Sexual Health & Performance

Erectile dysfunction

Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection, impacting sexual performance and confidence.

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Dr. C. Alexandru

General Medicine Doctor | CUIM: 2791492305

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Dr. Cosmin Alexandru has 20+ years in emergency and family medicine, now serving at County Clinic Hospital Sibiu.
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Treatment Information

Understanding Erection Problems

Erection problems, also known as erectile dysfunction (ED), refers to the ongoing difficulty in achieving or sustaining an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. While occasional difficulties are common and usually not a cause for concern, persistent ED can significantly impact confidence, relationships, and overall well-being. Identifying the root cause is essential for finding the right treatment and improving sexual health.

Common Causes of Erection Problems

Several factors contribute to erectile dysfunction, including:

  • Physical health conditions: Cardiovascular disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and hormonal imbalances.
  • Psychological factors: Stress, anxiety, depression, and performance pressure.
  • Lifestyle choices: Smoking, excessive alcohol intake, poor diet, and lack of exercise can impair blood circulation and worsen ED symptoms.
  • Medications and medical treatments: Some prescription drugs and treatments, including chemotherapy and radiation, can negatively impact erectile function.

Lifestyle and Treatment Options

For men experiencing persistent erection problems, Rx medications can help improve blood flow to the penis, making it easier to achieve and maintain an erection. Some of the most commonly prescribed ED medications include:

  • Sildenafil (Viagra®) – A well-known PDE5 inhibitor that enhances blood flow and is typically effective for up to 4–6 hours.
  • Tadalafil (Cialis®) – Offers a longer duration of action, lasting up to 36 hours, allowing for greater spontaneity.
  • Vardenafil (Levitra®) – Similar to sildenafil but may work slightly faster for some men.

These medications help relax blood vessels in the penis, allowing for improved blood flow when sexually aroused. However, they are not an instant solution and require sexual stimulation to be effective.

Other Treatment & Lifestyle Adjustments

  • Regular Exercise: Improves cardiovascular health and blood circulation.
  • Healthy Diet: Reducing processed foods and increasing heart-healthy options can support better blood flow.
  • Managing Stress: Techniques such as meditation and therapy can reduce anxiety-related ED.
  • Quitting Smoking & Reducing Alcohol Intake: Both significantly impact circulation and erectile function.

Additional treatment information

Erection problems can present in various ways. Recognizing the signs early can help find effective solutions. Common symptoms include:

  • Difficulty achieving an erection consistently.
  • Struggles with maintaining an erection throughout sexual activity.
  • Reduced sexual desire or performance anxiety.
  • Erections that are softer than usual or do not last as long.

Occasional difficulties are normal, but if symptoms persist for several weeks or months, seeking treatment can help improve the situation.

If you’re dealing with erection problems, keep these important points in mind:

  • Ignoring the issue can increase stress and worsen symptoms over time.
  • ED is often a sign of underlying health conditions, such as heart disease or diabetes, requiring medical attention.
  • Lifestyle changes can significantly improve erectile function.
  • Combining medication with healthy habits leads to the best results.
  • There are various treatment options, and finding the right one can restore confidence and sexual well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to common questions about Erectile dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) can be caused by various physical and psychological factors. Common physical causes include poor blood circulation, heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and hormonal imbalances. Psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, depression, and relationship problems can also contribute to erection difficulties. Additionally, lifestyle choices like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, and lack of exercise can increase the risk of ED.
ED is very common, affecting millions of men worldwide. Around 50% of men over 40 experience some form of ED at least once. The likelihood increases with age, but younger men can also be affected due to stress, anxiety, or unhealthy lifestyle habits.
If you frequently struggle to achieve or maintain an erection firm enough for sexual activity, you may be experiencing ED. Signs include weaker erections, performance anxiety, and reduced libido. If these issues persist for several months, treatment may be necessary.
ED can occur at any age but becomes more common with aging. Around 40% of men in their 40s experience ED, and this increases by about 10% per decade (e.g., 50% in their 50s, 60% in their 60s). However, ED in younger men is often linked to stress, anxiety, or lifestyle factors.
There are several prescription medications available, known as PDE5 inhibitors, which improve blood flow to the penis. The most common include:
  • Sildenafil (Viagra®): Works within 30–60 minutes, lasting up to 4–6 hours.
  • Tadalafil (Cialis®): Takes effect in 30 minutes and lasts up to 36 hours.
  • Vardenafil (Levitra®): Similar to sildenafil but may act slightly faster.
These medications do not work instantly and require sexual stimulation to be effective.

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