by Polsdorfer R

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.

It is possible to develop erectile dysfunction with or without the risk factors listed below. However, the more risk factors you have, the greater your chance of developing erectile dysfunction. If you have a number of risk factors, ask your doctor what you can do to reduce your risk.

Risk factors include:

The incidence of erectile dysfunction rises with age, with about 5% at age 40, to 15%-25% at age 65 and older.

Certain medical conditions can increase your risk of erectile dysfunction, including:

Trauma, whether through an accident or surgery, can increase your risk of erectile dysfunction. Trauma may result from:

Certain behaviors can increase your risk of erectile dysfunction, including:

Certain medications can increase your risk of erectile dysfunction, including:

  • Those to treat high blood pressure
  • Antihistamines
  • Antidepressants
  • Tranquilizers
  • Antipsychotics
  • Histamine blockers
  • Nicotine

If you suspect a medication may be affecting your sexual functioning, talk with your doctor. Do not stop taking a medication without talking to your doctor first.

References

Definition & facts for erectile dysfunction. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases website. Available at: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/urologic-diseases/erectile-dysfunction/definition-facts. Accessed January 29, 2021.

Erectile dysfunction. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at:  http://www.dynamed.com/topics/dmp~AN~T113875/Erectile-dysfunction  . Accessed January 29, 2021.

Rew KT, Heidelbaugh JJ. Erectile dysfunction. Am Fam Physician. 2016;94(10):820-827.

What is erectile dysfunction? Urology Care Foundation website. Available at: http://www.urologyhealth.org/urologic-conditions/erectile-dysfunction. Accessed January 29, 2021.

Revision Information

  • Reviewer: EBSCO Medical Review Board Adrienne Carmack, MD
  • Review Date: 03/2020
  • Update Date: 01/29/2021