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News » Erectile dysfunction may be influenced by psychological and/or physical factors

Erectile dysfunction may be influenced by psychological and/or physical factors

A study involving 1,000 older men has determined to what degree physical and psychological factors influence erectile dysfunction. It was found that physical factors such as heart disease and medications were the most significant across all age groups. In middle-aged men, psychological factors (such as stress, depression, anxiety) play an important role as well. In older men psychological factors involving relationships were important which is probably due to changes in their own or their partner's sexual needs. In order to provide the most effective treatment it is important to determine whether psychological or physical factors are more dominant. Dominance of physical factors would most likely be benefited by medication whereas therapy and counseling may be more useful for those where psychological factors are involved. Combination therapy may also be beneficial for many.

Source: summary of medical news story as reported by International Journal of Impotence