Erectile difficulty, or erectile dysfunction, is the inability for a man to get or keep an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. While erectile dysfunction, or ED, is more common with age, Medline Plus reports it is not a natural part of the aging process. Forming an erection is an intricate progression that requires the coordinated efforts of the brain, hormones and muscles. With so many systems of the body involved, erectile difficulties may result because of an interruption to the process by a number of physical and psychological conditions or certain lifestyle choices.
Physical Conditions of Erectile Difficulties
MayoClinic.com reports most cases of ED are causes by something physical, including heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, injuries and obesity. Certain diseases also contribute to ED; these diseases include diabetes, multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's disease.
Psychological Conditions of Erectile Difficulties
The National Institute of Health estimates that 10 to 20 percent of ED cases result from psychological factors. The initial signal for the physical formation of an erection begins in the brain. There are many conditions that interfere, or even prevent, the brain from signaling the physical process to begin, including depression, anxiety, stress and fatigue. Other psychological conditions contributing to ED include guilt, low self-esteem and fear of sexual failure.
Prevention and Treatment of Erectile Difficulties
For many men suffering from ED, the condition is caused by a number of lifestyle choices. Quitting smoking, exercising regularly and losing weight may improve and even prevent ED from occurring. A healthy diet rich in whole grains, fruit and vegetables assists in the prevention or improvement of ED.
Oral medications, such as Viagra, Cialis and Levitra, effectively treat ED. According to MayoClinic.com, these medications work by helping the body produce natural chemicals that relax the muscles and increase blood flow in the penis, resulting in erection.
