The term erectile dysfunction covers a range of disorders, including curvature of the penis during erection (Peyronie's disease), prolonged painful erection not associated with sexual desire (Priapism) and premature ejaculation. But typically, Erectile dysfunction (ED), also called impotence, is defined as man's inability to have an erection hard enough to have sex or to keep an erection long enough to finish having sex.

Erectile dysfunction affects the lives of 20 million to 30 million American men and their partners.

Although erectile dysfunction is more common in men over age 65, it can occur at any age. Still, it's important to realize that an occasional episode of erectile dysfunction happens to most men and is perfectly normal. In fact, in most cases it's nothing to worry about. As men age, it's also normal for them to experience changes in erectile function. Erections may take longer to develop, may not be as rigid or may require more direct stimulation to be achieved. Men may also notice that orgasms are less intense, the volume of ejaculations is reduced and recovery time increases between erections.

When erectile dysfunction proves to be a pattern or a persistent problem, however, it can harm a man's self-image as well as his sexual life. It can also be a sign of a physical or emotional problem that requires treatment. Erectile dysfunction was once a taboo subject. But attitudes are changing. More men are seeking help for the problem, and doctors are gaining a better understanding of what causes erectile dysfunction and are finding new and better ways to treat it.

Signs & Symptoms

Causes

Risk Factors

A wide variety of physical and emotional risk factors can contribute to erectile dysfunction.
They include:

Physical diseases and disorders:

Chronic diseases of the lungs, liver, kidneys, heart, nerves, arteries or veins can lead to impotence. So can endocrine system disorders, particularly diabetes. The accumulation of deposits (plaques) in your arteries (atherosclerosis) also can prevent adequate blood from entering the penis. And in some men, erectile dysfunction may be caused by low levels of the hormone testosterone (male hypogonadism).

Surgery or trauma:

Erectile dysfunction may result from an injury to the pelvic area or spinal cord. Surgery to treat bladder, rectal or prostate cancer also can result in erectile dysfunction. Prolonged bicycle riding can cause a temporary problem.

Medications:

A wide range of drugs - including antidepressants, antihistamines and medications to treat high blood pressure, pain and prostate cancer - can cause erectile dysfunction by interfering with nerve impulses or blood flow to the penis. Tranquilizers and sleeping aids also may pose a problem.

Substance abuse:

Chronic use of alcohol, marijuana or other drugs often causes erectile dysfunction and decreased sexual drive. Excessive tobacco use also can damage penile arteries.

Stress, anxiety or depression:

Psychological causes account for about 10 percent to 15 percent of erectile dysfunction cases.

When to seek medical advice

Screening & Diagnosis

Treatment

Prevention

Coping Skills