An Overview of Impotence
Impotence, also known as “erectile dysfunction,” is the recurring inability for a man to get or keep an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. Erectile dysfunction has varying degrees; some men may be able to sustain an erection for a brief amount of time then lose it altogether, while others experience a total inability to achieve an erection at all. There are many factors associated with why impotence may exist including an interruption of nerve impulses from the brain, psychological factors (stress), damage to nerves and arteries resulting from a disease, lifestyle choices (smoking, obesity) and a myriad of other causes. The good news for most men is that erectile dysfunction is totally treatable. Some men choose psychotherapy that helps to decrease the level of anxiety associated with intercourse, while others will choose one of several successful drugs (such as Levitra®) that are on the market today.