Before discussing the causes of erectile dysfunction, let's first define it: erectile dysfunction is a man's inability to have an erection for purposes of having sex. It also is the difficulty of a man to maintain an erection to finish the sex act.

Impotence is the other name for erectile dysfunction. It can happen to any male, but is more prevalent among older males - usually age 60 and older. This does not mean, however, that erectile dysfunction is a consequence of getting older. While older men may need more physical stimulation, they can still have a good sex life and derive pleasure from being intimate with their partner.

Causes of Erectile Dysfunction

Physical and medical problems can cause erectile dysfunction. Starting with the medical problems:

Erectile dysfunction can be triggered by:

• High blood sugar count

• Diabetes

• A heart condition called hardening of the arteries

If you are diagnosed with diabetes, can't control your sugar intake and develop clogged arteries, you could be at risk for erectile dysfunction. If you drink too much alcohol and take certain medicines, you could also be a candidate for erectile dysfunction. Other trigger factors include excessive smoking and the use and abuse of drugs.

Erectile dysfunction is also caused by some physical conditions, some of which are multiple sclerosis, stroke, prostate or bladder disorders, Parkinson's diseases, spinal cord problems, brain illnesses or fatigue.

A male who believes he has erectile dysfunction because he has relationship issues with his partner may want to speak to a counselor or behavioral therapist. There may be some emotions buried deep in him that need to be addressed. It is advisable for the man and his partner to go for sex therapy together.

New treatments for erectile dysfunction

Five years ago, Dr. Arthur Burnett, a urologist from Johns Hopkins Hospital was interviewed regarding new treatments for erectile dysfunction. He said that they are waiting for FDA approval and chances are they would be in the market soon. That was in 2003.

One of the treatments for erectile dysfunction is a new oral agent that is basically in the same class as Viagra. This represents the most exciting development in the field of erectile dysfunction.

The main difference between Viagra and this new oral agent is the length of time it stays in the body. It stays in the body longer and produces a good response rate 24 to 36 hours after taking it. This gives the male the opportunity to prolong the romantic mood and be more spontaneous. "You don't have to be rushed", Dr. Burnett said.

An online article which was reviewed by the Glickman Urological Institute of the Cleveland Clinic also reported on other oral medications that are under research: Uprima (used in Europe, but is pending US approval), Topiglan (a cream applied on the penis), Avanafil (an inhibitor), and Melanocortin activators (these act through the central nervous system).