Question: What are the symptoms of erectile dysfunction?
Answer: Symptoms of erectile dysfunction (ED) include

getting anerectionsometimes, but not every time you want to have sex
getting an erection, but it doesn't last long enough for sex
being unable to get an erection at any time

ED may be a symptom of another health problem.
Question: What causes ED?
Answer: ED can have different causes. Some diseases or health conditions that affect your blood vessels, nerves, or hormones can lead to ED. Also, certain medicines, mental or emotional issues, and lifestyle behaviors may lead to ED.

Diseases and conditions

The most common diseases and conditions that can lead to ED include

diabetes
chronic health conditions, such aschronic kidney disease,obesity and overweight, andchronic obstructive pulmonary disease
heart and blood vessel diseases, such asatherosclerosis,high blood pressure, andstroke
hormoneissues, such aslow testosteroneandthyroidimbalance
nerve damage or disorders, such asmultiple sclerosis,spinal cord injuries, and damage from pelvic surgery
problems of the male reproductive system, such asenlarged prostateand penile curvature, also calledPeyronie’s disease

Medicines

ED can be a side effect of many common prescription and over-the-counter medicines, such as

antidepressants
appetite suppressants, or medicines that make you less hungry
antihistamines, or medicines forallergiesorheartburn
blood pressure medicinesanddiuretics, or water pills
chemotherapyand hormone medicines
some pain relievers, such asnonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs,codeine, andoxycodone
sedatives, or medicines that make you calm or sleepy
ulcermedicines

Mental health or emotional issues

Some mental health or emotional issues can either cause ED or make it worse, including

anxiety,depression, orstress
feeling isolated or lonely
low self-esteem, lack of confidence, or negative body image

Lifestyle behaviors

Certain lifestyle behaviors may contribute to ED, including

not getting enoughphysical activity
drinking too muchalcohol
smokingcigarettes
usingrecreational and illicit drugs