Everyday Causes of Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction, formerly known as impotence can be caused by a number of factors, including illnesses such as diabetes or high blood pressure; pelvic trauma or injury; and nerve damage caused by prostate, colon, or kidney surgery. However, erectile dysfunction is common among young men who don't have any of these issues. In cases such as these simple, every day factors may be to blame.

Smoking

If you are a young man dealing with erectile dysfunction who is not dealing with any of these illnesses or issues, you should look at your daily habits to ascertain the causes of your erection issues. Smokers, for example, are more likely to develop erectile dysfunction than non-smokers. Smoking inhibits blood circulation, and if you smoke two or more cigarettes per day, you have a high chance of restricting blood flow in your penis, which will cause erectile dysfunction.

Alcohol Use

Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol will have a depressive effect on your nervous system, restricting the necessary signals to create an erection. Erectile dysfunction will not necessarily occur with moderate drinking, but long term overuse of alcohol will be detrimental to your ability to achieve and maintain an erection. You may even be affected at times when you are not drinking.

Stress

Excessive stress and tension can lead to erectile dysfunction; those who are under constant stress or strain often experience difficulties in achieving an erection at some point in their lives. This is probably a secondary symptom caused by high blood pressure or heart issues in relation to your lifestyle.

Drug Use

Illicit drug use, such as use of marijuana or cocaine can negatively affect your ability to maintain an erection. Some drugs depress the nervous system, while others increase your blood pressure and stimulate your heart rate. In either case, your blood flow or your nervous system are adversely affected, leading to erectile dysfunction.