Causes of male impotence
Although psychological factors certainly affect male sexual function, recent studies show that most cases of impotence are due to an underlying disease or lifestyle factors. Diabetes, atherosclerosis, paralysis, or, less commonly, hormonal imbalances are among the organic causes of impotence. The use of a number of drugs— including alcohol, nicotine, illegal substances, as well as prescription medications—can lead to impotence. Nicotine impedes the blood flow by constricting the small arteries, including those that bring blood to the penis. Medications that commonly cause impotence include antihypertensives, acid-suppressants for ulcers, antidepressants, and sleeping pills. In most cases, an alternative drug can be prescribed. While diet does not have much of an effect on impotence, medications can help. The most popular drug is sildenafil citrate (Viagra), which boosts the activity of an enzyme, cyclic guano- sine monophosphate (cGMP), which is the key to having an erection.
