Erectile Dysfunction
Many men suffer with erectile dysfunction, or impotence, meaning that they are unable to develop an erection when sexually aroused. There are numerous medical complaints of which impotence is but a relatively easily rectified symptom, and many more psychological or mood problems that can result in erectile dysfunction.
When impotence is caused by a medical problem, there will usually be an aspect of the process by which erections are developed that is not functioning correctly. This will prevent the sufferer from achieving any erection at all – even a slight or weak one. When the man suffering erectile dysfunction is able to achieve an erection (during the night or in the mornings, for example), medical professionals will usually assume that the problem is a psychological one and treat it as such.
A consultation with a doctor will usually involve blood tests to ascertain that the problem is not caused by diabetes, a common cause. Other medical complaints that can result in impotence are long-term use of SSRIs, neural problems and cardiovascular disease. Doctors will also usually ask questions about the sufferers lifestyle, as poor health, unhealthy diet, lack of exercise and smoking, drinking and recreational drug use are all major contributory factors in erectile dysfunction.
Sexual arousal – and consequent erection – can be generated by physical and mental stimuli, but both forms of arousal utilize the same systems in the body. Failing to achieve erections an unusually high amount of the time can indicate damage or disease in these areas, so GPs will usually want to check for neural and pituitary gland problems, cardiovascular disease and low testosterone levels.
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