Definition of Erectile Dysfunction Syndrome: Erectile dysfunction Syndrome (EDS), also called impotence, is characterized by a man’s inability to have a normal erection hard enough and lasting to have sex or to keep a regular erection long enough and satisfying to finish having sexual intercourse.

Description of Erectile Dysfunction Syndrome: The normal physiology of erection involves a complex series of events. The male penis contains 2 cylinders of sponge a like structure that run along its shaft, transversal to the urethra. When male sexual arousal occurs at any time, blood flows into this tissue with more density. As the tissue fills with the extra blood, it stiffens to create an erection. A male erection is kept by continued increased blood flow to this section. Once ejaculation occurs, or after sexual excitation stops, the blood flow decreases, and the sponge-like tissue empties and softens to the non-erect state. The nervous system responds to arousal by releasing chemicals, such as nitric oxide, into the penile blood to cause the blood vessels that carry blood to the penis to enlarge, increasing blood flow to the sponge-like cylinders, and forming an erection. Any interruption along this pathway may result in erectile dysfunction Syndrome

Risks and Factors: Erectile dysfunction Syndrome can be caused by psychological or physical factors. This is commonly due to anxiety, stress, depression, excess fatigue or dissatisfaction with the relationship with the partner. Physical causes can include any disorder that prevents the nervous system or vascular system from responding appropriately to arousal. Hormonal problems, kidney disease, liver disease, excessive alcohol ingestion, and infections can also cause EDS.