Learn all about the top five underlying health conditions that can cause erectile dysfunction (ED) and how to address them with GoRocky.
Quick Summary
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is often linked to broader ED causes such as underlying health conditions, signaling that your body may need attention beyond just sexual function. By addressing the root causes, you’re not only improving your sexual function but boosting your overall well-being. [1]
At GoRocky, we don’t just offer treatment; we’re here to support you every step of the way, providing expert guidance, resources, and a community dedicated to your health so you don’t just go around wondering what causes erectile dysfunction.
Let’s dive into six common health common causes of ED and explore how tackling them can make a real difference in your life as you also learn what causes ED.
Cardiovascular issues such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol can restrict blood flow to the penis, making it difficult to achieve or maintain an erection which is why it’s one of the top ED causes. These conditions that are some causes of ED affect circulation throughout the body, but improving your heart health can directly benefit your sexual performance.[2]
Quitting smoking, adopting a balanced diet, and engaging in regular physical activity can enhance blood flow and reduce the severity of ED. These heart-healthy changes not only boost your cardiovascular system but also improve sexual vitality.
Diabetes, particularly when poorly managed, damages both the blood vessels and nerves that are vital for erectile function. High blood sugar levels can lead to nerve damage and impaired circulation, both of which can be ED causes.[3]
By maintaining stable blood sugar levels through ED medications, a diabetes-friendly diet, and regular monitoring, you can improve your ability to manage diabetes-related ED.
Obesity and metabolic syndrome—a combination of high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess fat, and abnormal cholesterol levels—can disrupt hormone balance and restrict blood flow, both of which are key contributors to ED.[4]
Sustainable weight loss through portion control, healthy eating, and regular exercise can dramatically improve erectile function and overall health. Even small reductions in weight can restore healthy blood circulation and hormone regulation, reducing erectile dysfunction symptoms.
Neurological conditions like Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and spinal cord injuries interfere with the nerve signals required for erections. These disorders can complicate the process of achieving and maintaining an erection, making it crucial to adopt a comprehensive approach to care. [5]
Physical therapy can improve mobility and nerve function, while counseling or therapy can help manage the emotional effects of these conditions. A combination of physical and mental healthcare offers the best outcomes for ED related to neurological issues.
Hormonal imbalances, such as low testosterone or thyroid dysfunction, can directly affect libido and erectile function. These imbalances can also impact mood, leading to lower energy levels and reduced sexual interest.[6]
Monitoring hormone levels and pursuing hormone replacement therapy, if necessary, can restore balance by dealing with these common causes of erectile dysfunction and significantly improve sexual health.
Mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and chronic stress are major contributors to ED. These conditions can reduce sexual desire, make it difficult to maintain an erection, and create a cycle of stress and frustration that worsens sexual performance.[7]
Addressing mental health through therapy, counseling, or stress-reduction techniques is essential for improving ED related to psychological factors. A holistic approach that includes both mental and physical health support often leads to the best results.
Please keep in mind that consulting with a healthcare professional is essential when dealing with ED causes and solutions to ensure that you receive the most appropriate treatment.
At GoRocky, diagnosing and treating erectile dysfunction is simple and discreet. No need for awkward doctor visits or long waits—just complete our quick 4-minute online assessment from the comfort of your home. If approved, you can order and your prescription will be discreetly delivered to your door, saving you time and hassle so you never have to look up ‘erectile dysfunction therapist near me’ online.
Take our quick online assessment to start your journey towards a healthier sex life!
Yes, excessive alcohol consumption is one of the top ED causes we see. Alcohol is a depressant that can interfere with the signals between the brain and the body, impacting the ability to achieve or maintain an erection. Long-term heavy drinking can also damage blood vessels and affect hormone levels, both of which are critical for sexual function.
While kidney stones themselves do not directly cause ED, the pain and discomfort associated with them, as well as related stress or medications used for treatment, can contribute to temporary erectile difficulties. Additionally, any underlying kidney disease or urinary tract issues associated with kidney stones could impact overall health and become erectile dysfunction causes over time.
ED caused by anxiety or mental health issues can often be managed through therapy and emotional support. GoRocky's GoMental program offers PhilHealth members 6 free therapy sessions, where licensed therapists help address the anxiety, stress, or depression that may be contributing to ED. Alongside therapy, you'll also have access to any medications you may need.
At GoRocky, we are transforming men's health care with discreet, affordable, and accessible treatments for essential concerns such as erectile dysfunction, weight loss, hair loss, and premature ejaculation.
Our mission is to foster a culture where self-care is celebrated, aiming to build a society where men feel healthier, happier, and more confident. Starting with erectile dysfunction solutions such as ED medications, we also provide solutions such as hair loss treatments for men and products to help men last longer in bed.
We also provide tips on how to lose weight fast without exercise!
*The information provided on this platform is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
[1] Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Erectile dysfunction. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10035-erectile-dysfunction
[2] Shamloul, R., & Ghanem, H. (2013). Erectile dysfunction. Nature Reviews Urology, 10(2), 97–109. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4442980/
[3] Diabetes UK. (n.d.). Sexual problems for men. Retrieved from https://www.diabetes.org.uk/guide-to-diabetes/complications/sexual-problems-men#:~:text=Erectile%20dysfunction&text=Men%20with%20diabetes%20are%203x,re%20feeling%20at%20the%20time.
[4] Rajfer, J., & Sliwinski, A. (2001). Impact of cardiovascular disease on erectile dysfunction. Nature, 390, 1333. https://www.nature.com/articles/3901333
[5] Johns Hopkins Medicine. (n.d.). Erectile dysfunction. Retrieved from https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/erectile-dysfunction
[6] Endocrine Society. (n.d.). Hormones and erectile dysfunction. Retrieved from https://www.endocrine.org/patient-engagement/endocrine-library/pdf-library/hormones-and-erectile-dysfunction#:~:text=Hormones%20play%20a%20big%20role,getting%20or%20keeping%20an%20erection.
[7] Shamloul, R., & Ghanem, H. (2023). Psychogenic erectile dysfunction. Journal of Sexual Medicine, 20(3), 456–470. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9899110/
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