The likelihood of developing erectile dysfunction increases as you get older, just like with many health issues. The percentage of men who suffer from ED increases with each decade of life, from about 2% to 12% by age 40. Approximately half of all men over 70 years of age experience some symptoms of ED. 2. The body converts testosterone into estrogen when you are overweight. It is for this reason that scientists believe obesity and a sedentary lifestyle (little to no exercise, unhealthy food choices, etc.) can contribute to erectile dysfunction. 3. Stress or mental health issues can interfere with your brain's ability to create nerve connections and release the hormones responsible for erections. In addition to depression and anxiety, relationship difficulties, grief, watching too much pornography, and even performance anxiety in the bedroom are examples of stressors. 4. The diagnosis of diabetes is overwhelming for many reasons, and unfortunately, erectile dysfunction is often one of the medical problems a man with diabetes faces. ED is more likely to occur if you have diabetes (type 1 or type 2). 5. Heart disease, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol are associated with erectile dysfunction. Your doctor may want to examine your heart if you are experiencing ED without any other health problems. 6. Several health problems are associated with tobacco use, including erectile dysfunction. As a result of tobacco use, your blood flow decreases throughout you. 7. Erectile dysfunction can be caused or contributed to by a number of medications, both prescription and over-the-counter. A number of antidepressants, acid reflux medications, blood pressure medications, antihistamines, and opioid pain medications fall into this category. 8. An erection can be difficult or painful if the prostate is chronically inflamed or if there is prostate cancer in the prostate. If you have known prostate problems and experience ED, speak to your doctor right away. 9. Infections of the prostate gland can sometimes be caused by certain STIs, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, untreated HIV, and viral hepatitis. It is possible that you will experience symptoms of ED if this happens. 10. Hair loss, insomnia, low sex drive, and erectile dysfunction are all symptoms of low T. The lower your testosterone level, the more symptoms you may experience.