Information about erectile dysfunction and its causes



Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability of getting or retaining an erection that is sufficient for intercourse. ED is caused by physiological and psychological factors. Most cases of ED are temporary in nature and can be treated by consulting an urologist. There is no conclusive evidence to prove whether ED is hereditary because there are a large number of factors in the erection process. Commonly known as impotence, erectile dysfunction (ED) is characterized by the inability of getting or retaining an erection that is sufficient for the purpose of intercourse. The term ‘impotence’ implies the presence of other sexual problems such as low libido, premature ejaculation or low sperm count. Erectile dysfunction, on the other hand, refers to the problems associated with penile erection only. ED can be a partial, total or inconsistent inability to achieve or maintain an erection.

ED can be caused by physiological as well as psychological factors. You are at risk of getting ED if you suffer from any disorder that injures your nerves or blocks the flow of blood to your penis. Damage to the arteries, nerves, fibrous tissues or the smooth muscles involved in the erection process is one of the commonest causes of ED. Other medical conditions such as kidney disease, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, as well as alcoholism account for most cases of ED. Lifestyle patterns that lead to heart disease and other cardiovascular diseases, along with smoking, obesity and lack of adequate exercise are also possible causes of ED. Certain kinds of surgery, bladder and prostate surgery for instance, as well as radiation therapy for cancer, can injure your penile arteries and nerves and cause ED. It can be the side effect of certain medicines including antihistamines, tranquilizers, blood pressure medications, antidepressants and appetite suppressants. The psychological factors that contribute to this problem include anxiety, stress, guilt, low self esteem, and depression and performance anxiety.

Is erectile dysfunction permanent? 
                                                                                                                       
Most cases of ED are temporary in nature and can be effectively treated by consulting an urologist. Some of the cases can be treated simply by making healthy lifestyle choices such as quitting smoking, cutting back on alcohol, losing weight or getting regular exercise. If your problem is being caused by the harmful effects of medications, ask your doctor to change the dosage or prescribe alternative medications. Some cases of ED can be treated by behavior modification and psychotherapy. If non-invasive ED treatments are not effective, you can also consider vacuum devices, surgical implants or local injections. Your doctor may also suggest surgery that involves arteries or veins. ED medications can be directly injected into your penis or urethra or taken orally in the form of pills.

Is erectile dysfunction hereditary?

Genealogical inheritance or heredity involves the transference of certain genetic characteristics such as eye, hair and skin color, shoulder structure and hair growth from parents to offspring. Certain medical conditions such as diabetes too can be passed on from generation to generation. Many studies have tried to determine whether ED can pass on from father to son. However, there is no conclusive evidence either way because of the involvement of a large number of factors in the erection process.


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