Types, causes and symptoms
 
Although approximately one in ten men experience erection problems at some stage during their life, there are many myths and misunderstandings about this condition. Being informed is the first step towards dealing with this condition.  
 
Symptoms of erection problems 
Simply put, erection problems are difficulties getting erections or the inability to sustain them. Both can really affect your self-confidence and your sex life.  
 
Causes of erection problems 
Erection problems can develop for a number of different reasons – every man is different.  
 
They may be the result of another condition. For example, diseases affecting the blood flow, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol or diabetes can all make it harder to reach or keep an erection. Diseases affecting the nerves can also play a role – as can injuries to the spinal column or pelvis and surgery in the pelvic area – for example, for prostate cancer. 
 
Certain medicines can also make it harder to achieve and maintain an erection. These include some heart disease and high blood pressure tablets, antidepressants, tranquilisers, cancer treatments and certain ulcer drugs.  
 
Erection problems can also be caused by smoking, alcohol or drug abuse or by mental anxiety. Stress can negatively affect relationships with your partner and this in turn, can often make erection problems worse.  
 
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