Erectile Dysfuntion (Impotence)

Erectile dysfunction (also called impotence) means that a man can't get an erection to have sex or can't keep an erection long enough to finish having sex. Erectile dysfunction can occur at any age, but it is more common in men older than 65. However, erectile dysfunction doesn't have to be a part of getting older. It's true that as you get older, you may need more stimulation (such as stroking and touching) to get an erection. You might also need more time between erections. But older men should still be able to get an erection and enjoy sex.

There are many potential causes of erectile dysfunction. Because impotence can be caused by serious health problems, a man experiencing erectile dysfunction should consult his physician first in order to rule out physical causes for the problem. The possibilities in terms of physical and medical causes include:

• Alcohol use

• Fatigue

• Brain or spinal-cord injuries

• Liver or kidney failure

• Multiple sclerosis

• Radiation therapy to the testicles

• Stroke

• Some types of prostate or bladder surgery

• Diabetes (high blood sugar)

• Hypertension (high blood pressure)

• Side effect of medication

There are also non-physical problems that cause erectile dysfunction, including problems in your relationship with your sexual partner.  Psychological disorders, such as depression and anxiety, can also cause erectile dysfunction. Other feelings that can lead to importance include:

• Feeling nervous about sex, perhaps because of a bad experience or a previous episode of impotence.

• Feeling stressed, including stress from work or family situations.

• Being troubled by problems in your relationship with your sex partner.

• Feeling depressed.

• Feeling so self-conscious that you can't enjoy sex.

• Thinking that your partner is reacting negatively to you.

 

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