Erectile dysfunction: causes, tests, and practical fixes
About half of men over 40 will face some degree of erectile dysfunction (ED). It’s not just an age thing — ED signals that something in your body or mind needs attention, and most cases are treatable. This page gives you clear steps: what causes ED, what tests a doctor may run, and practical treatments you can try now.
What causes ED and when to see a doctor
Common causes are blood flow problems, nerve damage, low testosterone, side effects from medicines, and stress or anxiety. Smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, and uncontrolled diabetes make ED more likely. If erections are suddenly worse, or you have chest pain or breathlessness during sexual activity, see a doctor right away. If ED lasts more than a few months and affects your quality of life, book a medical check-up.
At the clinic expect a brief medical history, a blood pressure check, and simple blood tests for blood sugar and testosterone. Your doctor may ask about medications — some antidepressants, blood pressure drugs, and prostate treatments can cause ED. In many cases, it’s also worth screening for heart disease because blood vessel problems that cause ED can affect the heart too.
Practical treatment options and next steps
Start with lifestyle moves that help both erections and overall health: lose excess weight, exercise regularly, quit smoking, limit heavy drinking, and improve sleep. These changes often improve erectile function within weeks to months.
Oral medications called PDE5 inhibitors are the most common medical option. Drugs like sildenafil and tadalafil increase blood flow to the penis and work for many men. They have side effects such as headache, flushing, or upset stomach. Never take these if you use nitrates for chest pain — the combination can dangerously lower blood pressure.
If pills aren’t a fit, other choices include vacuum erection devices (a simple pump that helps get and keep an erection), self-injections into the penis, or urethral suppositories. For long-term solutions, penile implants are an effective surgical option when other treatments fail. Psychological therapy or couples counseling can help when anxiety or relationship issues contribute to ED.
Be cautious with supplements marketed for ED. Many have unlisted drugs or unsafe ingredients. If you consider buying medication online, use a licensed pharmacy, check reviews, and confirm that a prescription is required. Our site has guides on buying meds safely and on specific treatments if you want more detail.
When you talk with a doctor, be honest about symptoms, other health problems, and your sexual goals. A clear, direct conversation gets faster answers and better treatment. Small steps often make the biggest difference — start with one lifestyle change and schedule a check-up.
Keep a short diary: note when you take medication, what you eat, alcohol use, stress, and how the erection responds. This record helps your doctor adjust treatment. Ask about timing and dosing — some pills work faster on an empty stomach, others need daily dosing. Report troubling side effects. Set follow-up appointments so you can fine‑tune treatment until it works for you. Be patient and persistent.
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- December 12 2023
- Tony Newman
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