What is erectile dysfunction?

What is erectile dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) or impotence, is a condition that describes the inability for a penis to gain or maintain stiffness (erection) long enough to have sexual intercourse for a sustained period of time.

ED can have a range of causes, both physical and psychological. Possible physical causes include: heart disease

• Diabetes
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Hormonal problems

Sometimes psychological factors can contribute to ED as well. Possible psychological causes of ED include:

• Stress
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Relationship problems

Prognosis

Many men will experience episodes of ED that improve without the need for treatment. Sometimes, persistent ED can be the result of a more serious underlying health condition, such as heart disease. In such cases, treatment will be needed to treat the underlying condition.

Other causes include head injury, which can result in low levels of production of the hormone testosterone. Treatment of testosterone can treat ED when it is caused by head injury.

Generally, the prognosis for ED is good. Some men will just need to make some lifestyle changes, such as losing weight and taking regular exercise. Other men may need to take medication such as sildenafil (known as Viagra).