What interferes with blood flow to the penis?
Atherosclerosis (or hardening of the arteries) and/or high blood pressure are often to blame in many cases of impotence. Hardening of the arteries happens as people age and certain forms of it can be hereditary. It is also often related to high blood pressure, unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, and lifestyle choices. Diets high in fatty foods, a sedentary lifestyle, and obesity can all contribute to this condition. A leading cause of impotence is penile arterial insufficiency – meaning not enough blood flows to the inner areas of the penis, which is necessary to produce and sustain an erection. Excessive cigarette smoking, especially over a long period of time, can cause arterial blockage and wreak havoc with the small blood vessels running through the penis. There also can be a “leakage” problem, in which the penis cannot trap the blood required to cause an erection. Impotence can be an early sign of underlying heart and/or blood vessel disease.
