Impotence, also known as erectile dysfunction, is a disorder that renders men unable to develop or maintain an erection. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disorders notes that erectile dysfunction affects nearly thirty million men in the United States each year. As men get older the incidence of impotence increases, but it can affect men at any age.
Structural Damage
There are a number of different structures that have to function properly in order for an erection to be achieved and maintained, the Patient Education Institute explains. Any sort of injury to the penis or to the pelvic region can damage the nerves, connective tissue, smooth muscle and blood vessels that are necessary for either the development or the maintenance of an erection. Spinal cord and brain disorders can also lead to impotence. Men may also become impotent after certain medical treatments. These include surgeries in the pelvic area, such as those performed for prostate, colon or rectal cancer. Radiation treatments that involve the pelvis can also lead to erectile dysfunction.
Medical Problems
A number of other medical conditions that can lead to impotence in married men. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disorders notes that cardiovascular problems, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol or heart disease can cause circulatory problems that interfere with the development and maintenance of an erection. Diabetes, kidney inflammation and liver disease can also cause impotence. Hormonal imbalances, particularly those involving testosterone levels, can also lead to erectile dysfunction in married men.
Medications
A number of medications have impotence as a possible side effect. Many different kinds of antidepressants and other psychiatric drugs can cause decreased sensitivity of the genitals and erectile dysfunction, Medline Plus explains. H-2 receptor blockers, which are a kind of antihistamine medication used to treat heartburn, can also cause impotence. Medications used to treat high blood pressure, particularly thiazide diuretics also have erection problems as a potential side effect. Chemotherapy and medications for Parkinson's can also cause erectile dysfunction. Finally, use of opiate painkillers, tobacco, alcohol, barbiturates, cocaine, amphetamines, heroin and marijuana can also make having or maintaining an erection difficult.
Psychological
Erectile dysfunction can also be psychological in nature. Patients suffering from anxiety or depression may find that their emotional problems also manifest themselves as sexual dysfunction, according to MayoClinic.com. Stress, fatigue and poor self-esteem can also lead to impotence. Men may also have difficulty performing sexually as a result of relationship problems, such as poor communication, stress or other marital issues.
