Possible causes of Impotence

* Diseases such as diabetes mellitus, an endocrine gland disorder, kidney disease, multiple sclerosis etc.

* Problems with the structure of the penis or its surrounding tissues may prevent an erection.

* Damage to arteries, smooth muscles and fibrous tissues, often as a result of disease, surgery or injury that interfere with nerve impulses or blood flow to the penis.

* Psychological or emotional factors like stress, anxiety, grief or problems with relationships.

* Excess consumption of alcohol or drug abuse.

* Obesity and smoking which affects blood flow and arteries.

* As a side effect of some prescription drugs like high blood pressure drugs, antihistamines, antidepressants, tranquilizers, appetite suppressants, cimetidine, an ulcer drug etc.

* In older men over 65 years, impotence can be caused by low levels of testosterone, a condition which can be corrected by Hormone replacement therapy.