Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual intercourse. ED, or “impotence”, is a common problem for men of all ages.
- The majority of causes of erectile dysfunction are physical in nature.
- The prevalence of erectile dysfunction increases with age.
- While 39% of men at the age of 40 are affected by ED, 67% of men at the age of 70 are affected.
Do you experience any of these symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction?
- Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection (occurs at least 1 in 4 times of attempting intercourse, or persists for a month.)
- Achieving an erection takes longer than usual or is more difficult in certain positions.
- Sexual erection has become weaker or less rigid.
- Maintaining an erection becoming a conscious effort or becoming more and more difficult.
- Morning erections becoming less frequent or less rigid.
- Climaxing or ejaculating more rapidly or with an incomplete erection.
When to Call Your Doctor
If you have any concerns about erectile dysfunction, you should call your doctor. ED is linked with depression and anxiety. Visiting your doctor can dispel misinformation which often exacerbates sexual problems. In some cases, short course medication can alleviate temporary symptoms of erectile dysfunction.
If you suffer from persistent erectile dysfunction (one month or more), then you should definitely call a doctor. The physical symptoms of ED can be early warning signs for other health problems such as artery disease or diabetes.