Erectile dysfunction (ED) can be caused by physical or psychological issues. Physical issues like heart disease, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, and smoking can all cause ED. Additionally, certain diseases and conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart and blood vessel disease, atherosclerosis, chronic kidney disease, multiple sclerosis, Peyronie’s disease, and injury from treatments for prostate cancer can lead to ED. Other physical causes of ED include nerve damage, hormonal imbalances, and side effects of certain medications.
Psychological factors such as depression, anxiety, stress, and relationship problems can also interfere with sexual feelings and cause or worsen ED. For example, a minor physical condition that slows sexual response might cause anxiety about maintaining an erection, which can lead to or worsen ED.
In summary, the main causes of ED are physical issues such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes, as well as psychological factors such as depression, anxiety, and stress.