What Is Erectile Dysfunction (ED)?
Erectile dysfunction means difficulty getting or keeping an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. It’s not the same as occasionally having trouble that happens to most men at some point. ED is when the problem persists. Then it starts affecting your confidence, relationship, or quality of life.
It’s surprisingly common. Research suggests around half of men aged 40-70 experience some degree of ED. It becomes more prevalent with age. But it’s not just an “older man’s problem”; younger men can be affected too. It’s often due to psychological factors, lifestyle choices, or underlying health conditions.
Having ED doesn’t make you less of a man. It’s almost always treatable. The first step is simply acknowledging it and seeking professional advice. This is exactly what our men’s health clinic in Maidstone is here for.
Causes of Erectile Dysfunction
ED rarely has just one cause. Usually, it’s a combination of physical and psychological factors working together.
Physical causes
Physical causes include cardiovascular problems that affect blood flow, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, and hormonal imbalances. Some medications, particularly those for blood pressure or depression, can contribute to ED as well. Excessive alcohol, smoking, and lack of exercise all play a role too.
Psychological causes
Psychological causes shouldn’t be underestimated. Stress, anxiety, depression, and relationship difficulties can all trigger or worsen erectile dysfunction. Performance anxiety creates a vicious cycle. Thus worrying about ED causes ED, which then causes more worry.
Lifestyle factors
Lifestyle factors matter more than many men realise. Poor diet, lack of physical activity, too much alcohol, and smoking all damage the blood vessels and nerves needed for healthy erections.
But there’s good news. These are factors you can control.
During your consultation, we’ll discuss potential causes specific to your situation. Sometimes, ED is an early warning sign of cardiovascular disease. This is why it’s important to get properly assessed rather than simply ordering medication online.
ED Medication Side Effects & Safety
All ED medications are safe when prescribed appropriately. But like any medicine, they can cause side effects in some men.
Common side effects
Common side effects include headaches, facial flushing, indigestion, and nasal congestion. These are usually mild and temporary. Tadalafil can occasionally cause back pain. Most men find side effects decrease with regular use as their body adjusts.
Serious side effects
Serious side effects are rare but important to be aware of. If you experience sudden vision changes, hearing loss, chest pain during sexual activity, or an erection lasting over 4 hours. Then seek immediate medical attention.
Safety considerations
ED medications aren’t suitable for everyone. They absolutely cannot be taken with nitrates (used for angina) or certain other medications. Men with hypotension (blood pressure below 90/50 mmHg) are excluded from this service.
Men who have suffered a stroke or myocardial infarction within the last 6 months, or who have unstable angina, are excluded. This is precisely why our pharmacist conducts thorough health assessments rather than simply handing over tablets.
Drug interactions are another reason professional advice matters. Treatments cannot be supplied if you are taking potent CYP3A4 inhibitors such as ketoconazole, ritonavir, or certain antibiotics like erythromycin. We’ll review everything you’re taking to ensure safety.
If a patient does not respond after 8 doses at the maximum tolerated dose of one PDE-5 inhibitor, we will refer to the GP for further assessment, in line with the PGD.
