Erectile dysfunction affects many men, particularly as they get older, and it is something people often hesitate to raise.
Occasional difficulty getting or keeping an erection is not unusual. When it becomes a recurring problem, it can point to an underlying health condition that deserves attention.
What causes erectile dysfunction?
ED is associated with a number of physical and emotional factors, including:
- Diabetes and high blood pressure
- Heart disease and circulation problems
- Excess weight and physical inactivity
- Stress, anxiety and depression
- Hormonal changes
- Side effects of certain medications
One connection matters more than most: in some men, ED is an early sign of blood vessel disease, appearing before any other symptom of heart trouble. That is why persistent ED is worth a conversation with a prescriber rather than being written off as part of getting older.
What treatment options are available?
The common prescription medications are sildenafil (Viagra) and tadalafil (Cialis). They improve blood flow and work well for many patients.
They are not appropriate for everyone. They must never be combined with nitrate medications such as nitroglycerin, or with certain others such as riociguat, because the drop in blood pressure can be dangerous. Your prescriber should review your history and everything you take before recommending treatment.
Can lifestyle changes help?
Yes. Regular activity, a healthy weight, stopping smoking, limiting alcohol and keeping diabetes or blood pressure under control can all improve erectile function. So can addressing stress, poor sleep and relationship worries.
The best approach deals with the symptom and with what is causing it.
Questions about ED medications or interactions? Our pharmacy team can talk it through privately and respectfully.
Your Health. Our Priority.
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This article is for general educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Always talk to your healthcare provider before starting, stopping or changing any medication or supplement.