Why Can't I Gain or Maintain an Erection?

Why Can’t I Gain or Maintain an Erection?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) can be an incredibly frustrating experience for anyone. Sometimes it might even feel like your anatomy has a mind of its own and when it doesn’t perform, the effects can be disappointing or embarrassing. 

The primary cause of ED in elderly males is usually reduced blood flow, typically because blood vessels around the penis have narrowed and constricted. In younger males, the causes of ED are often down to emotional or psychological issues. 

It’s important to note that erectile dysfunction is not rare – it’s a condition that affects most men, and it may affect roughly half of men under the age of 50 at some point in their lives. 

Is it all in my head?

Although ED can be due to psychological reasons, (performance anxiety, lack of experience, past abuse, etc) often there is a physical component as well. Sometimes ED can be a combination of physical and mental issues. 

Any medical condition that adversely affects the heart, nerves, or blood vessels can harm your ability to have an erection. High blood pressure, heart disease, kidney disease, and multiple sclerosis can all contribute to ED. Men suffering from diabetes can also struggle with ED. 

Hormone issues, like low levels of testosterone, are another contributing factor to ED – especially for older men. Certain cancer treatments that involve radiation or surgery can also cause ED.  

Stress, anxiety, and depression can also play a part in erectile dysfunction. 

What about medications?

There are some medications that can harm your ability to get an erection, such as blood pressure drugs and some antidepressants. 

If you believe that your medication is in some way causing ED, talk to a doctor or qualified health professional. Your doctor may advise you to take different medications or otherwise alter your treatment. 

Lifestyle factors and erectile dysfunction

Lifestyle factors that contribute to ED include:

• Being overweight 
• Too little exercise
• Smoking
• High levels of alcohol consumption

Anything that affects your general health and causes problems with circulation can also cause issues with erections. 

Age and erectile dysfunction 

Ageing on its own doesn’t directly cause erectile dysfunction, although older men are more likely to have some form of ED.  Treatment can help anyone with ED, no matter what their age is. 

What can be done to help or prevent erectile dysfunction?

There are several lifestyle adjustments that will help treat or prevent ED. These are as follows:

• Stop smoking
• Lower alcohol consumption
• Improve cholesterol levels (if they’re too high)
• Improve blood sugar levels (if they’re too high)

Lifestyle adjustments can help but there are medications that also help treat ED, which include: 

• Sildenafil
• Tadalafil
• Vardenafil

These drugs can often help whether your problem is physical or psychological. There are also other alternative treatment options or therapies, like penis pumps, that can help with ED.