
What is Erectile Dysfunction (ED)?
It’s not unusual to experience ED occasionally. It’s something that a lot of men go through when they’re under a lot of pressure. However, frequent ED may be a sign of underlying health issues that need care. It may also be a sign of emotional or relationship issues that need clinical attention.
What causes an erection?
The muscles in the penis relax when a man is sexually aroused. This increases blood flow into the penile arteries, which fills two chambers inside the penis. The penis stiffens as the chambers fill with blood.
When the muscles contract and the accumulated blood will flow out of the penile veins, the erection will end.
What are the symptoms of ED?
You may have ED if you regularly experience:
having a hard time getting an erection
difficulty in keeping an erection during sexual intercourse
interest is sex diminished
Other sexual disorders related to ED include:
premature ejaculation (PE)
delayed ejaculation
anorgasmia, or the inability to achieve orgasm after optimal stimulation
Growing older is a significant risk factor for ED. It can become more difficult to obtain or sustain an erection as you get older. You will also note that getting an erection needs more direct stimulation.
The following are some additional ED risk factors:
diagnosed with a medical condition such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease
having a psychiatric disorder such as anxiety or depression
being overweight, particularly obese
Causes of ED