Symptoms
- Difficulty getting an erection
- Erections that don’t last for sex
- Reduced morning erections
- Loss of confidence or avoidance of intimacy
Erectile dysfunction
Difficulty getting or keeping an erection affects around half of men over 40 at some point. It’s very treatable — and occasionally an early signpost to circulation issues worth knowing about.
Medically reviewed by Dr [GP Name], General Practitioner GMC 0000000
Why it happens
Circulatory factors (blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, smoking), psychological factors (stress, anxiety, low mood), some medicines, alcohol, and less commonly low testosterone. Often it’s a mix.
Treatment
Effective prescription tablet treatments improve blood flow and work for most men; they require a proper assessment because of interactions with some heart medicines. Addressing underlying causes — and talking therapy for psychological ED — also works well.
Self-care that helps
Exercise, weight management, stopping smoking, moderating alcohol, and sleep all measurably improve erectile function. If anxiety is in the loop, addressing it directly helps more than ignoring it.
When to get help
New, persistent ED — especially under 45 or with cardiovascular risk factors — deserves a check rather than just a pill. Sudden ED with pain needs urgent assessment.
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