What causes ED?
An erection involves a precise sequence of events and therefore ED can occur when any of these events are disrupted. The sequence includes nerve impulses in the brain, spinal column and area around the penis and response in muscles, fibrous tissue, veins and arteries in and near the corpora cavernosa.
One in two men is likely to suffer erection difficulties at some point in their lives. As ageing increases the possibility of experiencing ED, many older men accept the condition as a ‘normal’ part of the ageing process without realising it can be treated effectively and seeking advice about treatment.
Physical causes:
 Vascular disease
Diabetes mellitus
Hormone abnormalities such as hyperprolactinaemia
Certain prescribed drugs
Hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol)
Diseases affecting the erectile tissue of the penis
Neurological diseases
Severe chronic diseases such as kidney and liver failure
Alcoholism and drug abuse
Surgery (especially radical prostate and bladder surgery)
Injury to the penis, spinal cord, pelvis, prostate or bladder
Heavy smoking
Being overweight
Drug induced causes:
Alcohol
Antihypertensives (medication for high blood pressure) e.g. diuretics, beta blockers, methyldopa
Cimetidine
Marijuana, heroin, methadone
Major tranquillisers
Tricyclic antidepressants
Digoxin
Glucocorticosteroids
Oestrogen, anti-androgens
Psychological causes of ED:
A sudden onset of ED in men who can normally achieve an erection may indicate there is an underlying psychological problem at the root of their ED. Common psychological causes can include:
Stress and anxiety from work or home
Relationship conflicts and dissatisfaction
Depression and other psychiatric conditions and their medications
Sexual boredom or unresolved sexual orientation
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Mary.McFeeley@HCAconsultant.co.uk |
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