Question 1

What causes erectile dysfunction?

Accepted Answer

ED can be caused by vascular disease (the most common cause in older men), diabetes, neurological conditions, hormonal factors (including low testosterone), psychological factors (stress, anxiety, relationship issues), certain medications, alcohol or tobacco use, or a combination. Persistent ED can also be an early sign of undiagnosed cardiovascular disease and is worth evaluating.

Question 2

When should someone seek clinical evaluation for ED?

Accepted Answer

Consider clinical evaluation when ED is persistent (lasting several months), affects sexual satisfaction or relationships, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as chest pain on exertion, decreased libido, or fatigue. Because ED can be an early indicator of cardiovascular or metabolic conditions, a general health check is often part of the evaluation.

Question 3

What treatment categories are typically used?

Accepted Answer

Evidence-based categories include oral PDE5 inhibitors (sildenafil, tadalafil, vardenafil, avanafil) as first-line pharmacologic therapy for many patients, lifestyle interventions, treatment of underlying conditions (diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea), psychotherapy where psychogenic factors contribute, and — in specific situations — testosterone therapy or other prescribed options. A licensed clinician determines what is appropriate.

Question 4

Can ED be treated online?

Accepted Answer

Yes — evaluation, prescribing of PDE5 inhibitors, and follow-up are commonly delivered via telehealth. Complex cases, suspected serious cardiovascular disease, or unresponsive-to-first-line-therapy situations may benefit from in-person evaluation.

Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

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