Share:

Erectile dysfunction (ED), a diagnosis for those who experience difficulty getting and maintaining an erection, is a more common problem than many think. In fact, it’s estimated that 30 million Americans experience ED at some point in their lives. Learn about some of the causes and be sure to visit your medical provider for a men’s health exam to discover the root of your problem.

Common Reasons for Erectile Dysfunction

1. Cardiovascular Conditions

In some cases, erectile dysfunction can be an early symptom of much more serious heart and blood pressure issues. If your heart isn’t able to pump blood well or your blood vessels are clogged, you may not be able to get an erection. Have your men’s health practitioner check for high cholesterol, hypertension, and atherosclerosis.

2. Endocrine Disorders

men's healthYour endocrine system produces many of the hormones necessary to help your body achieve an erection. One of the most common endocrine disorders that can cause ED is diabetes, which results in nerve damage that can affect the sensations in the penis. Hormone levels and blood flow are also contributing factors to ED that can be linked to diabetes.

3. Nerve & Neurological Disorders

If you have nerve or neurological problems, your brain may not be able to communicate clearly with your reproductive system, which can result in erectile dysfunction. Some disorders that may cause ED include tumors in the spine or brain, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, or epilepsy. Nerve damage may also be caused by long-distance bicycle riding and prostate surgery.

4. Prescription Medications

Taking certain prescription or over-the-counter medications can interfere with your blood flow, affect your libido, or cause impotence in other ways. Some of the most common culprits include SSRIs, beta-blockers, diuretics, muscle relaxants, NSAIDs, antihistamines, and anti-hypertensives. Ask your men’s health care provider about any medications you’re taking and how they may be affecting you.

5. Lifestyle & Emotional Factors

Problems can also occur if you aren’t in the right emotional frame of mind or are experiencing depression or anxiety. Impotence can also be caused by performance anxiety or a lack of comfort with a specific partner. Heavy drug or alcohol use is often a contributing factor in erectile dysfunction as well.

 

Have all of your men’s health issues taken care of by visiting the medical professionals at Hillside Family Medicine in Anchorage, AK. Local residents have been relying on this clinic for more than 20 years and even voted it the “Best Family Care Provider” in the Channel 2 Viewers’ Choice Awards in 2015 and 2016. Find out more about this medical care provider online or call (907) 344-0200 to make an appointment today.

tracking