Erectile dysfunction (ED) is relatively common – around 50% of men in their 50s have mild to moderate symptoms. However, it’s not a condition that you need to accept as part of aging.
If you’re having problems getting and/or keeping an erection, you might have symptoms of erectile dysfunction (ED). ED is defined as the persistent inability to achieve or maintain a penile erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance. ED can limit your intimacy, affect your self-esteem, and impact your most important relationships. Beyond the physical manifestations, ED can cause emotional distress and may impact your quality of life. The important thing to remember is that ED is more common than you may think, and you’re not alone. In fact, more than half of men over the age of 40 suffer from some degree of ED.
Diagnosis: If you cannot get an erection more than 50% of the time, it may be time to visit your doctor. A personal history and physical exam can help you and your doctor understand the underlying causes of your ED. Lab tests and other tests may identify a source such as diabetes, coronary artery disease or other conditions that affect the nerves and blood flow to the penis. Understanding what is causing your ED can help you and your doctor determine personalized treatment options.
