But, there are times when ED is only temporary and the ability to achieve anerectioncan be restored.
The symptoms may be erratic or persistent depending on the underlying cause.
Oftentimes, there will be multiple overlapping causes.
Verywell / Ellen Lindner
These short-term forms can be broken down into two groups:situational EDandtemporary ED.
In other cases, a sexual interaction may spur unexpected emotions that dampensexual arousal.
At other times still, a person may not have any idea why an erection is difficult.
Being overworked, having a stressful lifestyle, or usingdrugsoralcoholcan cause or contribute to situational ED.
There are many lifestyle risk factors that can influence ED.
Temporary ED tends to be ongoing rather than sporadic.
Recap
Situational ED is mainly due to psychological issues and can change with different partners or circumstances.
Temporary ED tends to be persistent but can improve with positive lifestyle changes.
The diagnosis may involve a doctor known as aurologistwho specializes in male sexual health.
If the symptoms are situational, the focus may be placed more on counseling and psychotherapy.
If the symptoms are persistent, a greater focus may be placed on lifestyle changes.
This alone can increase blood flow to the penis.
Coping
Erectile dysfunction can be distressing even if it only occurs every now and then.
Therefore, it is important to find ways to reduce stress and anxiety to avoid making ED worse.
It’s a “Catch-22” situation wherein ED causes stress and stress causes ED.
It may occur depending on the situation or be ongoing but reversible.
A healthcare professional can diagnose erectile dysfunction, determine the cause, and direct treatment.
Drugs, lifestyle modifications, and treating underlying causes may be recommended.
If erection problems are frequent or have occurred suddenly for no reason, speak with your doctor.
Ignoring the problem rarely helps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Being sick can cause temporary ED if it makes you fatigued.
Certainurinary tract infectionscan lead toprostatitis(inflammation of the prostate)a condition that can directly cause ED.
It’s possible depending on the underlying cause.
Psychogenic causes such as anxiety or stress can often be resolved with counseling.
Drug-induced ED may improve by changing medications.
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