Types of impotence
The most important thing to remember, when dealing with erectile dysfunction, is that impotence advice and treatment should always be discussed with a competent physician. A specialist in male impotence problems is the number one source for relevant information.
Arteriogenic
In this type of impotence the arteries supplying blood to the penis do not bring in enough blood to cause an erection. This often occurs due to a narrowing of the arteries. This condition is common in the elderly, diabetics and those with high blood pressure. It is also very common in bicycle riders because sustained friction in that region causes a clot-like substance (thrombus) to develop in the artery. As the clot grows it ultimately blocks the artery completely.
Venogenic
This condition occurs when the veins of the penis leak blood and prevent the development of a rigid erection. Normally, the veins close down almost completely and little or no blood flows out from the penis. Thus blood accumulates, raising pressure and allowing for the development of hardness.
This condition accounts for over half of all impotence. Some men have venogenic impotence from birth and never have an rigid erection in their lives. Others develop the condition after years of normal sexuality.
Diabetic
Impotence is very common among diabetics and around half of all diabetics are impotent. Since the diabetic condition can never be reversed therapy for diabetes cannot restore erectile function.
Neurogenic
The nerve supply to the penis is delicate and a good conduction of impulses is basic for the initiation and maintenance of an erection. Many things can interfere with the nerve supply to the penis, including injuries to the back and pelvic or perinial trauma. Also, operations on the rectum, prostate, urethra, spine, and urinary bladder can cause incidental injury to the nerves of the penis.
Psychogenic
This type of impotence occurs when the problem is purely psychological.
Hormonal
This condition occurs when there is an imbalance of testosterone and estrogen in the blood. Accounting for about 5 per cent of all impotence, this condition affects the libido rather than the quality of the erection.
