Types of erection and impotence problems
A gradual erection or impotence problem
Men with conditions such as heart disease, hypertension (high blood pressure) or atherosclerosis (narrow arteries) may notice a slow but continuing change in being able to achieve or maintain an erection. The same process, which can cause heart disease and other linked conditions, also affects the penis. When arteries in the general circulation become narrowed, this restricts blood flow to the heart and can cause heart disease. When arteries in the penis become narrowed, blood flow to the penis is restricted, which is necessary for an erection.
In general, morning and night-time erections, without any form of sexual encouragement, are a sign of everything working normally. With a 'gradual' type of erection problem, it is common for natural morning and night-time erections to become increasingly uncommon.
A sudden erection or impotence problem
Men with erection problems of a more emotional cause can pinpoint the very first time it happened. It may be linked to a particular event (or run of events) in their life - such as being made redundant, a divorce, bereavement or an operation. Morning and night-time erections usually still occur unless the cause is an operation, and the problem may only happen sometimes.
An occasional erection or impotence problem
Very few men go through life without now and then having a problem with erections. Drinking too much alcohol, stress, anxiety or loss of confidence, can be the cause of an occasional problem. A poor lifestyle including unhealthy eating, smoking, recreational drug use and lack of exercise are also common causes of erection problems and you can find out more about the other factors that can be involved. If you think you may be experiencing erection problems, try our self-assessment, which can help in preparing you for visiting your doctor.