Erectile dysfunction is the inability to achieve and maintain an erection firm enough for sex. If you are having problems achieving or sustaining an erection occasionally, it should not be a cause for worry. However, experiencing erectile dysfunction for a long period has the potential of creating stress, depression and low self-esteem, affecting your sex life, self-confidence and contributing to relationship problems.

Erection trouble also can be a sign of an underlying condition that needs treatment and a risk factor for heart disease.

If you have concerns about erectile dysfunction, have a frank discussion with the doctor.

Symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction

The main symptom of erectile dysfunction is the inability to get or maintain an erection. In most of the cases, this condition is temporary. However, persistent erectile dysfunction can have a negative effect on sex life. This happens when a man is unable to sustain an erection long enough to continue sexual intercourse. He may experience reduced sexual desire. Psychological symptoms may occur if a man feels he is not satisfying his partner. These symptoms include low self-esteem and depression. These can cause erectile dysfunction to become worse.

Causes of Erectile Dysfunction

There can be many contributing factors for erectile dysfunction. These include both psychological and physical causes. The risk of erectile dysfunction increases with age but age does not cause it.

Although erectile dysfunction can affect younger men, it more common in middle-aged and older adult men.

Physical causes of erectile dysfunction include:

• Heart disease
• High cholesterol
• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Thyroid problems
• Obesity
• Multiple sclerosis
• Parkinson’s disease
• Alcoholism
• Tobacco use
• Sleep disorders
• Treatments for prostate cancer or enlarged prostate
• Pelvic or spinal cord trauma or surgery
• Certain prescription medications, including antidepressants and diuretics

Psychological causes of erectile dysfunction

These include:

• Depression, anxiety or other mental health conditions
• Stress
• Relationship problems due to stress, poor communication or other concerns