What to know about erectile dysfunction in men

Occasional difficulty can happen with stress, tiredness, alcohol, or illness. Persistent or repeated difficulty may occur alongside diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, pelvic surgery, nerve problems, low testosterone, depression, anxiety, or side effects from medicines. It can affect confidence and intimacy, but it is a medical symptom rather than a measure of masculinity. A clinician may ask about erections, desire, medicines, sleep, mood, and cardiovascular health.

Arrange a private appointment if the problem keeps returning, causes distress, or begins after a medicine change. Bring a list of medicines and supplements, including products bought online. Regular activity, sleep, limiting alcohol, stopping tobacco, and managing diabetes or blood pressure can support sexual health. Do not use another person’s tablets or unregulated enhancement products; treatments can interact with heart medicines and may be unsafe for some people.

Seek urgent help for an erection that is painful or lasts unusually long, especially if it does not settle. Get prompt assessment for erectile difficulty with chest pain, breathlessness, fainting, new neurological symptoms, penile injury, or severe pain. A sudden change after starting a medicine should be discussed with the prescriber rather than managed by stopping treatment alone.

Ask what health conditions or medicines could contribute, whether blood pressure or blood tests are appropriate, and which treatments fit your health history. Discuss how to use any prescribed medicine, what to avoid with it, and whether counselling or relationship support could help.