Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) describes ongoing trouble getting an erection, or keeping one, that is firm enough for sex. Men of any age can experience it, although it grows more common as men get older.

Possible causes range from poor blood flow, diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol to hormone problems, certain medicines, stress, anxiety and difficulties in a relationship. ED can sometimes be an early sign of heart disease, which is a good reason to raise it with a GP.

The medicines most often used for ED are PDE5 inhibitors, a group that includes sildenafil, tadalafil and vardenafil. They help blood flow when there is sexual stimulation.