Though many sufferers do not discuss the problem openly, more than twenty million American men suffer with erectile dysfunction - and most of them suffer with the condition long-term.
It is known that men suffering with erectile dysfunction are more likely to be overweight, smoke tobacco, drink alcohol, use recreational drugs and have a diet low in vitamins and minerals and high in fats and sugars. Lack of gentle exercise has also been linked to impotence.
The most common causes of impotence are diseases of the nerves and blood flow, stress and anxiety. Prescription drugs which affect blood flow, testosterone levels or nerves can also include erectile dysfunction as a side-effect.
Although almost three quarters of men over the age of 70 suffer with erectile dysfunction, the inability to achieve or maintain an erection is not considered a normal consequence of aging, and treatment is given as freely as it would be to a younger man.
Men suffering with erectile dysfunction can visit their GP, and are often referred to a Urologist - a medical professional specializing in conditions of the urinary systems. An examination will attempt to isolate whether the condition is caused by an underlying medical problem, stress and anxiety or any prescription medication that the patient is currently using. Once the cause has been ascertained, a course of treatment will be decided and prescribed.
Common treatments for erectile dysfunction include PDE5 Inhibitors such as Levitra and other oral medications, intercavernous injection therapy and intraurethral therapy. In rare, extreme cases, surgery and implants may be considered.