Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to maintain or initiate an erection upon arousal. It is fairly common for men to experience occasional ED. Some men experience this due to stress and emotional or relationship difficulties. However, frequent ED may be a sign of underlying conditions.
ED manifests the following symptoms:
- Lower libido
- Trouble getting and maintaining an erection
- Reluctance to get intimate with your partner
- Disappointment with your performance in bed
- Delayed ejaculation
- Premature ejaculation
- Anorgasmia (inability to climax after ample stimulation)
ED can be caused by both physical and emotional factors. The most common ones are:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Diabetes
- Hypertension (and hypertension medication)
- Injuries
- Damage from cancer, surgery, or trauma to the genitourinary system
- Substance abuse
- Smoking
- Hyperlipidemia
- Obesity
- Advanced age
- Performance anxiety (usually during the first few attempts at sexual intercourse)
- Emotional distress
- Stress and fatigue
According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, up to 30 million American men experience ED. Its prevalence increases with age, affecting 12% of men below 60 to 30% of men 70 and older.
If you experience ED, contact our Yale-trained, board-certified urologist and surgeon, Dr. Choi, to discuss options and solutions!
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