ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION
ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION: A QUICK-START GUIDE
WHAT IS ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION?
Erectile dysfunction (ED), sometimes called impotence, refers to difficulty getting or keeping an erection firm enough for sexual activity. Occasional challenges are common and may not require medical attention. However, if the issue continues for several months and begins to affect your quality of life, it may be appropriate to discuss it with a licensed healthcare provider.
ED is a frequent concern, especially as men age. Research suggests that:
- About 26% of men under 40 report experiencing ED at some point.
- Around 40% of men at age 40 and up to 70% of men at age 70 report ongoing difficulties.
These numbers highlight that ED is a common medical condition, not an uncommon or isolated issue.
SYMPTOMS OF ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION
The most common symptom of ED is difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection sufficient for sexual activity. This may occur consistently or intermittently. It’s important to note that ED does not always mean a complete inability to have erections—some men may notice erections at certain times (such as during sleep) but not during sexual activity.
ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION TREATMENT
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include: • Lifestyle changes (exercise, nutrition, reducing alcohol or tobacco use) • Counseling or therapy for stress or relationship concerns • Prescription medications, when appropriate and prescribed by a licensed provider • Medical devices such as vacuum erection devices • In some cases, surgical options may be considered There is no single approach that works for everyone. A healthcare provider can help determine the most appropriate plan for your individual situation.
CAUSES OF ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION
ED can result from a variety of factors, often grouped into four categories:
- Medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure)
- Medications (certain prescriptions may list ED as a side effect)
- Lifestyle factors (such as smoking, alcohol use, or lack of physical activity)
- Emotional or psychological factors (including stress, anxiety, or relationship concerns)
HOW LONG DOES TEMPORARY ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION LAST?
Short‑term erection problems can occur due to stress, fatigue, alcohol use, or temporary side effects of medication. These episodes often resolve once the underlying factor improves. If difficulties persist for six months or longer, it may be considered erectile dysfunction and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
CAN STD CAUSE ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION?
Some untreated sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as chlamydia or gonorrhea, may cause complications that affect sexual function. Seeking timely medical care for STIs is important for overall health and may help reduce the risk of related issues.
DOES MEDICARE COVER ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION TREATMENT?
Medicare generally does not cover prescription medications for ED. In some cases, certain devices or surgical procedures may be covered if deemed medically necessary. Coverage varies, so it’s best to review your plan details or speak with a Medicare representative.
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If you are experiencing ongoing symptoms of erectile dysfunction, consider scheduling a confidential consultation with a licensed healthcare provider. They can help identify possible causes and discuss safe, evidence‑based treatment options tailored to your needs.
