The short answer is reduced blood flow to the penis. But what causes that? A number of factors can contribute to ED, Some are physical, while others have more to do with your mental wellness or from taking certain medications.
It’s important to know erection problems can happen to any man at any age. In fact EPs are remarkably common in younger men. By the age of 40, 4 in every 10 men may have some experience of EPs. Many of these men identify the stress of their professional and personal lives as a factor in their EPs.
Erection problems can put a strain on your relationship. They can also be a warning sign of a health condition or disease you might not be aware of. That’s why it’s important to take action and find a solution for your EPs. You should also talk to a pharmacist, as they’ll be able to provide further support.
Mental Wellness
Poor mental wellness and psychological factors can play an important role in erection problems by interfering with how the brain signals a physical response – in this case, an erection.
Some of the psuchological issues that can contribute to erection problems include;
- Stress : Modern life is stressful. Do you work long hours? Worry about money? When you’re stressed it’s hard to leave your worries at the bedroom door. ED is strongly linked to stress and anxiety.
- Depression: Depression and anxiety are the main psychological risk factors for erection problems in young men. Depression can often lead to a reduced libido.
- Low self-esteem : If you suffer from low self-esteem you might have a negative view of yourself and your abilities, and might feel you aren’t capable of satisfying your partner. Low self-esteem can stem from EPs and can also cause more serious EPs.
- Performance anxiety : Nervousness and anxiety about sex can lead to erection problems. This can trigger a vicious cycle of failure, the avoidance of sex, a negative impact on self-esteem, depression and increasing anxiety
- Relationship problems : Instability within your relationship can be a cause of erection problems
Physical wellness
Some things you can do to help
- Exercise- especially helpful at relieving stress and staying healthy
- Mindfulness- recommended as a method for preventing depression in those who have experienced it several times before.
- Counseling- talking to a therapist can help identify issues you maybe having
- Stop Smoking- has a harmful effect on your circulation,
- Eat healthy –Obesity can lead to heart disease such as arthrosclerosis which reduces your circulation
- Reduce Alcohol- excessive alcohol can cause ED
- Regular check up with your doctor- heart disease, high Cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity can all impact on your blood vessels, muscles and nerves. These conditions if left untreated are common causes of ED