Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common sexual health problem. Sometimes referred to as impotence, ED is the consistent inability to get or keep an erection that is sufficient for having sex.
This condition can have both physical and psychological causes, and while it is more common in those over 50, it can happen at any age. The most common symptom of erectile dysfunction is being unable to regularly achieve an erection. This may happen every time you try to have sex, or it may only happen sometimes. You may be able to get an erection but not keep it during sexual activity, or you may only be able to maintain a partial erection.
Regardless of your situation, our urology team can uncover the cause of your symptoms and recommend a treatment plan that supports your sexual functioning.
Risk factors for erectile dysfunction
Common risk factors for ED include:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Complications from bladder or prostate surgery or radiation
- Diabetes — people with diabetes are up to three times more likely to develop ED
- Substance use
- High blood pressure
- Injury to the bladder, pelvis, penis, prostate or spinal cord
- Kidney disease
- Multiple sclerosis
- Obesity
- Peyronie’s disease
- Prostate cancer
- Psychological conditions, such as depression or anxiety
- Certain medications
Diagnosing and treating erectile dysfunction
To diagnose ED, your doctor or other health care provider will review your medical history, perform a physical exam and may request a combination of tests, such as:
- Doppler ultrasound, a test that evaluates blood flow in the penis
- Nocturnal erection test, which measures the ability to get an erection during sleep
Your provider may also recommend an injection of medication that causes an erection, allowing them to evaluate the strength of your erection and how long it lasts.
We know that ED can be a sensitive topic. However, it is important to be honest about your symptoms and their severity to ensure you receive an accurate diagnosis and an effective treatment plan. Sometimes ED can be a sign of a more serious health condition.
Treatment for erectile dysfunction depends on the underlying cause. As part of your treatment plan, your provider may:
- Make adjustments to your existing medication regimen
- Recommend lifestyle changes such as losing weight or eliminating alcohol
- Recommend counseling if psychological causes are suspected
- Prescribe oral, injectable or suppository medications that can help you get or maintain an erection
- Prescribe testosterone therapy
For people who cannot take medications, a vacuum device, or “penis pump,” can help maintain an erection. In extreme cases, surgery may be required.