Five Surprising Causes of Erectile Dysfunction

Contrary to popular belief, not all causes of erectile dysfunction are psychological. Although depression or stress may be behind some cases, erectile dysfunction can originate from other medical issues as well as lifestyle habits. If you’ve experienced erectile dysfunction or impotence on more than one occasion and are unsure as to the cause, reviewing the following potential causes with your urologist is advised.

1. High cholesterol/high blood pressure – High cholesterol and high blood pressure restrict blood flow and can damage nerves running throughout your body, including those that direct to your penis. Proper diet and long-term exercise are important for sexual health, but they also treat or improve cholesterol and blood pressure concerns.
2. Diabetes – Diabetes can impact your ability to have and maintain an erection, how you ejaculate, your sperm quality and/or the amount of testosterone in your body.
3. Medication – Talk to your urologist if you started to experience erectile dysfunction after starting or completing a medication. Certain medications have side effects that can affect your libido. Your doctor may be able to suggest a medical route that does not impact your sex life.
4. Cycling – Bike riding is an excellent form of exercise, but in excess, it can result in damaged nerves and blood vessels that cause erectile dysfunction. If you are worried or unsure if the amount of time you spend on a bike is harming your ability to have and maintain an erection, contact your urologist.
5. Peyronie’s disease – Peyronie’s disease is when hard, lumpy plaque forms in the soft tissue of the penis and causes an abnormal curvature which makes an erection and/or intercourse painful. The severity of the condition varies: cases can range from mild to severe, and it can develop slowly over time or seemingly overnight. Peyronie’s disease is treatable, and you can schedule a consultation to discuss your symptoms today.

Ultimately, erectile dysfunction is treatable regardless of your age. Understandably, men may feel too embarrassed to share this issue with a physician, but not discussing the issue impedes the path to effective treatment.