https://www.webmd.com/erectile-dysfunction/guide/vascular-disease-ed?ecd=wnl_men_032521&ctr=wnl-men-032521&mb=Hi15rNsN6zyP3vtqBis4HuHnVev1imbCKywgCqzzFR4%3D_Support_titleLink_3
Usually, a vascular disease happens when cholesterol and other substances build up and block blood vessels. In some men, the arteries and veins in the penis, and the rest of the body, may not work properly. They may keep blood from flowing when they’re not supposed to.
Some common health conditions are linked with vascular disease and clogged arteries:
- Coronary artery disease (clogged arteries in the heart)
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol
- Obesity
- Peripheral vascular disease, which affects the blood vessels that send blood to the arms, hands, legs, and feet
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If you have one of these conditions, it’s more likely that the problem can affect the blood vessels in your penis and cause erectile dysfunction.
Also, smoking greatly raises your chances for clogged arteries and vascular disease. If you have erectile dysfunction, it helps to kick the habit.
What Is a Venous Leak?
Your penis must store blood to keep an erection. If the veins can’t keep blood there during an erection, you’ll lose it. This is called venous leak. It may happen with vascular disease.
It’s also linked to diabetes, Peyronie’s disease (a buildup of scar tissue in the penis that leads to curved, painful erections), some nerve conditions, and even severe anxiety.
