What Are Symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction is a sexual disorder that is most common among older men. Nearly 80 percent of all men over the age of 75 are affected by this condition. Erectile dysfunction can be successfully treated.

Definition

• Erectile dysfunction is a condition in which a man is regularly unable to maintain an erection long enough to engage in sexual intercourse.

Causes

• Erectile dysfunction occurs when a physical or psychological condition interferes with the flow of blood to the penis that is necessary for a man to have an erection.

Risk Factors

• Diseases affecting the heart, liver, kidneys and arteries increase a man's risk for erectile dysfunction. Drug abuse, surgery, obesity, stress, riding bicycles and smoking are also risk factors.

Prevention

• Men may reduce their chances of developing erectile dysfunction by exercising regularly, reducing stress and anxiety, by not smoking and avoiding alcohol and drugs.

Treatments

• There are various options available to treat erectile dysfunction including medication, hormone replacement therapy, vascular surgery, counseling, penile implants or penis pumps.