Erectile dysfunction (ED) is common and treatable. If you’re struggling to get or keep an erection, you have clear options—from pills to devices to lifestyle fixes. This page gives straightforward, usable information so you can know what to ask your doctor and what to try first.
First-line treatment is usually oral PDE5 inhibitors. These include sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), vardenafil (Levitra) and avanafil (Stendra). They help by increasing blood flow to the penis. Take them as directed: sildenafil and vardenafil an hour before sex, tadalafil can be taken daily or as needed, and avanafil works faster for some men.
These drugs are safe for many people but dangerous if you take nitrates for chest pain—combining them can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure. Common side effects are headache, flushing, and nasal congestion. If pills don’t help, a doctor may suggest injections of alprostadil into the penis or a small urethral suppository; both directly cause an erection and often work when pills don’t.
Vacuum erection devices are simple: a tube creates a vacuum around the penis and a ring holds the erection. They’re non-drug and work reliably for many men. Penile implants are a surgical option when other treatments fail; modern implants are discreet and have high satisfaction rates.
Don’t overlook lifestyle changes. Losing weight, quitting smoking, cutting back on alcohol, improving sleep, and regular exercise can boost erectile function. If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol, keeping those conditions under control matters a lot for sexual health.
Low testosterone can cause low libido and contribute to ED. A simple blood test can check levels; if low, testosterone replacement might help—but only after discussing risks and benefits with your doctor.
Psychological factors are common. Stress, anxiety, relationship issues, and performance pressure often play a role. Short-term therapy, couples counseling, or sex therapy can unlock improvements, sometimes without changing medications.
Be cautious buying medication online. Use licensed pharmacies, check for a physical address, and never buy drugs without a prescription. Fake products can be ineffective or dangerous. If cost is a concern, ask about generic sildenafil or tadalafil and check discount programs.
When to see a doctor? Get help if ED is new, happens often, or comes with chest pain, fainting, or sudden vision changes. Your doctor will review your health, medications, and may run tests like blood sugar, lipid panel, and hormone levels to find the cause.
ED isn’t a life sentence. With the right approach—medical, mechanical, and lifestyle—you can usually find a reliable solution. Talk honestly with your healthcare provider about what matters most to you and the tradeoffs you’re willing to accept.
Small tip: track what helps. Keep a simple log of medication timing, food, alcohol, and how well you performed. That info makes follow-up visits faster and helps your doctor tune treatments. Most men see improvement within weeks when they pair medicine with healthier habits. Be patient and persistent.
If Cialis isn't the right fit for you, several alternative treatments for erectile dysfunction could be worth considering. From Alprostadil suppositories to Tadalafil, each alternative offers its own pros and cons. This article delves into seven options, helping you weigh the benefits and drawbacks. Discover which treatment might be the best match for your needs and lifestyle.