Understanding the Root Causes of Erectile Dysfunction

What most people don’t know is erectile dysfunction is common among men. It affects many men at some point in their lives. Every man suffers once in a lifetime from erectile dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction (ED), also known as impotence, is a condition in which a man cannot achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse. The importance of understanding the causes and risk factors of erectile dysfunction lies in the fact that it can be a sign of underlying health problems, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes. It occurs when the complex process involved in achieving and maintaining an erection is disrupted. This process involves coordination between the brain, nerves, hormones, muscles, and blood circulation, and any interference can prevent achieving a sustained erection. Getting and maintaining an erection requires the proper functioning of multiple systems, making it vulnerable to various factors that can impact sexual performance. Understanding the causes and risk factors of erectile dysfunction is essential for addressing the underlying issues and improving overall sexual health.  

Physical Factors  

Physical causes of erectile dysfunction can stem from various health conditions that affect the proper functioning of the systems involved in achieving an erection.  

 Some of the common physical causes include:  

1. Cardiovascular diseases: They can impact blood flow to the penis and disrupt the process of achieving and maintaining an erection. This can be due to various factors, such as the hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis), high blood pressure, and heart disease. These conditions can limit the amount of blood that flows to the penis, making it difficult to achieve and maintain an erection.   

2. Diabetes: Diabetic neuropathy can cause nerve damage that interferes with the signals needed for an erection, and uncontrolled diabetes can affect blood flow to the penis. In addition, uncontrolled diabetes can lead to other health problems that can contribute to erectile dysfunction, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and obesity. Individuals with diabetes need to work with their healthcare provider to manage their blood sugar levels and address related health problems that can impact sexual health.  

3. Hormonal imbalances: The hormones most commonly associated with ED are testosterone, cortisol, and prolactin. Low testosterone levels, the primary male sex hormone, can impact sexual function and lead to erectile dysfunction. On the other hand, high cortisol levels can lead to increased anxiety and decreased sexual function.  

4. Neurological Disorders: Some neurological disorders that can lead to ED include-   

• Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects the brain's ability to control muscle movement. It can also affect sexual function, causing ED.
• Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system and can cause erectile dysfunction by damaging the nerves responsible for sexual function.
• Spinal cord injuries can cause an interruption in the nerve signals that are responsible for sexual function.
• Strokes can cause impotence by damaging the brain or the nerves responsible for sexual function.
• Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects memory and cognitive function, and it can cause ED as a result of decreased sexual desire and decreased testosterone levels.

5. Penile Injuries: Trauma to the penis, such as penile fractures or Peyronie's disease, can lead to erectile dysfunction. Penile injuries affect the normal functioning of the penis. Treatment options for ED due to penile injuries may include medication, therapy, and surgery to repair the damaged tissue. It is important to seek medical attention promptly if you suspect you have sustained a penile injury.  

Physical causes of erectile dysfunction can often be treated or managed with appropriate medical intervention, making it crucial to seek medical advice if experiencing persistent difficulties in achieving and maintaining an erection. 

Psychological Factors  

1. Stress – It affects the body by releasing hormones, such as cortisol, that can cause decreased blood flow to the penis. Stress can also affect the nervous system, causing decreased sexual desire and performance anxiety.  

2. Depression - It can cause decreased sexual desire and ED due to decreased testosterone levels and decreased blood flow to the penis. Depression can also cause decreased energy levels, confidence, and self-esteem, further contributing to ED.  

3. Anxiety – It affects the body by releasing hormones that can cause decreased blood flow to the penis. Anxiety can also affect the nervous system, causing decreased sexual desire and performance.  

4. Relationship problems – When it comes to relationship problems, stress, anxiety, and depression play a key role. All the above-mentioned psychological factors can exacerbate relationship issues. A strained relationship can put a great deal of pressure on a man, causing him to feel insecure and unable to perform sexually.  

These psychological causes of ED can be treated with medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes. It is important to seek help if you are experiencing ED and are unsure of the underlying cause. An online appointment sexologist can help you determine the cause of your ED and develop a treatment plan that is right for you.  

