Common Causes of Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

Monday, April 4, 2022

Common Causes Of Erectile Dysfunction

There are some medical conditions that people just don’t want to talk about, and erectile dysfunction (ED) is most definitely one of them. While most men will experience erectile dysfunction at some point in their life, it isn’t necessarily a long-term issue. However, depending on your age and the cause of the problem, it may be wise to seek medical advice, as it might resolve itself as quickly and unexpectedly as it arose. Here, we take a look at the most common causes of erectile dysfunction – and what you can do.

1. Erectile Dysfunction and Medication

Most medications have side effects, and erectile dysfunction is a common one. If you find yourself experiencing erectile dysfunction, it is a good idea to look at any prescription and over the counter drugs that you are taking and check the list of common and uncommon side effects. Drugs that list erectile dysfunction as a common side effect include diuretics, some hair loss treatments, antifungals, beta-blockers, non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, antihistamines, muscle relaxants, opiate analgesics (painkillers such as codeine and fentanyl), and chemotherapy drugs. If you experience erectile dysfunction as a side effect of medication, consult your doctor before ceasing to take any medication. Additionally, if you contact a doctor about treatment for erectile dysfunction, make sure that you let them know about any other medication you are taking.

2. Erectile Dysfunction, Steroids and Recreational Drugs

It’s not just medicinal drugs that can cause erectile dysfunction, recreational drugs and steroids can, too. Steroids taken to promote muscle growth can impact the body’s normal testosterone control, which can, over time, cause erectile dysfunction. In addition, recreational drugs such as alcohol, nicotine, opiates, marijuana, amphetamines, barbiturates and cocaine are all known to contribute to the condition; in some cases, the use of some illegal drugs is thought to cause erectile dysfunction long-term. When it comes to illegal drugs, smoking, or excessive alcohol intake, it’s simple: don’t do it. If you suffer from substance addiction, speak to your doctor about the support options available.

3. Erectile Dysfunction and Diabetes

One study of nearly 8,000 men showed that more than half of men with diabetes who were aged between 50 and 55 experienced erectile dysfunction. Diabetes results in vascular issues, therefore it is unsurprising that it can lead to reduced blood flow to the penis. However, few men who suffer from diabetes are asked about their sexual health, which means that they are not offered treatment advice. If you have been diagnosed with diabetes or prediabetes, and you experience erectile dysfunction, talk to a medical professional about possible treatment options.

4. Erectile Dysfunction and Cardiovascular Heath

Erectile dysfunction does not always have a physical cause; sometimes it can be psychological. However, in some cases, it can be an early warning sign of other health issues. Because the blood vessels in the penis are narrower than those in the heart or brain, erectile dysfunction can often be the first noticeable sign of high blood pressure or high cholesterol. If you are overweight, there is a family history of heart problems, or you suffer from high cholesterol or diabetes, don’t ignore erectile dysfunction; talk to a medical professional in case it is an indicator of a more significant problem.

5. Erectile Dysfunction and Cycling

Cycling is great for your mind and body. It can improve your cardiovascular fitness, aid weight loss, build muscle strength and tone, and boost your mood and your self-confidence. However, some regular cyclists report that cycling has impacted their sex life by causing erectile dysfunction or penile numbness. This is because cycling puts pressure on the pudendal arteries, which supply blood to the penis and perineum. Research into this is mixed, but if you think that cycling could be causing erectile dysfunction, you can improve the problem by getting your bike properly fitted and by buying a specialist saddle.

6. Erectile Dysfunction and Depression

Some men with erectile dysfunction experience depression or anxiety, and some men with depression and anxiety experience erectile dysfunction ED. The two can be linked, and it is not certain which one causes which. Erectile dysfunction can lead to depression as the feelings of failure, frustration, embarrassment and anger at experiencing it can lead to lowered self-esteem, anxiety or depression. And, of course, the more a man panics about having erectile dysfunction, the more his anxiety levels are likely to rise. Both depression and erectile dysfunction are treatable, and both need a consultation with a doctor to understand the causes so that appropriate treatment can be recommended. If you suffer from anxiety or depression, contact your local doctor for a full consultation. If you are suffering from erectile dysfunction, you can get an online prescription for erectile dysfunction treatment after a consultation with one of Oxford Online Pharmacy’s medical professionals.

7. Erectile Dysfunction, Age and Hormones

Sometimes, erectile dysfunction is simply the result of age. As men age, they tend to produce less testosterone, which means that they lack the physiological responses necessary to achieve an erection. Treatment for this is readily available and highly effective; add a treatment to your basket and a trained pharmacist will provide you with a prescription or advise you of more appropriate treatment for your needs.

It is important to remember that more than half of men will experience it at some time in their life. If you have any questions about erectile dysfunction, its causes and treatment, get in touch.

Authored on 03 September 2021