> ## Knowledge Base Index
> Fetch the complete knowledge base index at: https://help.contro.co.za/sitemap.xml
> Use this file to discover available pages before exploring further.
> Pure-Markdown content can be obtained by appending a '.md' suffix to the content URLs listed in the sitemap (without the trailing slash).

# What causes erectile dysfunction?

Sexual arousal is a complex process that involves the brain, hormones, emotions, nerves, muscles and blood vessels. Erectile dysfunction can be caused by an issue with any of these. Mental health concerns can also cause or worsen erectile dysfunction.

Typical male ED is often associated with the following risk factors:

* Obesity
* Smoking
* Diabetes 
* Hypertension
* Dyslipidemia
* Cardiovascular disease
* Use of certain medications, including antidepressants, especially the SSRIs class, spironolactone, thiazide diuretics, sympathetic blockers (e.g. clonidine, guanethidine, or methyldopa), ketoconazole and cimetidine
* Psychosocial factors such as depression and stress

| During your Zapmed consultation with your assigned Partner Doctor, you can ask any questions you may have about erectile dysfunction treatment!
|| Zapmed does not provide medical advice. All the above information has been verified and checked by our Partner Doctors.