The Physical Causes of Erectile Dysfunction

Did You Know: 90% of cases of erectile dysfunction are caused by physical factors.

The physical factors that cause and/or contribute to ED can be classified into two categories: vascular (related to blood flow) and non-vascular disease. It’s estimated that 70% of all ED cases may be attributable to vascular diseases alone.

The penis requires a healthy blood flow to become completely erect, and even a marginal reduction in blood flow can potentially cause problems. This condition is referred to as “vascular insufficiency”.

Furthermore, research indicates that more than 200 prescription medications can potentially cause, contribute to, or aggravate ED. However, it’s imperative that you must not discontinue your medications unless otherwise instructed by your physician. Other associated physical conditions or causes are less common.

These include:

  • Hormonal deficiencies caused by testicular disease, liver disease or thyroid problems.
  • Neurological problems such as Multiple Sclerosis, Stroke or Parkinson’s disease.
  • Trauma to the pelvic area as experienced in certain types of surgery, radiation therapy or automobile accidents resulting in damaged pelvic nerves or arteries.
  • Chronic illnesses such as chronic liver disease, chronic renal disease etc.
  • Peyronie’s plaque or disease, a peculiar condition of excessive fibrosis in the penile tissue

It’s not uncommon, however, to see ED in an otherwise completely healthy person, both physically and psychologically. It’s postulated that the penile circulation is intrinsically precarious, being an end-artery. As men age, partial obstructions to the blood flow of the penis may become more common. While this may in inconsequential under normal conditions, it may be enough to cause insufficient blood flow to the penis when sexually aroused.

  • Diabetes
  • Hypertension
  • High Blood Cholesterol
  • Cardiac diseases
  • Smoking
  • Poor Overall Circulation

To learn more about the symptoms, see: Erectile Dysfunction Symptoms.

The Psychological Causes of Erectile Dysfunction

Psychological factors account for about 10% of erection problems and often result from nervousness, performance anxiety or fear of failure during lovemaking.

These factors cause a surge of adrenaline which reduces blood flow to the penile area, often resulting in erectile difficulty. Psychological ED may become self-perpetuating. After several episodes of repeated failure, the body becomes accustomed to releasing adrenaline at the very thought of a sexual encounter. This can become a vicious cycle difficult to break without help.

Other less common causes include stress, low sexual drive, guilt, anxiety, sexual boredom or depression. The characteristics of psychological erectile dysfunction include:

  • The ability to achieve or maintain an erection with one partner but not with another.
  • The ability to achieve or maintain strong and lasting erections in the mornings and during masturbation but not during lovemaking.
  • The tendency to affect younger men with unstable relationships or unsettling past experiences.

To learn about your treatment options, see: Erectile Dysfunction Treatment Comparison.

Frequently Asked Questions

Read answers to questions about the causes of erectile dysfunction in Philadelphia.

How can SSRIs contribute to erectile dysfunction?

Medications used to treat depression and anxiety can sometimes affect sexual function. These medications can lower sexual desire and make it harder to get or keep an erection. SSRIs may also delay orgasm or make it feel less intense. This happens because SSRIs change how certain brain chemicals work, and those chemicals also play a role in sexual response.

What hormones affect erectile dysfunction?

Several hormones can affect erectile function. Testosterone, the main male sex hormone, plays a key role in sexual desire and the ability to get and maintain an erection. Low testosterone can make erections weaker and reduce libido.

Other hormones, like thyroid hormones and prolactin, also influence sexual function. Imbalances in these hormones can affect energy levels, mood, and blood flow.

How can heart problems contribute to erectile dysfunction?

Heart problems can contribute to erectile dysfunction because erections rely on healthy blood flow. When the heart or arteries are not working well due to heart disease, high blood pressure, or clogged arteries, less blood reaches the penis. Heart issues that affect blood flow can make it harder to get or keep an erection.

Can diabetes cause erectile dysfunction?

Yes. Diabetes can cause erectile dysfunction because it can damage blood vessels and nerves that help produce an erection. When blood flow or nerve signals are affected, it can be harder to get or keep an erection.

High blood sugar over time can also lower hormone levels and reduce sexual desire. Controlling diabetes through healthy eating, exercise, and proper medication can help protect your sexual health

Can depression or anxiety cause erectile dysfunction?

Yes. Your brain plays an important role in sending signals that trigger an erection. When you’re feeling stressed, anxious, or depressed, these signals can be interrupted and make it harder to get or maintain an erection. Mental health can also lower sexual desire and confidence, which can make ED worse over time.

How do smoking and drinking contribute to erectile dysfunction?

Smoking can damage blood vessels and reduce blood flow to the penis, making it harder to get or keep an erection. It can also affect hormone levels and nerve function, which are important for sexual health.

Drinking too much alcohol can interfere with the nervous system and hormone balance, and over time, it can weaken erections. Even occasional heavy drinking can make it harder to maintain firmness.

Schedule a Visit Today

Understanding the cause is the first step toward an effective solution. Since 90% of ED cases have a physical origin, an accurate diagnosis is crucial. Don’t play the guessing game; get the answers you need today.

Contact Progressive Men’s Health at (267) 507-0973​ today to schedule a confidential evaluation with our specialists. We can identify the underlying factors and guide you toward the treatment path that’s right for you.