ED Basics for Men: A Complete Guide
Everything you need to know about erectile dysfunction, from understanding the condition to exploring treatment options and taking the first steps toward better sexual health.
Quick Facts About ED
Very Common
Affects over 30 million men in the US alone
Highly Treatable
95% of cases can be successfully treated
Not Just Aging
Can affect men of all ages, not just older men
Health Indicator
Often signals other health conditions
Understanding Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to get or maintain an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. It's important to understand that occasional difficulty with erections is normal and doesn't necessarily indicate ED. The condition is typically diagnosed when problems persist for several weeks or months.
When Is It Considered ED?
- • Consistently unable to get an erection
- • Can get an erection but can't maintain it during sex
- • Erections are not firm enough for penetration
- • Problems occur more than 50% of the time
- • Issues persist for 3 months or longer
Types of Erectile Dysfunction
Physical (Organic) ED
Caused by physical problems affecting blood flow, nerves, or hormones. This is the most common type, accounting for about 70% of ED cases.
Common Causes:
- • Heart disease and blood vessel problems
- • Diabetes
- • High blood pressure
- • High cholesterol
- • Obesity
- • Low testosterone
- • Certain medications
Psychological ED
Caused by mental or emotional factors. More common in younger men and often develops suddenly. Can occur alongside physical causes.
Common Causes:
- • Stress and anxiety
- • Depression
- • Relationship problems
- • Performance anxiety
- • Past sexual trauma
- • Low self-esteem
- • Work or financial stress
Warning Signs & Symptoms
Recognize These Signs
Physical Symptoms
- • Difficulty getting an erection
- • Trouble maintaining an erection
- • Reduced sexual desire
- • Softer erections than usual
- • Shorter-lasting erections
Emotional Impact
- • Anxiety about sexual performance
- • Loss of confidence
- • Relationship stress
- • Avoidance of intimacy
- • Depression or mood changes
When to See a Doctor
Seek Medical Help If:
- • ED symptoms persist for more than a few weeks
- • You're concerned about your erections
- • ED is causing stress or relationship problems
- • You have other symptoms like decreased libido
- • You have diabetes, heart disease, or other health conditions
- • You're taking medications that might cause ED
- • You experience premature ejaculation along with ED
- • You want to discuss treatment options
Treatment Options Overview
Lifestyle Changes
- • Regular exercise
- • Healthy diet
- • Weight management
- • Quit smoking
- • Limit alcohol
- • Stress management
Medications
- • Viagra (Sildenafil)
- • Cialis (Tadalafil)
- • Levitra (Vardenafil)
- • Stendra (Avanafil)
- • Testosterone therapy
- • Injections
Other Treatments
- • Vacuum devices
- • Penile implants
- • Counseling/therapy
- • Shock wave therapy
- • Acupuncture
- • Herbal supplements
Your Next Steps
Understanding ED is the first step toward effective treatment. Remember, ED is a medical condition, not a personal failure, and help is available.