Blood vessels and erection problems
Content provided by Healthwise
Blood vessels and erection problems
Because an erection is caused by the penis filling with blood, problems with the blood vessels may result in erection problems (erectile dysfunction). These problems include:
- Hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis) in the penile arteries, which may block blood flow into the penis or into the arteries that fill the penile arteries.
- Side effects of medications that affect the blood vessels (such as some diuretics or other high blood pressure medications), which may interfere with the filling process.
- Leaking of blood from the spongy chambers (corpora cavernosa) in the penis to the veins that carry blood from the penis. This may lead to the inability to maintain an erection.
Credits
| Author | Monica Rhodes |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Associate Editor | Michele Cronen |
| Associate Editor | Tracy Landauer |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman, MATC |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Christopher G. Wood, MD, FACS - Urology/Oncology |
| Last Updated | May 21, 2008 |
| Last updated: | May 21, 2008 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Monica Rhodes |
| Reviewed By: | E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine, Christopher G. Wood, MD, FACS - Urology/Oncology |
| Editors: | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC |
© 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.
Search
Where Does it Hurt?
If you're experiencing aches and pains we can help you find answers. Find out what your symptoms mean for your health.
