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Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction is difficulty getting or keeping an erection firm enough for sex. It is common, often treatable, and can be an early warning sign of heart or blood vessel disease.
Causes & risk factors
- Reduced blood flow (linked to diabetes, high BP, high cholesterol)
- Smoking and heavy alcohol use
- Stress, anxiety and depression
- Low testosterone or other hormone problems
- Nerve damage or some medicines
- Obesity and physical inactivity
Common symptoms
- Difficulty getting an erection
- Difficulty keeping an erection
- Reduced sexual desire
- Erections that are less firm than before
Tests & diagnosis
- Blood sugar
- HbA1c
- Lipid profile
- Testosterone
- Blood pressure check
Treatment & management
- Treating underlying conditions (diabetes, blood pressure, cholesterol)
- Lifestyle changes — stop smoking, exercise, lose weight
- Oral medicines (PDE5 inhibitor category) where suitable
- Addressing stress, anxiety or relationship issues
- Specialist options (injections, devices) if needed
When to see a doctor urgently
- Persistent erection problems affecting confidence or relationships
- ED with chest pain or breathlessness — get the heart checked
- ED alongside diabetes or high blood pressure
- A sudden change with low libido (to check hormones)
Frequently asked questions
Is erectile dysfunction a sign of heart disease?
It can be. The same blood-vessel problems that affect the heart also affect erections, so ED can be an early warning that deserves a heart-risk check.
Is ED just a normal part of ageing?
It becomes more common with age but is not inevitable and is usually treatable. It often points to a treatable cause, so it is worth assessing.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.