ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION

Erectile dysfunction previously termed impotence, is the consistent inability of an adult male to ejaculate or to attain or hold an erection long enough for sexual intercourse. Many cases of impotence are caused by nitric oxide (NO), which relaxes the smooth muscle of the penile arterioles and erectile tissue. The drug Viagara enhances smooth muscle relaxation by nitric oxide in the penis. Other causes of erectile dysfunction include diabetes mellitus, physical abnormalities of the penis, systemic disorders syphilis, vascular disturbances (arterial or venous obstructions), neurological disorders, surgery, testosterone deficiency, and drugs (alcohol, antidepressants, antihistamines, antihypertensives, narcotics, nicotine, and tranquilizers). Psychological factors such as anxiety or depression, fear of causing pregnancy, fear of sexually transmitted diseases, religious inhibitions, and emotional immaturity may also cause ED.