Is erectile dysfunction a normal part of aging?

Can erectile dysfunction be caused by stress or anxiety?

Yes. Psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, or depression can contribute to ED, either on their own or in combination with physical causes.

What Is Erectile Dysfunction (ED)?

Adult man sitting on the edge of a bed with a concerned expression while his wife consoles him, representing common challenges associated with erectile dysfunction.

Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is a condition in which a person has difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection firm enough for sexual activity. It is common, especially with age, and may be related to physical health, psychological factors, or a combination of both.

Quick Facts

Condition type: Sexual health / vascular / neurological
Common age group: Adults (risk increases with age)
Treatable: Yes (often manageable with medical care)
Emergency: No (urgent evaluation only if sudden onset is associated with pain, injury, or neurological symptoms)

Symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction

Common symptoms include:

Difficulty getting an erection
Trouble maintaining an erection during sexual activity
Reduced erectile firmness
Decreased sexual confidence or performance anxiety
Emotional distress related to sexual performance

ED may occur occasionally or be persistent, depending on the underlying cause.

Causes of Erectile Dysfunction

ED can result from physical, psychological, or lifestyle-related factors, including:

Reduced blood flow due to cardiovascular disease
Diabetes or blood sugar imbalances
Hormonal changes, including low testosterone
Nerve damage or neurological conditions
Certain medications (such as blood pressure or antidepressant medications)
Stress, anxiety, or depression
Smoking, excessive alcohol use, or lack of physical activity

Symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction

Increasing age
Cardiovascular disease or high blood pressure
Diabetes
Obesity or sedentary lifestyle
Smoking or excessive alcohol use
Certain medications
Stress, anxiety, or depression

Treatment & Management Options

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include:

Medical evaluation to assess cardiovascular, metabolic, hormonal, or neurological factors
Lifestyle changes, such as improving diet, exercise, sleep, and reducing tobacco or alcohol use
Medication management, when clinically appropriate
Treatment of underlying conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or hormonal imbalance
Counseling or therapy when stress, anxiety, or relationship factors contribute to symptoms

A healthcare provider can help determine the safest and most appropriate approach.

Specialties That Treat This Condition

Middle-aged man with side abdomen pain caused by kidney stones, awaiting diagnosis by the urologist.

Urology

Primary Care

Endocrinologist checking a patient's thyroid for any abnormal masses or swelling.

Endocrinology

What To Do Next?

If symptoms persist or interfere with daily life, a healthcare provider can help evaluate the cause and discuss appropriate next steps.

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