When a male is sexually stimulated signals are transmitted from the brain that cause blood to rush into the penis subsequently creating an erection. Erectile dysfunction (ED), better known as impotence, is the inability to achieve and / or maintain an erection. The causes of ED are many and varied, including spinal cord injury and axiomatic brain injury (stroke). The penis may not work properly when the nerves that carry signals to and from the penis are damaged.

Despite the widespread public perception that ED is an "old man's disease," it is not a normal part of the aging process. While it is true that ED affects older men more so than younger, this is simply due to the fact that older men tend to have more health problems that can impact male potency.

Certain medications such as antidepressants and diabetic medicines list ED as a common side effect. In fact, diabetes itself tends to degenerate vascular function (blood vessel health), impeding blood flow to the penis and resulting in poor erection control. Heavy smokers and drinkers also experience problems achieving and maintaining erections.

See Also

  1. Male Infertility: Overview
  2. Priapism: Overview
  3. Androstenedione (Andro)
  4. Lipari Landfill: Overview
  5. Manganese Exposure: Overview
  6. Phthalates Exposure: Overview
  Name Size