Erectile dysfunction (ED), or the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual activity, is often thought of as a purely sexual problem. However, a growing body of medical evidence suggests that ED is not just about sexual intercourse, but can be an early indicator of a more serious, systemic health condition, particularly a life-threatening chronic disease.
What Is Erectile Dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction can be the body's first "alarm" signal to vascular dysfunction, hormonal disorders, neurological disorders, or even metabolic conditions such as diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Therefore, it is important not to ignore ED symptoms and to view them holistically as part of a general health evaluation, not just a personal problem to be covered up or dismissed as a consequence of aging.
Causes of Erectile Dysfunction You Need to Know
1. Impaired Blood Flow to the Penis
One of the main causes of erectile dysfunction is impaired blood flow to the penis, and this is closely related to the condition of atherosclerosis or narrowing of the blood vessels. Interestingly, the blood vessels in the penis are much smaller than the coronary arteries in the heart.
Therefore, when there is even a slight blockage, the penis can be the first organ to show symptoms, in the form of erectile dysfunction, even before a person experiences chest pain or a heart attack. In other words, erectile dysfunction can be an early symptom of coronary heart disease that has not been detected.
Studies show that men who experience erectile dysfunction have a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease within five years of the first symptoms appearing, especially if not treated promptly and medically evaluated.
2. Men with Diabetes Are Prone to Erectile Dysfunction
In addition to blood vessel problems, erectile dysfunction is also very common in men with diabetes. Diabetes causes damage to small blood vessels and nerves, both of which play a vital role in the erection process.
More than 50% of men with diabetes experience erectile dysfunction at some point in their lives, and it often appears several years earlier than in non-diabetic men.
Not only that, insulin resistance and chronic high blood sugar levels can also lower testosterone levels and disrupt hormonal balance, worsening sexual conditions and overall quality of life.
Therefore, when a man comes with complaints of erectile dysfunction, the doctor should also evaluate for the possibility of undiagnosed diabetes or pre-diabetes.
3. Hormonal Disorders
Other hormonal disorders such as hypogonadism (low testosterone) are also potential causes of erectile dysfunction. Testosterone plays a vital role in libido (sexual desire), sperm production, and overall male sexual function.
Decreased testosterone levels can be caused by age, obesity, unhealthy lifestyle, or certain medical conditions such as pituitary disorders or use of certain drugs. Likewise, chronic stress, anxiety disorders, and depression can also be the root of psychosomatic erectile dysfunction.
However, in clinical practice, erectile dysfunction due to psychological problems often worsens symptoms caused by physical factors, making this condition more complex if not treated holistically.
Health Check and Do a Complete Examination
However, many men still feel embarrassed or reluctant to talk about erectile dysfunction, either to their partners or medical personnel. In fact, openness and consultation with a doctor can pave the way for a proper diagnosis and effective treatment.
Erectile dysfunction therapy is currently very advanced, ranging from lifestyle changes, management of comorbidities, hormone therapy, to the use of oral medications. Even in some cases, medical interventions such as injections, vacuum devices, or penile implants can be effective and safe options.
Given the many medical factors that can cause erectile dysfunction, it is important to change the public's perspective on this condition. Erectile dysfunction is not just a bed issue or simply a result of work stress or old age. It can be an early sign of something bigger and more serious, such as heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, hormonal disorders, and even untreated mental conditions.
Therefore, when erectile dysfunction occurs, do not just look for an instant solution, but make it a motivation to do a comprehensive health evaluation. By understanding the body as a whole, we can not only restore sexual function, but also maintain quality of life and prevent complications of chronic diseases in the future.
Article written by dr. Faisal Abdi Matondang, Sp.U (Urology Surgery Specialist Doctor, EMC Pulomas Hospital).