Erectile dysfunction is the inability to get and maintain an erection. Occasional trouble with ED is likely nothing to worry about.

Decreased blood flow, usually because vessels that supply blood to the penis have narrowed, is often the cause of ED in older men.

Being unable to have or keep an erection adequate for sexual activity is the defining mark of erectile dysfunction.

If you are having problems achieving or maintaining an erection, you may want to take a look at your medicine cabinet first.

Psychological factors like stress, anxiety, and depression are responsible for about 10%-20% of cases of erectile dysfunction.

Many things can lead to ED. Stress, depression, anxiety, and alcohol use often trigger it.

About 35% to 75% of men with diabetes will experience at least some degree of erectile dysfunction during their lifetimes.

Vascular diseases, which affect blood flow to the organs, may be the cause of ED in as many as 50% to 70% of men who have it.

The link between atherosclerosis -- the hardening of the body's arteries -- and erectile dysfunction is well known to doctors.

Many drugs that treat high blood pressure have been linked to erectile dysfunction, but some are less likely to cause problems.

Prostate cancer is not a cause of erectile dysfunction. However, treatments for the disease can cause it.

With so many possible causes for ED, your doctor has a number of tests they can use to figure out the best treatment for you.

Erectile dysfunction can be treated at any age. Treatment depends on your overall health and the underlying cause of the problem.

It can be embarrassing to discuss sexual matters with your doctor. Yet a doctor’s appointment is necessary to get ED treatment.

A vacuum constriction device is an external pump with a band on it that a man with ED can use to get and maintain an erection.

A penile prosthesis or implant is an effective treatment for erectile dysfunction.

Vascular reconstructive surgery is one way to improve blood flow to the penis to help a man with ED get and keep an erection.

You may already know the names: Cialis, Levitra, Staxyn, Stendra, Viagra. Learn more about these medications that can help ED.

Alprostadil, available as an injection or a suppository, is a drug that makes the blood vessels expand.

Future treatments for ED focus on providing medications that are more effective, work rapidly, and have fewer side effects.

When ED occurs due to decreased testosterone production, testosterone replacement therapy may improve the problem.

There are many ways your doctor can help you treat ED. You may want to consider complementary or alternative therapies.

You can buy extract of the bark of the yohimbe tree – long used as an aphrodisiac in western Africa -- as a dietary supplement.

Men who smoke are about twice as likely to develop ED as nonsmokers.

ED takes more than a physical toll. The emotional impact the condition can have on a man and their partner can be difficult, too.

ED can take a toll on a relationship. You’ll want to support and encourage your partner as they manage their condition.

If you’re going through ED, it’s important to know that sex isn’t the only way to be intimate with your partner.

When you’re experiencing erection problems, you’re not alone. Your spouse or partner is also affected.

Sex therapy is a short form of counseling that can help you cope with erectile dysfunction.

Stress often plays a role in erectile dysfunction. Here are some tips for coping with stress.

Looking to broaden your understanding of ED? These organizations can help.