Erection problems are common in adult men.
The correct answer is true. Almost all men have problems getting or keeping an erection at times. It's often nothing to worry about. Erectile dysfunction (ED) occurs when erection problems occur more often. If you feel concerned about erection problems, tell your doctor. There are many ways to treat ED.
Which physical problem could cause ED?
The correct answer is all of the above. Your doctor will want to check to see if you have a health problem that could be causing ED. Treating the health problem may help improve your erections.
If you have an erection in the morning, it can mean there is no physical cause for ED.
The correct answer is true. Having 3 to 5 erections at night also may mean you don't have a physical problem. Even so, it's a good idea to talk with your doctor. An erection problem that does not go away can make you feel bad about yourself. It can also harm your relationship with your partner. In most cases, treatment can help.
What else can lead to ED?
The correct answer is all of the above. Feeling depressed, anxious, or out of touch with your partner can lead to ED. Make time to relax and talk openly with your partner about sex. Counseling may help. See your doctor if you have signs of depression or anxiety.
Which of the following habits may make ED worse?
The correct answer is all of the above. Smoking and smokeless tobacco can cause blood vessels all over the body to become narrow. This may keep blood from getting to the penis. Drinking alcohol or taking drugs such as cocaine also can cause erection problems. Talk with your doctor about how to quit.
Which type of medicine could cause ED?
The correct answer is all of the above. Ask your doctor if any of the medicines you take could be causing ED. Your doctor may suggest a lower dose or have you change to another medicine. Do NOT change or stop taking any medicines without first talking to your doctor.
Which healthy habits may improve ED?
The correct answer is all of the above. The same things that help you stay mentally and physically healthy can improve ED. Talk with your doctor about how to make healthy changes in your life.
Prescription pills for ED will work only when you are sexually aroused.
The correct answer is fact. Sildenafil (Viagra), vardenafil (Levitra, Staxyn), avanafil (Stendra), and tadalafil (Adcirca, Cialis) are prescription pills that treat ED. These medicines help make erections firmer and last longer, but only when you are sexually aroused. They take effect within 15 - 45 minutes and may last for several hours or longer.
You should NOT take ED pills if you also take nitrates for heart disease.
The correct answer is true. Men who take nitroglycerin or nitrates for heart disease should not take pills for ED. Taking both together can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure. This can cause death. ED pills also may not be safe for men with certain health problems. Your doctor can help you decide if these pills are safe for you.
Testosterone therapy can improve erections in some men.
The correct answer is fact. Low testosterone can cause erection problems and a loss of interest in sex. Testosterone therapy can help treat ED and low sex drive. Talk with your doctor if you have lost all interest in sex, notice mood changes, or have swollen breasts. These may be signs of low testosterone.
When medicine doesn't work, other treatments for ED include:
The correct answer is all of the above. A vacuum device pulls blood into the penis and causes an erection. Penis implants are placed in the penis during surgery. They cause the penis to become erect. You can also have medicine injected into your penis. This may work better than ED pills. Talk to your doctor about your options to treat ED.
Herbal supplements help treat ED.
The correct answer is false. Many herbs and supplements are marketed to help improve desire for sex or the ability to have sex. However, supplements have not been proven to work, and they may not always be safe. Always talk with your doctor before taking any supplements or herbal remedies.