What are the causes and treatments for erectile dysfunction?

It’s something around one in five men over the age of 40 will experience, but there are treatments for erectile dysfunction which can help.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) – sometimes also called impotence – refers to not being able to achieve or maintain an erection. This can interfere with a person’s ability to enjoy or even engage in sexual intercourse, and their ability to reach sexual climax. It can also create issues with intimacy in general, plus shame, depression and anxiety about sex. 

It’s important to know that if you’re experiencing erectile dysfunction, help is available, and depending on what the cause is, treatments for erectile dysfunction may be able to eliminate the problem altogether. 

“Putting off that awkward conversation with your doctor is understandable, says Dr Andrew Thompson, Medical Director at Instant Scripts, “however, there are very effective treatments out there and improving our sexual health has many benefits, including creating stronger relationships, reducing anxiety and an improved overall sense of wellbeing.”

Because it can often be a sensitive or difficult topic to talk to a doctor about in person, services such as InstantScripts are able to help by providing discreet medical advice over the phone. 

What young men need to know about erectile dysfunction

It is important that young men especially are aware of the reasons and causes for ED so they can stay on top of their overall health. 

“The cause of erectile dysfunction should always be investigated, particularly in young men,” explains Dr Thompson. 

“Most commonly this condition is related to psychological issues or cardiovascular disease. It is important to consult with your doctor prior to starting medication as the symptoms could indicate a larger issue and your risk of developing heart disease later in life is higher.” 

Symptoms of erectile dysfunction 

Erectile dysfunction can incorporate a wide range of symptoms. These include:

• Being able to achieve an erection, but not being able to maintain it long enough for intercourse
• Sometimes being able to achieve an erection, but other times being unable to achieve one
• Never being able to achieve an erection 
• Experiencing problems engaging in sexual intercourse due to your penis not being hard enough
• Low self-esteem
• Depression 
• Distress for both you and your partner

Erectile dysfunction causes

Erectile dysfunction can have a number of causes, both physical and psychological. Risk factors such as age, weight, smoking, vaping and alcohol use can all impact your likelihood of developing ED. 

Physical causes and risk factors:

• Prostate cancer (approximately 85% patients with a previous prostate cancer diagnosis experience some form of ED)
• Parkinson’s disease
• Heart disease
• Obesity
• High cholesterol
• High blood pressure
• Asthma
• Thyroid conditions

Psychological and emotional causes

• Anxiety and depression 
• Stress and performance anxiety
• Low self esteem

Medications and other drugs

• Blood pressure medication 
• Antidepressants
• Ulcer medications
• Appetite suppressants
• Cocaine
• Marijuana
• Crystal meth/Ice
• Barbiturates

Erectile dysfunction treatment

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, the first point of call should be a visit a doctor to try and find out what is causing your erectile dysfunction. 

From there, your doctor will be able to order tests and ask lifestyle questions to help narrow down the cause. 

Lifestyle and behaviour modification 

Lifestyle and nutrition are both recognised as having an impact on erectile function and testosterone production, so making some changes to your exercise, diet and behaviour (such as smoking, alcohol and drug use) can greatly improve your symptoms, or even eliminate ED completely.

Psychological treatment

If the root cause of your erectile dysfunction is found to be psychological, treating the emotional issues at play is essential. Talk therapy and natural alternatives can all be used to improve the psychological factors impacting ED.

Medication

If you are experiencing symptoms, you should speak to a doctor to find out the right treatment for you. You can request a telehealth consultation with one of our Australian-registered doctors from anywhere in Australia, seven days a week.

Bek Day is a writer and journalist with over 15 years of experience in the health and lifestyle space.