Sexual dysfunction with aging and systemic hypertension.

The incidence of sexual dysfunction increases with age and in the presence of systemic hypertension. An interplay between endocrine, neurologic and vascular systems mediates normal male sexual function. Androgens primarily regulate libido and maintenance of genital tissue, while the autonomic nervous system and arterial blood flow play key roles in the physiology of the male sexual response, particularly penile erection. Vascular disease related to hypertension, diabetes mellitus and atherosclerosis may be the main factor contributing to the sexual dysfunction that occurs with aging. Hormonal alterations probably play less of a role. The importance of neurologic abnormalities remains to be determined. Although specific diagnostic testing can be useful in defining abnormalities in each of these systems, treatment of sexual dysfunction in the setting of hypertension in the elderly patient remains a challenge.