UNDERSTANDING UROLOGY
Erectile dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction (ED) means difficulty getting or keeping an erection firm enough for sex. It is common, especially with age, and is often linked to health conditions that can be treated.
What you may notice
- Difficulty getting an erection
- Erections that do not last
- Erections that are less firm than before
- Worry or reduced confidence about sex
Get help quickly if
- An erection that lasts more than 4 hours and will not go down – this is an emergency
- ED together with chest pain or breathlessness on exertion – see a doctor promptly, because ED can be an early sign of heart or circulation problems
In an emergency in Kuwait, call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department.
How it is usually assessed
- A private discussion about your health, medicines, lifestyle and relationship
- An examination and a blood pressure check
- Blood tests, for example for blood sugar, cholesterol and hormones such as testosterone
Treatment options
Treatment depends on the cause and can include treating underlying conditions, lifestyle changes, medicines prescribed by a doctor, and other options such as vacuum devices, injections or, in some cases, surgery. Talking therapy can help when stress, anxiety or relationship factors play a part. No single treatment suits everyone.
What you can do
- Stop smoking, keep active and aim for a healthy weight
- Limit alcohol
- Do not buy erection medicines without a prescription – some are unsafe with heart medicines or other conditions
Based on NHS patient information: nhs.uk/conditions/erection-problems-erectile-dysfunction/
This page is general information, not a personal medical assessment. Speak with a clinician about your own situation before starting or changing any treatment.