Erectile Dysfunction - Causes and Symptoms

Definition

Erectile dysfunction is the inability to get or maintain a satisfactory erection during sexual intercourse. In most cases, this is a problem linked to vascular, neurological, psychological or hormonal pathologies.

The most frequent vascular cause is atherosclerosis of the penile arteries. In addition, erectile dysfunction can result from a condition of venous insufficiency (an erection is achieved but does not remain stable).

Diabetes and subsequent diabetic neuropathy are also particularly common causes. Stroke, seizures, multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injuries are among other possible neurological causes.

Other favoring conditions include endocrinopathies associated with testosterone deficiency (hypogonadism, hyperprolactinemia, Cushing's syndrome, etc.), anatomical abnormalities and post-surgical complications (interventions at the colon, prostate and bladder).

Psychological disorders that promote erectile dysfunction include performance anxiety, stress and mood disorders (guilt, depression and severe anxiety). In this sense, the inability to maintain an erection can be linked to a particular situation (place, moment or partner).

In some cases, erectile dysfunction is related to the use of drugs, including: β-blockers, diuretics, anxiolytics, opiates, tricyclic antidepressants, anticholinergics, antiandrogens and chemotherapeutics. Alcohol can cause temporary erectile dysfunction. Furthermore, the prevalence of the disorder increases with aging.