Causes of ED

Erectile dysfunction (ED), also known as impotence, occurs when a man is unable to achieve an erection or can't keep an erection long enough to engage in intercourse. While a man may experience problems at any point in his life, the chances of having an erection problem increase with age, according to the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NKUDIC). A variety of medical and psychological conditions can cause ED.

Vascular Disease

Arteriosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries, is a common condition responsible for heart attacks and strokes. Arteriosclerosis can also cause narrowing and hardening in the blood vessels that supply blood to the penis. Without adequate blood supply, it can be hard to achieve an erection or maintain an erection that is firm enough for sexual intercourse. Smoking cigarettes or being overweight or inactive can be factors in the development of arteriosclerosis.

Diabetes

Men who have diabetes are more likely to also have arteriosclerosis. The long-term effects of diabetes can result in damage to the nerves that control erections. Diabetes can also causes myopathy, a disease affecting muscle function. When myopathy is present in the penis, it can be difficult for a man to maintain an erection. Approximately 35 percent to 50 percent of men with diabetes have a problem with ED, according to NKUDIC.

Trauma

Nerves and veins needed for successful erections can be damaged if there is any injury to the spinal cord or pelvis. Trauma can occur as a result of an accident or due to the effects of surgery, including surgery to treat bladder or prostate cancer. Doctors who perform these surgeries use nerve-sparing techniques when possible, but surgery can still result in temporary or permanent ED.

Drugs

Both prescription and illicit drugs can cause erectile problems. Use of high blood pressure, sedatives, antidepressants, glaucoma, tranquilizers, chemotherapy or heart medications can cause ED symptoms. Long-term use of alcohol and illicit drugs may damage the blood vessels and nerves that serve the penis.

Diseases

Diseases that result in the interruption of the flow of nerve impulses to the penis from the brain can cause ED. Diseases that can affect the nerves include Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis. Scar tissue from Peyronie's disease can cause the penis to curve, making erections difficult and painful. Peyronie's disease is a rare inflammatory condition that affects the tissue of the penis.

Psychological Problems

Certain psychological problems can also impair your ability to achieve an erection. Before your penis begins to noticeably respond to sexual stimuli, a complex series of events takes place in the brain. Depression, stress, anxiety, fear, guilt or low self-esteem can affect this process.