Risk Factors for Erectile Dysfunction (Impotence)

A risk factor is something that raises the chances of getting a health problem. A person can get asthma with or without the ones listed below. The chances of getting erectile dysfunction (ED) are greater in people who have many risk factors.

Things that can raise the risk are:

Age

The risk of ED rises with age. It is most common in men over 40 years of age.

Health Problems

Certain health problems can raise the risk of ED, such as:

• Diabetes
• Cardiovascular disease
• Arteriosclerosis—hardening of the arteries
• Chronic kidney disease
• Cirrhosis
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Prostatitis
• Peyronie disease—curvature of the penis caused by scar tissue
• Endocrine disorders such as hypogonadism, hyperthyroidism , hypothyroidism , hyperprolactinemia, or Cushing syndrome
• Neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis , peripheral neuropathy , or stroke
• Myotonic dystrophy
• High blood pressure
• Mental health disorders such as anxiety , depression , or schizophrenia
• Mental health problems such as stress, relationship issues, or having a new partner

Trauma

Surgical or accidental trauma can raise the risk of erectile dysfunction. It may be caused by:

• Vascular surgery
• Urological surgery such as prostate surgery
• Pelvic surgeries, especially for prostate cancer
• Spinal cord injury
• Colorectal surgeries
• Surgeries and radiation done to treat cancer

Lifestyle

Some lifestyle factors can raise the risk of ED. These are:

• Alcohol use disorder
• Illegal drug use
• Anabolic steroid use
• Smoking

Medicines

Some medicines can raise the risk of ED. These are:

• High blood pressure medicines
• Antihistamines
• Antidepressants
• Tranquilizers
• Antipsychotics
• Histamine blockers
• Nicotine
• Chemotherapy