Impotence refers to an erectile dysfunction where a male isn't able to keep himself aroused for a longer duration of time. The reasons for this problem range from psychological to physical or even genetic at times. Arousal leads to a penile erection which happens when the blood rushes into the sponge-like bodies within and retains for a specific period of time, this results into a sexual arousal. All of this process occurs only when the signals via brain nerves are transmitted right through the body making it work accordingly. Improper functioning in it can be a result of various causes, for every human who faces this problem, reasons differ respectively. Circulatory reasons, arsenic poisoning from drinking water, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, hormonal insufficiencies, side effects of drugs and neurological problems like stress, trauma, fear to perform good & depression are some of the few factors which can lead to the above mentioned problem. According to Massachusetts Male Aging Study, chances of full dysfunction increases from 5% in males nearing their 40s to 15% in males reaching in their 70s. In Netherlands, it has been found that erectile problems surface in 20% of men whose age ranges from 50yrs to 54 yrs and in 50% people aging from 70 yrs to 78 yrs. More than 30 million people get affected by it in the United States which shows the rise in such an alarming situation.
Some of the common risk factors are advanced age, cardiovascular diseases, high cholesterol level, heavy cigarette smoking, diabetes mellitus, recreational drugs and other psychological hindrances. An ability to maintain a penile erection requires a healthy & sound nervous system, healthy arteries in and near corpora cavernosa, smooth muscles & fibrous tissues in corpora cavernosa and abundant levels of nitric oxide. In the old aged, high blood pressure, angina and heart attacks are some of the common diseases which can be the major causes of impotence. Poor flow of nitric oxide into the reproductive organ also can be a crucial reason for it. Diabetes mellitus damages sensory & automatic nerves which is also known as diabetic neuropathy. Obesity, poor control on blood glucose levels, problems in the corpora cavernosa represents the problem of impotence. Hypertension and arteriosclerosis increase the risk of impotence to greater levels. The former one leads to a low production of nitric oxide within the body leading to this problem. High blood pressure accelerates arteriosclerosis which also results in the same problem. Cigarette smoking increases the risk of arteriosclerosis which in turn damages the arteries and veins to a great extent. The problem of impotence can also persist if the flow of blood into the reproductive organ is insufficient. Damage to the nerve or spinal cord can lead to erectile dysfunction. Nerve damage can happen due to any kind of surgery, accident, disease or trauma. Substance abuse through drugs like marijuana, heroin, cocaine and methamphetamines can lead to nerve damage and shrinking of the testicles as well. Low testosterone levels, wrong medications and depression also become some of the most critical factors in the problem of impotence.
The treatment for impotence is time consuming but leads to fruitful results in most of the cases. Life style changes like quitting smoking and exercising can be quite beneficial, taking the right drugs as prescribed by a doctor, getting intracavernosal injections and penile prostheses are some of the most important treatments which can help in the long run. Lastly, it is very important to remember that a body can only to a certain extent take any kind of damage, beyond which it becomes irreparable. Therefore, everyone should take good care of themselves at every stage of life to lead a smooth and happy living.