Erectile Dysfunction Symptoms Explained

Table of Contents

• Understanding Erectile Dysfunction
• Common Symptoms
• Other Symptoms To Look Out For
• How Can I Tell if I Have Erectile Dysfunction?
• When To See A Doctor
• What Can I Take For Erectile Dysfunction?
• What Happens if Symptoms Are Not Treated?

Understanding Erectile Dysfunction

Before you discover the symptoms of erectile dysfunction, you need to have a good understanding of it. Erectile dysfunction (ED), also known as impotence, is defined as the inability to achieve or maintain an erection long enough for sexual intercourse. It occurs due to physical and physiological factors including stress, performance anxiety, excessive alcohol consumption and underlying health conditions. To learn more about the causes of erectile dysfunction, read our article here. 

Common Symptoms

The common symptoms associated with erectile dysfunction include:

Trouble Getting an Erection

This is one of the most recognised symptoms of erectile dysfunction. Men may find that although they have the desire to have sex, they are unable to achieve an erection. This often happens due to stress, fatigue, low testosterone levels or underlying health conditions such as heart disease or diabetes. Trouble getting an erection can happen occasionally, but this does not necessarily indicate erection dysfunction.

Difficulty Maintaining an Erection

Some men might be able to get an erection, but they find it difficult to maintain the erection for satisfactory sexual intercourse. This could be due to a disruption in the blood flow or nerve functions that sustain the erection. Psychological factors such as stress or anxiety can also contribute to this problem.

Soft Erections

Soft erections occur when a man can get an erection but isn’t firm enough for penetration during sexual intercourse. This can happen occasionally to many men, but when it occurs frequently, it may signal underlying health issues such as heart disease, diabetes or low testosterone levels. Soft erections can also result from stress or anxiety.

Other Symptoms To Look Out For 

Aside from common symptoms, there are other symptoms to look out for including:

Fewer Nighttime Erections

Nighttime erections are normal for men and often occur during the REM (rapid eye movement) phase of sleep. Fewer nighttime erections or “morning wood” may indicate erectile dysfunction caused by a physical problem such as hormonal imbalances, nerve damage or cardiovascular issues. 

Decreased Sexual Desire

Although not always directly associated with the mechanical ability to achieve or maintain an erection, many men with erectile dysfunction experience a decrease in sexual desire or low libido. This can be linked to hormonal imbalances and psychological issues including depression or anxiety. It can also be a secondary effect, stemming from frustration or embarrassment related to erectile dysfunction.

How Can I Tell If I Have Erectile Dysfunction?

While men can occasionally have trouble getting or maintaining an erection, if symptoms happen frequently or seem persistent, you may have erectile dysfunction. If you notice any of these symptoms, keeping track of certain aspects can help you understand symptoms and find a recurring pattern. 

Aspects to keep track of include:

• Frequency and firmness of erections
• Sexual performance - successes and difficulties
• Frequency of sexual desires
• Mood changes such as stress or anxiety 
• Relationship issues

You might be able to determine if erectile dysfunction is caused by physical or physiological factors yourself. A noticeable decrease in nighttime erections and morning wood could indicate an underlying health problem. Experts say that up to 90% of erectile dysfunction cases have at least one underlying health condition such as heart disease, diabetes, hormonal imbalances and neurological disorders. [2] If nocturnal erections are present but symptoms occur during sexual activity, psychological factors might be at play.

When To See A Doctor

If you suspect erectile dysfunction or feel unsure, the next step is to see your GP or doctor. For men with erectile dysfunction, speaking to a medical professional can be daunting or embarrassing, but it can help you get a diagnosis and find the right treatment to get your sex life back on track. It is important to consult with your GP or doctor if:

• Symptoms are present for 3 months or longer
• Your mental health has declined
• You have an underlying health condition such as heart disease or diabetes

During a doctor’s appointment, you will typically be asked questions about your symptoms, if you’re taking any medications and your general health. Your doctor may also conduct a physical examination and take blood or urine tests.

