Erectile dysfunction, also known as ED, is one of the most common problems in men. The research study shows that it affects almost 30 million men. It is a condition in which men are unable to maintain an erection sufficient for sexual activity. ED is also sometimes called impotence.
Men can have problems with erection from time to time, but during ED, they continuously face the problem with erection. Unlike temporary visitors who come and go, erectile dysfunction has a way of sticking around. And unfortunately, the longer it stays, the more challenging it becomes to manage.
ED can be caused by emotional issues, health problems, and growing age. In this blog, we will explain in detail the common causes and the treatment for erectile dysfunction in Cape Town, South Africa.
Table of Contents
Common Causes of Erectile Dysfunction
Some of the common causes of erectile dysfunction are explained below:
1. Age
Age is one of the common causes of erectile dysfunction. The research data suggest that when a man reaches his 40s, there is a 40% chance that he will suffer from one or other form of ED. Not only this, but the chances of ED increase by 10% with each decade.
2. Problem with the Vascular System of the Penis
Erectile dysfunction can also be caused due to problems with the vascular system of the penis. This vascular problem is not caused by blocked arteries. It happens because the smooth muscle cells (SMCs) in the penis are damaged or lost.
These cells help trap blood in the penis during an erection. As we age, these cells slowly break down and disappear. When about 15% of them are gone, the tissue can no longer hold blood properly. This causes blood to leak out too soon, making it hard to keep an erection.
3. High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure also sometimes causes erectile dysfunction. High blood pressure can damage blood vessels over time. This makes it harder for enough blood to flow to the penis. Since erections need strong blood flow, poor circulation can lead to erectile dysfunction (ED). Also, some blood pressure medicines can lower sex drive or make it harder to get an erection. So both the condition and its treatment can contribute to ED.
4. High Body Fat
The extra weight, specifically around the waist, can also sometimes become responsible for ED. The research data suggest that these extra fats around the abdominal region are associated with health problems like cardiovascular issues and type 2 diabetes.
Moreover, it can also be responsible for lowering testosterone levels in men. The low testosterone levels also cause ED.
5. Heart Diseases and ED
Erections need healthy blood flow. Heart disease can narrow or block blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the penis. This makes it harder to get or keep an erection. In many cases, ED is an early warning sign of heart problems. Both conditions often share risk factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and smoking.
6. Tobacco use
Smoking and using tobacco harm blood vessels. It reduces blood flow all over the body, including to the penis. Without enough blood, getting or keeping an erection becomes difficult. Tobacco also lowers nitric oxide, a chemical that helps with erections. Over time, smoking increases the risk of permanent erectile dysfunction.
7. Parkinson’s Disease and ED
Parkinson’s disease is a medical condition that affects brain activity, such as production of dopamine. The imbalance in the production of dopamine levels can affect a person’s libido and sexual activities.
Sexual function depends on both the movement and automatic control systems in our body. In people with Parkinson’s, the drop in dopamine levels affects these systems, which can lead to sexual problems.
9. Peyronie’s Disease and ED
Peyronie’s disease causes scar tissue to form inside the penis. This can make the penis bend or curve during an erection. The curve can be painful and may make sex difficult or impossible. Because of this, many men with Peyronie’s also have trouble getting or keeping an erection (ED). The condition can affect both confidence and sexual function.
10. Multiple Sclerosis and ED
Multiple sclerosis (MS) affects the brain and spinal cord, interfering with nerve signals. Since erections rely on proper nerve function, MS can make it difficult to get or keep an erection. MS can also lower sexual desire and cause problems with arousal. Some medications used to treat MS can also contribute to erectile dysfunction.
Erectile Dysfunction Treatment in Cape Town
In Africa, about 11½ million men are affected by erectile dysfunction (ED). In South Africa, a study in KwaZulu-Natal found that 64.9% of men aged 18 and older have some form of ED. Among them, 14.6% had mild ED, 19.9% had moderate ED, and 30.4% had severe ED.
If you are living in Cape Town, South Africa, and suffering from erectile dysfunction, visit or book an online consultation at Prime Health Centre with our ED doctors. Erectile dysfunction is a sensitive process, and we make sure to keep the data of each patient private.
Don’t wait till the problem becomes more severe, book your consultation now!
Common Foods for ED Treatment
Common foods for ED treatment include:
- Watermelon
- Oysters
- Coffee
- Dark Chocolate
- Garlic
How to mentally stop erectile dysfunction?
To mentally manage erectile dysfunction, try reducing stress through relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation. Talking openly with your partner and focusing on positive thoughts can also help improve your confidence and reduce anxiety.
What is the fastest way to cure erectile dysfunction?
The fastest way to address erectile dysfunction (ED) depends on its cause. It typically requires a mix of lifestyle adjustments, counseling, and possibly medication or other medical treatments. A doctor’s evaluation is essential to identify the most effective treatment for each person.
Final Thoughts
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition that can be caused by various factors, including age, health problems, and lifestyle choices. While it can be challenging, understanding the causes and seeking treatment is the first step toward improvement. If you are in Cape Town and dealing with ED, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional who can offer the right guidance and treatment options.
