The failure to get and keep an erection firm adequate enough for sexual intercourse is commonly known as erectile dysfunction or impotence. Having trouble from time to time doesn’t necessarily mean that something is wrong. However, if erectile dysfunction is an ongoing issue, it can cause some serious stress, affect your self-confidence and even contribute to relationship problems. This could also be a symptom of an underlying health condition which might need treatment.

If you are worried about erectile dysfunction, consult a doctor even if you feel embarrassed. In many cases, treating an underlying condition can reverse erectile dysfunction. In others, certain medications or other direct treatments might be needed.

Symptoms
Erectile dysfunction symptoms might include persistent trouble of getting an erection with reduced sexual desire. One needs to consult a doctor if-

• One is experiencing other sexual problems, such as premature or even delayed ejaculation.
• You have heart disease, diabetes, or any other known health condition that might be related to erectile dysfunction.
• You are showing other symptoms along with erectile dysfunction.

Causes
In a male, getting sexually stimulated is a complicated process that comprises the brain, hormones, emotions, nerves, muscles, and blood vessels. Erectile dysfunction can be a result when any of these problems arise. Similarly, stress and other mental health concerns can also cause or sometimes worsen erectile dysfunction.

Sometimes even a combination of both physical and psychological issues can be the cause of this condition. Like a minor physical condition, it might cause you anxiety, this anxiety can lead to erectile dysfunction or worsen it.

Risk factors
Old age can cause erections to take longer to develop and be less firm. You even might need medications to get an erection in some cases.

Many risk factors can contribute to erectile dysfunction:

• Medical conditions, particularly diabetes or heart conditions.
• Certain injuries can cause damage to the nerves or arteries that control erections.
• Tobacco use confines the blood movement to veins and arteries, which, over time can cause chronic health conditions, subsequently leading to erectile dysfunction.
• Certain medical treatments, like radiation treatment for cancer or prostate surgery, can cause erectile dysfunction.
• Medications like antidepressants, medications, and antihistamines to treat high blood pressure, prostate conditions, or pain.
• Being overweight, particularly obesity can also cause erectile dysfunction.
• Drug and alcohol can be a cause if you’re a long-term drug user or a heavy drinker.

Prevention
The best way of preventing erectile dysfunction is to make healthier lifestyle choices and manage your existing health conditions.

• Work with your doctor to manage heart disease, diabetes, or other chronic health conditions.
• Get help for depression, anxiety, or other mental health concerns.
• Get regular checkups and medical screening tests.
• Regular exercise
• Take measures to reduce stress.
• Limit or avoid alcohol, stop smoking, and don’t use any illegal drugs.