Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a condition that affects many men, but it can be reversed in many cases. A study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found a 29% remission rate after 5 years. The time needed to cure ED will depend on the cause, but there are treatments available for all cases. The first step is to see your primary doctor if you have ED for more than a few weeks.
They'll evaluate your general health, as the condition may be the first sign of more serious health problems, such as heart disease. There are four main types of health conditions that can cause physical problems that lead to ED. If ED is due to stress, anxiety or depression, or if it's creating stress and tension in the relationship, your doctor may suggest seeing a psychologist or counselor. In addition to helping improve ED, these changes can also improve your overall health and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
You may have found many products marketed as natural cures for ED, but it's primarily treated by addressing the cause of the problem, whether physical or psychological. Depending on the cause and severity of your ED and any underlying health condition, you may have several treatment options. If the underlying cause is psychological (stress-related), a sensory approach or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) may be useful. If a hormonal condition is causing ED, you may be referred to an endocrinologist (who specializes in treating hormonal conditions).
For many people, a physical exam and answers to questions (medical history) are all that is needed for a doctor to diagnose ED and recommend treatment. Recent studies have found that exercise, especially moderate to intense aerobic activity, can improve ED. Anything that interferes with the nervous system or blood circulation could cause ED. If you're unusually young to experience ED, as it's rare in men under 40, this could be the case.
