Overview
Erectile dysfunction, or ED, is when a man has difficulty getting or maintaining an erection that is firm enough for sex. It is very common for a man to have problems with erections from time to time, but ED that comes on slowly over time or regularly with sex is not normal and should be treated.
ED can result from health problems, emotional issues, or from both. Finding the cause of your ED will help treat the problem.
Known risk factors for ED are:
- Injury to the pelvis
- Surgery from cancers of the prostate, colon, rectum, or bladder
- Heart disease
- Peripheral artery disease
- High blood pressure
- High blood sugar
- Alcohol use
- Drug use
- Smoking or vaping
- Some medicines
- Emotion stress from depression, anxiety or relationship problems
Consult your urologist if you are experiencing any of these symptoms:
- Getting an erection, but it not lasting long enough for sex
- Getting an erection, but not when you want to have sex
- Not being able to get an erection at all
