Causes of EPs
CAUSES OF EPs
There are many different causes of EPs, and there is no one customer profile. It can affect men of any age, and failing to get and/or keep an erection hard enough for sex can be an occasional or regular occurrence.
Causes include:1,4
Physical
Changes in blood flow to the penis can cause EPs. Narrowing of the blood vessels is linked with hypertension, high cholesterol or diabetes. Other physical causes may include hormonal problems or injury. In fact, EPs can be an early indication of cardiovascular disease. To find out more, click here
Psychological
Psychological causes include depression, lack of arousal, performance anxiety, stress and low self-esteem. If it is an occasional occurrence, it may be more likely to have a psychological link
Medicine side-effect
Some prescription medicines, such as antihypertensives, diuretics and antidepressants, are associated with EPs
Lifestyle factors
Recreational drug use, unhealthy diet, excess alcohol consumption, being overweight, cycling for more than 3 hours a week, lack of exercise and smoking may contribute to EPs
ED AND THE LINK TO CVD6,7
ED can be a warning sign of cardiovascular disease (CVD). CVD describes conditions that affect the heart or blood vessels, including angina, heart attack and stroke. It is usually associated with blocked blood vessels. The blood vessels in the penis are smaller and narrower than those elsewhere. Therefore, they can become blocked with fatty deposits more quickly.
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Penile artery 1-2mmSupplies blood to the penis
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Coronary artery 3-4mmSupplies blood to the heart
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Carotid artery 5-7mmSupplies blood to the brain and face
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Femoral artery 6-8mmSupplies blood to the thigh and leg