Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction is the inability to maintain an erection for sexual activity.
About Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction (ED), also known as impotence, is the ongoing inability to get or maintain an erection for sexual activity. While occasional difficulty is normal, persistent ED can impact confidence, relationships, and overall health. It may be linked to underlying conditions such as heart disease, neurological disorders, mental health issues, or medication side effects. Stress, anxiety, fatigue, and substance use can also contribute to ED.
Types of Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction can have various causes, which are generally classified into four main types. Identifying the underlying cause can help determine the most effective treatment approach.
Types of erectile dysfunction include:
- Hormonal erectile dysfunction: Caused by a deficiency in testosterone or thyroid-related issues.
- Neurogenic erectile dysfunction: Occurs due to nerve problems that prevent signals from traveling from the brain to the penis. This can result from trauma, pelvic surgery, radiation therapy, or neurological conditions such as stroke, spinal stenosis, and multiple sclerosis (MS).
- Psychogenic erectile dysfunction: Linked to psychological conditions that affect thoughts, feelings, or behavior.
- Vascular erectile dysfunction: The most common type of ED, affecting the blood vessels supplying blood to the tissues in the penis.
Symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction symptoms are ongoing and often worsen over time.
Symptoms of erectile dysfunction may include:
- Difficulty getting an erection
- Difficulty maintaining an erection
- Reduced desire for sexual activity
- Needing significant stimulation to maintain an erection
Risk Factors for Erectile Dysfunction
As you age, erections may take longer to occur and might not be as firm. However, erectile dysfunction is not a normal part of aging.
Risk factors for erectile dysfunction may include:
- Certain medical treatments, including prostate surgery or radiation treatment for cancer
- Diabetes or heart conditions
- Previous injuries that damage the nerves or arteries controlling erections
- Medications, including antidepressants, antihistamines, and those used to treat high blood pressure, pain, or prostate conditions
- Mental health conditions, including stress, anxiety, and depression
- Substance use
Treating Erectile Dysfunction at UT Medicine
While medical intervention is often the first line of treatment for ED, management typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes, such as cardiovascular exercise and quitting smoking, along with medications like Sildenafil (Viagra®) or Alprostadil (Caverject®). Medications or counseling, such as sex therapy or testosterone replacement therapy, can address issues like ED and premature ejaculation. For hormone-related infertility, hormone replacement or other treatments may be recommended. Your care team will guide you through the risks, benefits, and what to expect during the treatment and recovery process.
