The most common sex problem that men report to their doctor is erectile dysfunction, or ED. It affects up to 30 million men.

ED is defined as difficulty obtaining or maintaining a firm enough erection for sex.

Though it is not uncommon for a man to experience erection problems from time to time, ED that is progressive or occurs on a regular basis with sex is not normal and should be treated.

When you have erectile dysfunction, you should consult your family doctor. Consult your doctor if you have concerns about your erections or other sexual issues such as premature or delayed ejaculation. You have diabetes, heart disease, or another known health condition that may be associated with erectile dysfunction. You have additional symptoms in addition to erectile dysfunction.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common side effect of many prescription medications. While these medications may be used to treat a disease or condition, they can also have an effect on a man’s hormones, nerves, or blood circulation, resulting in ED or increasing the risk of ED.

If you have ED and suspect that it is caused by the medication you are taking, do not stop taking it. If the problem persists, consult your doctor, who may be able to recommend a different medication. ED is a potential side effect of several common medications.

There are numerous potential causes of ED, which can include both emotional and physical issues. Physical causes that are common include:

• coronary artery disease
  Diabetes hypertension, also known as high blood pressure
  high cholesterol levels
  hypothyroidism
  obesity

Some people have difficulty with their penis hardening or remaining firm on occasion. However, erectile dysfunction (ED) is frequently only a cause for concern when satisfactory sexual performance is consistently impossible.

Since the discovery that the drug sildenafil, or Viagra, affected penile erections, there has been a greater understanding that ED is a treatable condition. People who have a problem with their sexual performance, on the other hand, may be hesitant to talk to their doctor because it is an embarrassing issue. ED is now well understood, and various treatments are available.