Erectile dysfunction is a common issue that many men face. For some men, erectile dysfunction follows them throughout their lives, but for others, it is an issue that crops up seemingly out of nowhere. For these men, it can be difficult to understand why or how the issue began, and without knowing the cause behind the condition, it can be very difficult to treat it.
1. High cholesterol. Erections are caused by increased blood flow to the penis. In order to have strong, healthy and lasting erections, a man needs to have a strong and healthy blood flow. However, vascular disorders such as high cholesterol can lead to decreased circulation, which in turn can lead to decreased sexual performance.
2. Diabetes. Many people do not realize that diabetes can impact sexual pleasure and response. Yet the truth is that diabetes can cause sexual dysfunction in both men and women. Women with diabetes are more likely to struggle reaching orgasm than women without the condition, and men with diabetes are also likely to struggle in the bedroom. Up to 75 percent of men with diabetes struggle with erectile dysfunction.
3. Prostate cancer treatment. Undergoing prostate cancer treatment can make a man more likely to suffer from ED, up to four times more likely according to recent research out of the United Kingdom. It is the medication and radiation administered during prostate treatment that often leads to ED, however early intervention and talking to your specialist will assist greatly.
4. Tobacco use and alcohol abuse. We know by now that smoking is one of the worst things you can do to your body, but did you know that it is also one of the worst things you can do for your sexual performance? Smoking greatly impedes circulation, and healthy circulation is a must for strong and healthy erections. Excessive alcohol use can also lead to poor sexual response along with a lot of other health concerns.
5. Medications. Common prescriptions can lead to erectile dysfunction and sexual performance issues. This includes anti-depressants, anti-histamines, diuretics, high blood pressure medications, and painkillers (including both prescription painkillers and even over-the-counter painkillers like Panadeine or Nurofen. If you recently started experiencing ED following a new prescription regime, then it certainly could be the cause and you should discuss the issue with your doctor.
6. Obesity. Obesity can cause a number of health concerns, but it can also greatly impact your sexual performance. Excess weight is related to poor circulation and dwindling testosterone, both of which can contribute to erectile dysfunction. Obesity can also lead to Type II diabetes, another risk factor for ED, as mentioned above.
7. Hormones. Decreased testosterone can lead to decreased sexual performance, but the hormonal culprits don’t end there. You might also suffer from ED if you have unbalanced hormones caused by a thyroid condition or a kidney disorder. It’s important to get your hormones levels tested if you think this might be a cause for ED.
Although all of these issues can lead to ED, the good news is that there is help available and that you don’t have to suffer with this condition in silence. Talk to your doctor or clinical sexologist in order to find out what issue in particular is causing your ED, and then discuss possible treatment options.
Mardi Kaye is a Clinical Sexologist and Relationship Therapist and she consults Monday to Thursday through her private practice Therapia in Adelaide, South Australia.