Can you develop erectile dysfunction

Aside from vascular issues related to obesity, having a high waist circumference has been linked to a higher risk of erectile dysfunction. Excess body fat can also interfere with hormone levels which could affect your sexual function.

Erectile dysfunction is a condition that often develops slowly over time related to underlying issues affecting the nervous system, circulatory system, or other systems in the body. Certain medications — particularly those for diabetes or heart conditions — are a risk factor for erectile dysfunction. If you suspect your medications are contributing to your ED, talk to your healthcare provider about adjusting your dosage or making a switch.

The U. If you have low testosterone, testosterone replacement therapy could also help. Many cases of erectile dysfunction are, at least in part, linked to psychological and emotional issues. If you struggle with anxiety or depression, or if you experience stress related to sex, it may help to speak to a licensed therapist.

Your therapist can help you identify and work through mental and emotional issues that may be contributing to your ED. It may also help to bring your partner in to some of your counseling sessions so the two of you can learn how to work through the issue together. If you have concerns about your sexual health or performance, talk to your primary care physician.

Erectile dysfunction and other sexual health concerns are often treatable, but the first step is diagnosing the underlying cause. Once you have a better understanding of the factors contributing to your ED, you can work with your physician to find the right treatment option for you. Together, you can work toward a more enjoyable and satisfying sexual experience for the both of you. ED is quite common, with studies showing that about one half of American men over age 40 are affected.

Erectile dysfunction is a problem for millions of men, but there are many approaches that can help. Start with these Most men may not openly talk about their erection problems, but erectile dysfunction — when a man cannot achieve or maintain an erection well enough or long enough to have satisfying sex — is very common.

However, only about 5 percent of all men under 40 have complete ED. Problems getting or keeping an erection can also be a sign of an underlying health condition that needs treatment and a risk factor for heart disease. If you're concerned about erectile dysfunction, talk to your doctor — even if you're embarrassed. Sometimes, treating an underlying condition is enough to reverse erectile dysfunction. In other cases, medications or other direct treatments might be needed.

Our caring team of Mayo Clinic experts can help you with your health concerns. Visit Mayo Clinic Men's Health to get started. Male sexual arousal is a complex process that involves the brain, hormones, emotions, nerves, muscles and blood vessels.

Erectile dysfunction can result from a problem with any of these. Likewise, stress and mental health concerns can cause or worsen erectile dysfunction. Sometimes a combination of physical and psychological issues causes erectile dysfunction. For instance, a minor physical condition that slows your sexual response might cause anxiety about maintaining an erection. The resulting anxiety can lead to or worsen erectile dysfunction. The brain plays a key role in triggering the series of physical events that cause an erection, starting with feelings of sexual excitement.

A number of things can interfere with sexual feelings and cause or worsen erectile dysfunction. These include:. As you get older, erections might take longer to develop and might not be as firm. You might need more direct touch to your penis to get and keep an erection. The best way to prevent erectile dysfunction is to make healthy lifestyle choices and to manage any existing health conditions.

In men with medical causes like nerve damage or insufficient blood supply to the penis, ED may require use of medications. Learn what can cause ED at 30 and what treatment options are available. Plus, tips for talking to your doctor and your partner.

Experts agree that ED is common. But just how common is it? Get the research here, plus information on causes and treatment. VigRX Plus is marketed as a safe supplement to enhance sexual performance, but does it actually work? We review the research. Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Medically reviewed by Daniel Murrell, M. Read on to learn what you can do to improve erectile function. Lifestyle factors.

Psychological factors. Medical causes.