Erectile dysfunction may be part of the aging process. Physical and emotional stress can affect the ability to obtain an erection. Fatigue certainly contributes to the problem, as do other health problems and certain medications. Diabetes, hypertension and heart disease are common contributors to sexual dysfunction because of the medications used to treat these conditions and because of the effect these diseases can have on blood flow to the penis. Other common factors that may contribute to sexual dysfunction are the use of tobacco products, the consumption of alcohol, and the use of mind-altering drugs.
Erectile dysfunction is the result of a single, or more commonly a combination of multiple factors.
Some of the many causes of impotence include, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart and vascular disease, stress, hormone problems, pelvic surgery, trauma, venous leak, and side effects of frequently prescribed medications. No matter what the cause, most men have a secondary psychological reaction that can worsen the situation. Feelings of performance anxiety, guilt, and low self-esteem are common. The penis is a highly vascular organ that fills with blood in the excited state to produce an erection. The penile artery brings blood to the penis and the dorsal penile veins allow blood return to the body.