Also read: Unani Treatment: A Cure for Erectile Dysfunction 

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Lifestyle Factors

1. Poor diet – It can lead to ED in several ways. First, consuming a diet high in processed foods and low in nutrients can negatively impact overall health and lead to several health problems, including obesity, high blood pressure, and heart disease. These conditions can impair blood flow and cause ED. In addition, a diet low in nutrients such as vitamins and minerals can also impact testosterone levels, which are crucial for sexual function. To prevent ED, it is important to consume a healthy, balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains and limit processed foods, unhealthy fats, and added sugars.  

2. Lack of exercise – It can lead to problems with achieving and maintaining an erection. Regular physical activity helps improve circulation, which is crucial for achieving and maintaining an erection. When a man is inactive, his circulation can become sluggish, reducing blood flow to the penis. Additionally, a sedentary lifestyle can contribute to other health issues that directly affect the man’s ability to perform sexually.  

3. Smoking – It is a major contributor to erectile dysfunction as it affects the blood flow to the penis. Nicotine in cigarettes constricts blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the penis and making it difficult to achieve and maintain an erection. In addition, smoking causes the formation of plaque in blood vessels, which can also restrict blood flow to the penis. 

4. Alcohol and Substance Abuse – This can significantly impact a person's sexual health, leading to ED (erectile dysfunction). Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant that can impair sexual function and reduce libido. Excessive alcohol consumption can also lead to decreased testosterone levels. Substance abuse, such as the use of cocaine and marijuana, can also have negative effects on sexual performance. These drugs can cause a decrease in blood flow to the penis. Additionally, the use of drugs can lead to a range of physical and mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, and stress, all of which can contribute to ED.

Also read: 5 Best Hamdard Medicines for Premature Ejaculation 

Unani Hamdard Medicines for Erectile Dysfunction  

1. Arq-e- Amber   

Arq-e-Amber is a traditional herbal medicine used in Unani and Ayurvedic systems of medicine for various health issues, particularly for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. It is very useful in increasing sexual vim and vigor in males. It is also an excellent cardio-brain tonic. Apart from that, it also tones nerves and safeguards libido in males.  

Dosage- 60 ml of Arq-e-Amber should be taken twice a day orally, along with Anar Sharbat.  

2. Qurs Kushta Qalai  

Qurs Kushta Qalai has been used for centuries to improve sexual health and function. It is useful in treating spermatorrhea, premature ejaculation, impotence, infertility, erectile dysfunction, weakness of nerves, and debility. Additionally, it is also believed to help reduce anxiety and stress.   

Dosage- 2 tablets of Qurs Kushta Qalai should be taken once daily with milk after a meal.  

3. Majun Ispand Sokhtani   

It is a type of aphrodisiac. Majun Aspand Sokhtani has been known to increase circulation, boost testosterone levels, and enhance libido. It may also increase blood flow to the penile erectile chambers, which leads to control erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation.  

Dosage- 1/2 tsp of the major should be taken with lukewarm water twice daily after meals.  

4. Majun Piyaaz   

Majun-e-Piyaz is an Unani pharmacopeial formulation indicated in treating male sexual problems and has been in use for centuries. Hence, it should be considered the first line of a drug in managing premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction.  

Dosage- 1 tsp of the major should be taken twice daily with plain water or milk.  

5. Safooff Aslassoos 

This is Unani classical medicine in the form of powder. It can be beneficial in male sexual diseases. Its name is due to its chief ingredient Aslussoos (Glycyrrhiza glabra root).  

Dosage- 1 tsp with water or milk at bedtime  

Before using any herbal medicine, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for guidance and to ensure safety. You can either have an online sexologist appointment or visit one. 

Conclusion  

According to research, 1 out of every 10 men is impotent. And nearly 25 out of every 100 men with Erectile Dysfunction (ED) are below 30 years. Seeking treatment is crucial for maintaining sexual health and improving the overall quality of life. Early intervention and a comprehensive approach to treatment can help prevent ED from becoming a chronic condition. This may involve a combination of lifestyle changes, medications, or therapy.  

Open and honest communication with healthcare providers is key to accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. A holistic approach has always been proven to cure sexual and other chronic issues from the root without any side effects. HealthyBazar, a 100-year-old brand, has some of the best and most genuine AYUSH doctors to help cure every physical and psychological issue.