Erectile Dysfunction – What causes it?
Erectile dysfunction, also known as impotence, affects half of British men between 40 and 70. If the problems last for several weeks, making a satisfactory sex life impossible, then it is important to seek medical advice as it can often be a first sign of a serious health condition including heart diseases and diabetes. In fact in 70% of the cases, heart diseases and diabetes are the cause for an erectile dysfunction. It is thus very important to talk to your GP about your problem in order to avoid more serious consequences. Too many men are ashamed of their condition though and only 33% of men with erectile dysfunction actually seek help.
Erectile dysfunction can be caused by physical as well as psychological problems. A physical problem can be the narrowing of the blood vessels that go to the penis. High cholesterol levels, diabetes and hypertension can all be the cause of this problem. Other physical conditions that can lead to erectile dysfunction are hormonal problems or an injury. Psychological causes for erectile dysfunction include anxiety, stress and depression. Our lifestyle can have a huge influence on our well-being and certain habits can make men more prone to suffering from erectile dysfunction.
Partying Too Much
Going out to party will often lead to smoking and drinking. Smoking and erectile dysfunction have both been associated with plaque build-up in the arteries. This means that the blood flow is obstructed, which leads to circulatory problems. Men who smoke, or used to smoke have a 30% increased risk of erectile dysfunction. And men who smoke 20+ cigarettes increase their risk of erectile dysfunction by 60%.
While drinking every once in a while has no lasting effect on a man’s ability to get an erection, long term heavy drinking damages the nerves and deregulates male sex hormone levels. This can ultimately lead to erectile dysfunction.
Physical Activity
The lack of physical exercise could cause erectile dysfunction. It doesn’t take much to significantly reduce your risk of erectile dysfunction, though. A daily 30 minute walk can already reduce your risk by 41%. 
The best solution is to lower your risk of ever getting erectile dysfunction by making the necessary lifestyle changes. Quit or reduce smoking and drinking and exercise regularly. This will also lower your risk of suffering from heart problems or diabetes, which can lead to erectile dysfunction. You should get yourself checked out by your doctor to rule out any serious health concerns if you suffer from erectile dysfunction.
After consulting your doctor, you might find that you are the right candidate for some medicines such as Viagra, Cialis or Levitra, which all increase the blood flow to the penis and help get and maintain an erection.