What Can I Take For Erectile Dysfunction?

Fortunately, erectile dysfunction can be treated. Oral medications called phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitors are taken to treat symptoms by blocking the action of the PDE5 enzyme, relaxing the blood vessels and increasing blood to the penis, leading to a firm and long-lasting erection. 

PDE 5 inhibitors can be prescribed by doctors, purchased over the counter or purchased online at a pharmacy. For instance, Chemist Click offers fast and discreet delivery of erectile dysfunction treatments following a free consultation with one of our qualified pharmacists.

Some types of PDE5 inhibitors available at Chemist Click include:

• Viagra - Also known as the “blue pill”, Viagra is a popular brand name for treating erectile dysfunction. It works for 80% of users and comes in boxes of 25 mg, 50 mg and 100mg film-coated tablets.
• Sildenafil - Referred to as “generic Viagra”, Sildenafil is a non-branded version of Viagra. It is effective in over 60% of users and also comes in boxes of 25 mg, 50 mg and 100mg film-coated tablets.
• Viagra Connect - Similar to Viagra, Viagra Connect is an over-the-counter (OTC) option. It only comes in boxes of 50 mg film-coated tablets and is available without a prescription.  
• Cialis - Also known as “the weekend pill”, Cialis is the same class of drugs as Viagra and Sildenafil, except that it offers a longer duration of action than Viagra dependent on the dose. Cialis Daily is available in 2.5 mg or 5 mg tablets and Cialis 36 Hour is available in 10 mg and 20 mg tablets. Cialis Daily is taken for a continuous effect while Cialis 36 Hour is taken 30 minutes before sexual activity and can last up to 36 hours. 
• Tadalafil - Referred to as “generic Cialis”, Tadalafil is a non-branded version of Cialis. It is available in a 2.5 mg and 5 mg strength (to be taken daily) which provides a continuous effect for users. Alternatively, a 10 mg and 20 mg strength is also available which is to be taken when required and can last for up to 36 hours.

For more information and a comparison of these medications, here is a summary table:

There are many popular treatment options for erectile dysfunction, depending on the cause and the specific needs of a person. If you are new to ED medication, please consult with your doctor to discuss your options based on your medical history and individual needs.

What Happens if Erectile Dysfunction Is Not Treated?

Many men may decide to ignore or fail to notice the symptoms of erectile dysfunction. If erectile dysfunction isn’t treated properly, it can lead to a significant decrease in quality of life and mental health, leading to chronic stress or depression. It can also cause communication and intimacy problems in relationships. 

As we mentioned earlier, erection dysfunction could be a sign of an underlying problem. In 2020, a study of 278 patients with erectile dysfunction and a mean age of 54 found that around 59% of patients had a family history of coronary artery disease, 55% had hypertension (blood pressure) and 36% of patients were diabetic. [3] If physical-related erectile dysfunction is left untreated, symptoms can continue to occur and the underlying health problem may progress further. 

Find the best treatment for you and banish symptoms for good, start your free consultation at Chemist Click today.

Sources

1. Mayo Clinic (2022). What Is Erectile Dysfunction? A Mayo Clinic Expert Explains. Retrieved 16th October 2024, from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/erectile-dysfunction/multimedia/vid-20531988
2. The British Association of Urological Surgeons. (2024). Erectile Dysfunction (Impotence). Retrieved 16th October 2024, from: https://www.baus.org.uk/patients/conditions/3/erectile_dysfunction_impotence/
3. Shakeel Ahmed Memon, Muhammad Adil, Fahad Raja Khan, Safi Ullah, Samra Rehmat, Nooh Zad Gul (2020). Association Between Erectile Dysfunction, Cardiovascular Risk Factors, and Coronary Artery Disease. Retrieved 16th October 2024, from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2352906722000823

Whilst all of our content is written and reviewed by healthcare professionals, it is not intended to be substituted for or used as medical advice. If you have any questions or concerns about your health, please speak to your doctor.