The following factors increase the risk of having a problem with the blood vessels or nerves that are needed to have normal erections:
Diabetes. Between 35 and 50% of men with diabetes have erection problems. About half of men with diabetes develop erection problems within five years of being diagnosed with diabetes.
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High blood pressure, blood vessel disease, stroke
High cholesterol and low HDL (high density lipoproteins) cholesterol (a "good" form of cholesterol that protects you against heart disease)
Low levels of the hormones needed for the normal development and function of the sex organs (hypogonadism). This leads to low levels of testosterone, the hormone necessary for erections, but does not affect the nerves or blood vessels. Thyroid problems may also increase the risk of erection problems.
Multiple sclerosis
Injury to the penis or pelvic region
Pelvic surgery or radiation treatment
Use of drugs to treat high blood pressure or depression, diuretics, or tranquillisers
Chronic alcohol or recreational drug abuse, cigarette smoking
The following factors increase the risk of a psychological cause of erection problems:
Depression
Anxiety or stress
Relationship problems
Recent major life change (birth of a child, retirement, job change, loss or death of a partner, divorce, marriage)
Reviewed by Dr Werner Botha Specialist Urologist, Cape Town Medi-clinic.
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