Erectile dysfunction, also referred to as impotence, is defined by a consistent inability to achieve an erection for sexual activity. There are many different reasons for which a man may be suffering from erectile dysfunction, including anxiety, high blood pressure, and obesity. Some of the less common causes of erectile dysfunction include medication, mood changes, smoking and cycling. Learn more about the lesser known triggers of erectile dysfunction.
Erectile dysfunction is diagnosed when a man is consistently unable to achieve an erection firm enough for sex and sexual activity. A man may have occasional erection problems, but not suffer from erectile dysfunction. It is estimated that as many as 30 million men in the United States suffer from some form of erectile dysfunction.Erectile dysfunction is a condition that varies widely in severity and side effects.
Any man, regardless of age, weight, or health condition, may experience erectile dysfunction. However, those who are older, live a more sedentary lifestyle, or are overweight are more likely to experience erectile dysfunction. The most common causes of erectile dysfunction include the following:
Not all cases of erectile dysfunction are brought on by performance anxiety, diabetes, or weight gain. Contrary to popular belief, impotence can be initiated by certain foods, smoking, prescriptions medications, or health conditions such as Peyroine’s and Parkinson’s Disease. If you are experiencing erectile dysfunction and are wondering why, your condition may be the result of one of the following eight less common causes of erectile dysfunction.
Foods high in fat, sugar, cholesterol, and other unhealthy substances are known to contribute to erectile dysfunction. The popular phrase “you are what you eat” is certainly applicable when it comes to erectile dysfunction. High consumption of the following types of food has been found to lead to erectile dysfunction:
An unhealthy diet, especially one high in cholesterol, can inhibit blood flow and contribute to erectile dysfunction. High cholesterol levels increase the risk of atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by narrowing of the arteries and inhibited blood flow. Additionally, a poor diet high in fat and sugar can lead to buildup around the arteries, heart attack, and stroke.
Long-term smoking damages blood vessels and veins in a variety of ways. Multiple chemicals in cigarettes cause the cells that line the blood vessels to become inflamed and swollen.. The nicotine in cigarettes can also constrict blood vessels and blood flow to produce a calming effect. Over time, this constant constriction and subsequent relaxation can damage the blood vessel.
Some medications significantly affect blood flow to multiple areas of the body, including the penis and groin area. The following medications are known to contribute to erectile dysfunction:
It is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before taking or changing your dose of any of the above medications. Increasing or decreasing dosage can result in unwanted side effects.
Feelings of stress and anxiety can impact health and your sex life and contribute to erectile dysfunction. Experiencing erectile dysfunction can also worsen issues of depression and mood.
Peyronie’s disease is a connective tissue disease that affects the penis. It classifies as an unexpected cause of erectile dysfunction not because it is only loosely related to ED, but rather because it is only rarely diagnosed and referred to. Peyronie’s disease is characterized by painful, bent erections and the appearance of penile plaque. It is often caused by repeated penile pressure and injury which typically occurs during sexual activity.
Chronic medical illnesses tend to disrupt the sexual response cycle, including phases of arousal and sexual desire. Certain chronic diseases that are known to contribute to erectile dysfunction include multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, heart disease, and both types of diabetes.
Long cycling trips without breaks require one to spend hours in the same position. Most cycling positions and postures can compress blood vessels and nerves around the groin and penis. In addition, some saddles, seats, and bicycles are more likely to cause erectile dysfunction than others. If you experience erectile dysfunction immediately or shortly after completing a cycling workout, your exercise routine may be to blame. Take your bike to a cycling specialist or bike store to determine if the seat position is the cause of the problem.
Erectile dysfunction is a very common condition for which there are multiple available treatments. Popular medications for erectile dysfunction include tadalafil, sildenafil, and vardenafil. Additional treatment options include implanted devices, counseling, and exercises to improve blood flow.
Erectile dysfunction is a common condition characterized by a consistent inability to achieve an erection firm enough for sexaul activity. It affects an estimated 30 million men in the United States.
Many cases of erectile dysfunction are thought to be caused by aging, weight gain, and high blood pressure. However, a number of ED cases are the result of less common conditions such as Peyroine’s disease, chronic diseases, smoking, and certain medications.
