Erectile dysfunction can be a true nightmare in the lives of some men. This is because it is a problem that directly affects their sexuality and how they deal with it, potentially leading to several other issues. But know that erectile dysfunction can be treated in various ways, always depending on what caused it. How do you know that? Today, we will talk in greater depth about this subject so you can have all the information you need to deal with this type of problem.
What is Erectile Dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction occurs when a man is unable to have a full erection or one that is sexually satisfying. This problem can have several origins, from physical issues like diabetes and hormonal disorders to psychological problems that can affect a man’s life on many levels. Although it is a much more common problem in older men, it is not unusual to see cases of erectile dysfunction in young men, even though the reasons for this usually differ.
What Causes Erectile Dysfunction?
To better understand what erectile dysfunction is, it is also important to know its main causes and why it can become a problem. For this reason, let’s talk a bit more in depth about them. The main causes of erectile dysfunction are:
- Poor Lifestyle Habits
- Psychological Problems
- Hormonal Disorders
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Changes in Cholesterol and Triglycerides
Poor Lifestyle Habits
It has been proven that a sedentary lifestyle increases the chances of a man having erectile dysfunction. For this reason, maintaining healthy habits such as a balanced diet and regular physical exercise is a good way to prevent this type of problem.
Psychological Problems
Not every type of erectile dysfunction occurs due to physical issues. Often, the problem is psychological, especially regarding anxiety. We’ll talk more about this subject later when we discuss the types of erectile dysfunction, but it’s important to understand that this is also one of its causes.
Hormonal Disorders
A man’s erection depends on several factors, such as the proper functioning of his blood vessels and hormones. Therefore, conditions like diabetes and low testosterone can lead a man to have erection problems.
Smoking
Smoking is a habit that, in the long run, can cause erectile dysfunction in a man. When combined with a sedentary lifestyle, the problem can become even worse.
Obesity
Because it requires a significant increase in blood flow to the penis region, obese men are more likely to have erectile dysfunction problems. Once again, the risks further increase when this factor is combined with others such as smoking and sedentarism.
Changes in Cholesterol and Triglycerides
Changes in cholesterol and triglycerides can also cause a man to develop erection problems, since these issues directly affect blood circulation.
Types of Erectile Dysfunction
Now that you understand what erectile dysfunction is and what its main causes are, we can delve deeper and talk about the existing types. They are:
- Primary Erectile Dysfunction
- Secondary Erectile Dysfunction
- Situational Erectile Dysfunction
- Total Erectile Dysfunction
- Partial Erectile Dysfunction
Let’s explain each of these types separately.
Primary Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction is considered primary when it occurs from a man’s very first sexual encounters, whatever the reason. During a consultation, it is important for a doctor to know whether it is primary erectile dysfunction or not, as this may influence the treatment.
Secondary Erectile Dysfunction
Secondary erectile dysfunction occurs when a man has already had several normal sexual relationships in the past and then developed this problem. In this case, other types of measures should be taken.
Situational Erectile Dysfunction
Situational erectile dysfunction happens only under certain conditions, such as when the man is under great stress or emotional strain. This type of problem is usually psychological and is even common among young men, who may be anxious or nervous during their first sexual encounters.
Total Erectile Dysfunction
Total erectile dysfunction is when the man’s penis shows no sign of erection, even when stimulated.
Partial Erectile Dysfunction
Partial erectile dysfunction is when a man can achieve an erection, but not a full one, meaning it is not satisfactory for having a normal sexual relationship.
Treatments for Erectile Dysfunction
The treatment for erectile dysfunction will always depend on the problem that caused it. If the man has diabetes, for example, it is important to treat the disease so that he can have a normal sex life again. When a man notices that he has this type of problem, it is always important to visit a doctor so that the necessary tests can be done and the causes investigated. Self-medicating should never be done, since you might not treat the problem properly and may even risk having other types of complications.
How to Prevent Erectile Dysfunction?
As there are many causes of erectile dysfunction, it is practically impossible to talk about a single way to prevent this problem. Nevertheless, there are some measures you can take that are beneficial in many respects, such as:
- Avoid excess alcohol and smoking
- Do not use drugs
- Maintain a good diet
- Maintain good psychological health
- Exercise regularly
Although these steps are not a guarantee that all problems will be solved, they can greatly help not only in fighting erectile dysfunction but also other health issues. 
Consequences of Not Seeking Treatment
For various reasons, some men do not seek treatment for erectile dysfunction. The main one is the shame of openly speaking about sexual problems, which can lead to other consequences. When a man cannot achieve sexual satisfaction, psychological problems can arise, such as depression and anxiety disorders, for example. Besides, when the problem is not treated and its cause lies elsewhere in the body, as when erectile dysfunction occurs due to diabetes, a man may develop several other more serious issues. Therefore, it is important to see a doctor and address this problem as openly as possible so you can have a healthy sex life without this type of issue. Remember, impotence is not related to infertility. They are different things. A man can produce sperm in normal quantity and quality and still not have an adequate erection. It is very important for men to know how to deal with their own bodies and their sexuality. As you can see, many problems can arise due to erectile dysfunction, and often these are psychological. That’s why it’s important to know exactly what erectile dysfunction is, what causes it, and, above all, how to treat it in the best possible way. Only then can a man truly understand the problem and be able to overcome it. We all need a healthy sex life, and taking issues like erectile dysfunction seriously is very helpful in this regard. See also: Infertility and mental health
