This condition becomes more common as an individual gets older; however, it is not a natural part of aging. Physical and psychological issues may cause erectile dysfunction. Some physical causes that may contribute to ED are: damage to the nerves, arteries, smooth muscles, and fibrous tissues in the penis. Psychological issues that contribute to ED are: anxiety or depression, panic of sexual failure, culpability, low self-esteem, and stress. There are also several diseases that may lead to erectile dysfunction. These diseases include: high blood pressure, diabetes, hyperglycemia, atherosclerosis, heart and blood vessel disease, chronic kidney disease, multiple sclerosis, and injury to the penis, spinal cord, prostate, bladder, or pelvis. Taking medications, chronic illnesses, poor blood flow to the penis, drinking too much alcohol, being too tired, being overweight, and not exercising are also factors that may cause ED. Many men experience erectile dysfunction caused or worsened by lifestyle choices. These choices include: consuming alcohol, smoking, or being overweight. Men with a certain disease that can cause ED are more likely to develop the condition. Erectile dysfunction occurs in approximately 12 percent of men younger than 60, about 20 percent of men age 60 to 69, and about 30 percent of men age 70 or older have …show more content…
These complications are: a dissatisfied sex life, depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem, a loss of intimacy between the couple, and inability to get the partner pregnant. The type of treatment an individual with erectile dysfunction receives depends on the cause and severity of the erectile dysfunction and if health conditions are present. Oral treatments are usually a successful ED treatment for men with this condition. The medications consist of: Sildenafil (Viagra), Tadalafil, Vardenafil, and Avanafil. These medications improve the results of nitric oxide, which is a chemical produced by the body that helps relax the muscles in the penis. This enhances blood flow and permits and an erection due to sexual stimulation. The medications help strengthen the signal of the release of nitric oxide, which allow men to function as usual. Other medications for erectile dysfunction include: self- injections, Alprostadil urethral suppository, and testosterone replacement. If medications are not effective in treating ED, other treatments available are: penis pumps, penile implants, and blood vessel surgery. Psychological counseling is also a treatment option it the erectile dysfunction is generated by stress, anxiety or