The Complete Guide to Erectile Dysfunction

What is erectile dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction is the inability to get or maintain an erection for sexual activity.

Men with erectile dysfunction may still be able to get an erection sometimes but not every time.

Erectile dysfunction is not the same as a loss of libido, as men with erectile dysfunction can still have a strong desire for sex. 

What are the symptoms of erectile dysfunction?

The main symptoms of erectile dysfunction are not being able to get or maintain an erection. 

These symptoms may contribute to other issues such as lowered self-esteem, anxiety, or relationship problems.

It’s always best to discuss any erectile dysfunction symptoms with your GP as they will be able to make a formal diagnosis. Your GP will also suggest possible lifestyle changes and treatment options with you.

Do I have erectile dysfunction or low sex drive?

Erectile dysfunction and low sex drive are often mistaken to be the same thing, but they are different despite showing similar symptoms.

While erectile dysfunction is the ability to get or maintain an erection, low sex drive (libido) is a decrease in the desire to have sex. 

Erectile dysfunction or a low sex drive can happen to men at any age.

Who gets erectile dysfunction?

Men can experience erectile dysfunction at any age, but it is more common in men over 40.

You can be deemed medically fit and healthy, with no underlying health conditions, and still experience erectile dysfunction.

Although you can experience erectile dysfunction at any age or level of fitness. 

There are certain underlying health conditions, medications, and age factors that are common among men with erectile dysfunction.

How is ED diagnosed?

Book an appointment to discuss your ED symptoms with your GP. 

Your GP will be able to give you a formal diagnosis and assess whether or not you have erectile dysfunction.

It is always best to get a diagnosis from your healthcare provider to ensure your ED symptoms aren’t due to any underlying medical conditions. 

Once your GP has made a diagnosis you can begin to discuss the best treatment option for you.

What causes erectile dysfunction?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer as to what causes erectile dysfunction in men. 

This is because there are physical and psychological factors to consider as leading or contributing causes. 

Some of the most commonly reported causes of erectile dysfunction are:

• Stress, anxiety, or depression

• Alcohol, smoking, or illicit drug use

• Low testosterone levels

• High blood pressure

• High cholesterol

• Obesity

• Diabetes

• Certain medications

How to treat erectile dysfunction?

Your doctor may discuss different treatment options based on your medical history and the cause of your ED.

Popular lifestyle changes you can make include:

• Eating a healthy diet

• Exercising in moderation

• Quitting smoking, alcohol, and illicit drugs

• Therapy

• Stress management

Popular medications and devices include:

• ED medication

• Vacuum devices (pumps)

What are the different types of ED medication?

If you have been diagnosed with erectile dysfunction and your doctor has told you that medication is the best option for you. 

You could be prescribed one of the following most popular ED medications:

• Viagra: Viagra is the brand name for generic Sildenafil

• Cialis: Cialis is the brand name for generic Tadalafil

• Levitra: Levitra is the brand name for generic Vardenafil

What are the common side effects of ED medication?

Erectile dysfunction medication is usually tolerated well with it working for the majority of men without any side effects. 

It's always best to be aware of all the side effects of your medication and report them to your GP if you experience any of them. 

The most common side effects for erectile dysfunction medication include:

• Headaches

• Stuffy nose

• Flushing

• Indigestion

• Muscle aches

Where can I purchase erectile dysfunction medication?

Once you have a GP prescription, you can collect erectile dysfunction medication from your nearest in-store pharmacy or online.

If you would prefer an online door-to-door prescription service, you should do this from an online pharmacy registered with the GPhC.

At Pharmacy2U, we are a trusted NHS partner. We stock a wide range of erectile dysfunction medication, which we deliver in discreet packaging to ensure your privacy.