photo taken from buzzle.com
Impotence is one of the medical conditions dreaded by men. Although it may occur as a sign of aging, impotence can be caused by several factors.
What causes impotence?
The onset of vascular diseases such as Arteriosclerosis is attributed as one of the underlying causes of impotence. Arteriosclerosis refers to the hardening and contracting of the arteries, a condition which results to a reduction in blood flow. According to studies, men over 60 have a 50-60% chance of developing this condition. Aside from impotence, Arteriosclerosis also causes the development of various risk factors including diabetes, hypertension and high cholesterol.
Another ailment that often leads to impotence is Diabetes. Men diagnosed with this medical condition experience chronic high levels of blood sugar. This condition, which causes damages in small blood vessels and nerves, can weaken nerve impulses and blood flow needed for erection. Although impotence may not happen to all diabetic patients, the inability to have an erection was common among 60% of males with diabetes.
Other factors like the excessive intake of medication have also been linked to impotence. In fact more than 200 prescribed drugs are pointed as the cause of impotence, particularly antidepressants, tranquilizers, sedatives as well as drugs for hypertension. Consistent use of alcohol and illegal drugs also impact the vascular and nervous systems which may lead to erectile dysfunction.
Hormone disorders are also one of the major male impotence causes. Testosterone deficiency, which occurs rarely, can reduce sexual drive thus causing an inability to have an erection. On the other hand, excess production of prolactin can also minimize testosterone levels.
Neurologic conditions such as spinal cord and brain injuries can also lead to erectile dysfunction, especially when the nerve impulses from the brain to the penis are impaired. Other nerve related disorders like Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and Alzheimer’s disease may also cause impotence.
Secondary to biological factors, negative moods such as anxiety, depression, guilt, and stress also contributes to libido loss and impotence. For instance, if a man loses his ability to maintain an erection, he may grow anxious and expect the incident to recur. This is often a bad sign since the development of anxiety due to any issues regarding sexual performance can cause other problems during sex. If this goes on, the body adapts and the person may develop impotence.
