Erectile dysfunction: what it is and why it happens
Erectile dysfunction (ED) means having trouble getting or keeping an erection firm enough for sex. Research suggests 30 to 50 million men in the United States have it. It becomes more common with age, but it is not something you just have to live with.
Signs of ED
- Trouble getting an erection some or most of the time
- Trouble keeping an erection long enough for sex
- Erections that are less firm than they used to be
- Less interest in sex, which can happen alongside ED
Having trouble once in a while is normal. If it happens often, or for more than a few weeks, it’s worth talking to a provider.
Common causes
An erection needs healthy blood vessels, nerves, hormones, and a clear head. A problem with any of these can cause ED, and many men have more than one cause.
- Blood vessel problems: heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking
- Diabetes: high blood sugar can damage blood vessels and nerves
- Hormones: low testosterone or thyroid problems
- Medications: some blood pressure drugs, antidepressants, and others
- Surgery or injury: including prostate cancer treatment
- Stress, anxiety, or depression
- Alcohol, drug use, and poor sleep
Never stop a prescribed medication on your own. If you think a medicine is affecting erections, ask your doctor about alternatives.
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Common questions
At what age does ED usually start?
ED can happen at any adult age, but it becomes more common as men get older. Federal research data show about 40% of men are affected at age 40, and about 70% report ED by age 70.
Is ED reversible?
Often it can improve, especially when the cause is found and treated, such as high blood pressure, high blood sugar, smoking, heavy drinking, poor sleep, or a medication side effect. Even when it doesn’t go away completely, most men find a treatment that works for them.
Can stress or anxiety cause ED?
Yes. Stress, anxiety, and depression can cause ED or make it worse, and they often show up alongside physical causes. Talking with a provider or counselor can help, and it works well alongside medical treatment.
Is it normal to have trouble getting an erection once in a while?
Yes, having trouble once in a while is normal and usually not a sign of a health problem. If it happens often, or keeps happening for more than a few weeks, it’s worth talking to a provider.
Can my medications cause ED?
Some medicines can, including certain blood pressure drugs and antidepressants. Never stop a prescribed medicine on your own; ask your doctor whether a different option might be easier on erections.
Ready for next steps? Read how to find ED care in New Orleans and Metairie, including what a good first visit looks like and the questions worth asking.
Not sure where to start? We list trusted places to get checked in Louisiana, from community health centers to men’s health clinics. See where to get care.
Why it’s worth bringing up
ED can be an early sign of heart disease or diabetes. A checkup can find problems early, and treating ED often improves confidence, relationships, and quality of life. Read about ED and your heart.
What helps
Healthy habits help: moving more, quitting smoking, drinking less, sleeping well, and keeping blood pressure and blood sugar in range. Most men also have effective treatment options, starting with pills that work well for many men. See all treatment options.
Sources
Where to get care
Any of these is a good next step. Pick the one that fits you.
- Aspire Health and Wellness†. A men’s health clinic in Metairie specializing in erectile dysfunction and weight loss, with free private visits and a range of treatment options. Visit aspireneworleans.com.
- Your primary care doctor. A good first stop. They can check your heart, blood sugar, and hormone levels.
- A urologist. A doctor who specializes in men’s urologic and sexual health.
- A community health center. Fees are based on income, with or without insurance. Find a community health center.
- Louisiana Medicaid. If you qualify, it covers doctor visits and prescriptions. See if you qualify.
- Veterans. Southeast Louisiana VA Health Care offers men’s health care for enrolled veterans.
† Affiliated with Aspire Community Care. We’re a nonprofit and don’t provide medical care; choose any provider that fits you.
Not sure where to start? Tell us what’s going on and we’ll help you find a next step. What you share stays private.
Keep reading
ED and Your Heart
Why erectile dysfunction can be an early warning sign of heart disease.
ED Treatment Options
Pills, injections, devices, and newer options, explained plainly.
Talking to Your Doctor
What to say, what to expect, and a short checklist.