Erections depend on healthy arteries, intact nerves, balanced hormones, and a relaxed mind. Erectile dysfunction can arise when any of these systems fall short, and most men have more than one contributing factor.
- Vascular causes: Atherosclerosis, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and smoking reduce blood flow to the penile arteries. According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, the same plaque that narrows coronary arteries also narrows the smaller penile arteries first, making ED an early warning of heart disease.
- Neurogenic causes: Diabetic neuropathy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, spinal cord injury, and prior pelvic surgery (such as radical prostatectomy) can disrupt the nerve signals needed for erection.
- Hormonal causes: Low testosterone, thyroid imbalance, and elevated prolactin can reduce libido and impair erectile function. Many men benefit from a thorough hormone workup and, when appropriate, our testosterone replacement therapy program.
- Psychogenic causes: Performance anxiety, depression, relationship stress, and post-traumatic stress disorder can trigger or worsen ED, especially in younger men with no other risk factors.
- Medication side effects: Some blood pressure medications, antidepressants, antihistamines, and opioids contribute to ED. Adjusting medications under medical supervision can sometimes resolve symptoms.
- Penile and pelvic floor issues: Peyronie's disease, venous leak, and weak pelvic floor muscles can each impair the ability to maintain an erection. Strengthening the pelvic floor with Emsella pelvic floor therapy is a non-invasive option for men with pelvic floor weakness.
Identifying which factors apply to you is the first step in choosing a treatment that actually works.
