
Dr. Vaibhav Lunkad
You need not worry if you’re periodically being unable to achieve erection. However, if it’s a continuous problem, there could be serious underlying issues. The signs of ED include difficulty achieving erection any time or each time you desire intercourse, difficulty sustaining erection long enough to have intercourse and diminished libido or sexual drive. Its causes include a variety of physical, psychological or a combination of both factors. Health conditions (heart disorders, high BP, high cholesterol, overweight or obesity, type 2 diabetes, chronic kidney disease, Parkinson's disease, Peyronie's disease, metabolic syndrome, atherosclerosis, multiple sclerosis, sleep troubles, etc.), certain prescription medications (antidepressants, appetite suppressants, drugs for BP, etc.), prostate cancer treatments if these cause injuries, bladder cancer surgery, spinal cord or pelvic area injuries, substance abuse, etc. are among the physical triggers. Whereas, stress, anxiety, depression, other mental health issues, fearing sexual failure, poor self-esteem or relationship issues (due to bad communication, stress or other reasons) are the potential psychological causes of ED.