What You Should Know
ED can result from physical or psychological factors, or a combination of factors, which include medicine, alcohol or other drugs. The most common risk factors for ED are diabetes, high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol and cardiovascular disease. These can reduce blood flow into the penis, causing ED. Some choices we make in life can also lead to the development of ED. Smoking, drug or alcohol abuse; particularly over a long period of time, can also compromise the blood vessels of the penis. Lack of exercise and a sedentary lifestyle will contribute to the development of ED. Some men cannot maintain an erection because blood does not remain trapped in the penis. Certain diseases, injury, surgery or radiation therapy in the pelvic area can damage nerves in the penis.
