Description

Erectile Dysfunction Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is defined as the inability to achieve and maintain erection of penis for successful sexual intercourse. Most men will have experienced an episode of erectile dysfunction at least once in their life. The causes of ED are diverse, ranging from simple psychogenic factors like performance pressure, to other more serious diseases and disorders. Causes of Erectile Dysfunction The potential causes of erectile dysfunction are numerous and varied, they include: • Artery disease: the most common cause in men over 50, usually linked to high blood pressure, smoking, cardiovascular disease, and obesity. • Endocrine disorders: hyperprolactinemia, thyroid disorders, type II diabetes, testosterone deficiency. • Neurological disorders: neurological damage from alcohol abuse, diabetes or infections, trauma to the spine or spinal cord, spina bifida, lumbar canal stenosis… • Trauma to the penis. • Pelvic surgery. • Peyronie’s disease. • Psychiatric issues: schizophrenia, anxiety, or depression. • Substance use and adverse effects: either prescription drugs like antipsychotics, antidepressants, some antihistamines, or illicit drug abuse. • Psychogenic factors: stress, change in the environment, relationship difficulties, performance anxiety. The causes of erectile dysfunction are diverse, hence the importance of consulting with a qualified sexual impotence therapist to get the right diagnosis and the right treatment. Treatment –Treatment is pharmacotherapy as well as sex therapy.