Overview
An erection needs healthy blood flow, nerves, hormones, and emotions. A problem with any of these can cause ED.
Because ED often comes from narrowed blood vessels, it can show up years before a heart attack. Getting checked can protect your heart.
Symptoms
Common signs:
- Trouble getting or keeping an erection
Less common
- Lower sex drive
- Stress or worry about sex
When to get medical care
Causes
Common causes are narrowed blood vessels, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, nerve damage, low testosterone, some medicines, alcohol, smoking, stress, anxiety, and depression.
Does it spread or run in families?
- It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.
Who is more likely to get it
- Age over 40
- Diabetes or heart disease
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Depression
Possible complications
- Heart disease: ED can be an early warning
Diagnosis
Diagnosis starts with a talk and an exam.
Questions you may be asked
- When it started and whether you have morning erections
- Medicines, alcohol, smoking, and stress
The exam
They'll check blood pressure, genitals, and signs of hormone or nerve problems.
Tests
Tests:
- Blood tests: Blood sugar, cholesterol, and testosterone.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause.
Self-care
- Be active
- Quit smoking
- Limit alcohol
- Keep a healthy weight
- Manage stress and talk with your partner
Medicines
PDE5 pills are the first choice for most men.
| Medicine | Helps with | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| PDE5 inhibitors | Most ED | Never take with nitrate heart medicines like nitroglycerin; blood pressure can drop dangerously. |
| Testosterone | Only when testosterone is low |
OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.
Pills work for many men. Other options include vacuum devices, shots, and implants. Counseling helps when stress or relationship issues play a part.
Prevention
A healthy heart supports healthy erections:
- Exercise
- Don't smoke
- Control blood pressure, sugar, and cholesterol
Which doctor treats this
- Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
- They may send you to a urologist (urinary tract doctor).
Children, pregnancy, and older adults
- Younger men: Stress, anxiety, and alcohol are common causes.
Outlook
Most men with ED find a treatment that works.
Getting ready for your visit
It's a common, treatable problem.
What to bring
- Medicine list
Questions to ask
- Could my heart or blood sugar be part of this?
- Is ED medicine safe for me?
Research studies
Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.
Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Erectile dysfunction (ED)
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-12.