What is erectile dysfunction, what caused it and to what extent?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) can be defined as man's inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for introducing the penis into the vagina and the commission of a satisfactory sexual intercourse. Frequency of ED varies depending on age. If the age group 20 to 40 years, it averages 3 ף%, then aged 40 to 60 years, it occurs in 15 - 20% of men. At the age is older than 70 years, erectile dysfunction can disturb up to 30 㫊% of men. At any age, ED is not the norm, because ability to conduct regular and satisfactory sex life - is one of the essential functions of men of any age. Erectile dysfunction can be caused by two groups of reasons: psychological (psychogenic) and somatic (organic). Studies last 20 years have shown that ED is rarely enough due to purely psychological reasons (stress, depression, behavior, etc.). At the same time it became known that approximately 80% of all cases of erectile dysfunction caused by any physical (somatic, organic) conditions. These include: diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and atherosclerosis, renal and hepatic failure, thyroid disease, hormonal disorders, the effects of operations on the prostate and rectum, trauma and diseases of the spinal and brain (stroke , Alzheimer's disease, etc.), the effects of pelvic trauma, Peyronie's disease. Erectile dysfunction can be caused also by some medicines. Resistant Erectile dysfunction may develop as a result of such bad habits as drinking alcohol, smoking and drug use.