What are the causes of erectile dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction can be subdivided in psychogenic and organic. Psychogenic erectile dysfunction, which is more common in younger men, cannot trace his origin to a physical problem or disease and is due to performance anxiety.

Organic erectile dysfunction is much more common than psychogenic erectile dysfunction and in most cases the causes can be easily identified. Once identified, proper treatment can be recommended to help patients return to a satisfying sexual life.

Organic erectile dysfunction is usually caused by an injury (to the brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerves or arteries), by a disease (diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol), by an operation (prostate gland removal, urinary bladder removal, surgery to the rectum, spinal surgery) and by substance abuse (tobacco, drugs, alcohol and some medications).

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