduce libido, thereby affecting sexual function.


Smoking, alcohol and drug use: These substances result in reduced blood flow to the penis, thus causing ED.

Some commonly used medication also may cause ED:

• Anti-hypertensive drugs

• Diuretics

• Anti-depressants

• Anti-anxiety drugs

• Anti-epileptic drugs

• Medication for the treatment of Parkinson's disease

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