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How to Know If You Have ED: Signs and Symptoms

Written by Maria Maureen Ablen

Published 03/09/2025

Updated 03/24/2025

Erectile dysfunction, or ED, is a condition that many men experience at some point in their lives. While occasional difficulty getting or maintaining an erection is normal, persistent issues can be a sign of an underlying problem.

Many men delay seeking treatment until ED starts affecting their relationships or self-confidence. However, ED can also be an early indicator of other health concerns, making it important to recognize the signs and take action.

If you have been noticing changes in your erections, lower interest in sex, or other related symptoms, this guide will help you understand what ED is, what causes it, and what steps to take if you think you might have it.

What Are the Signs of Erectile Dysfunction?

ED affects an estimated 52 percent of men between the ages of 40 and 70, but it can also occur in younger men. The most common signs include:

• Difficulty achieving a full erection

• Losing an erection before or during intercourse

• Decreased interest in sexual activity

• Painful erections

If you are wondering whether you have ED, understanding these symptoms in more detail can help you determine whether it is time to seek medical advice.

Difficulty Achieving a Full Erection

One of the most noticeable signs of ED is struggling to get fully hard. Some men may still get partially erect but find that their erection is not firm enough for penetration.

An erection occurs when blood flow increases to the penis, filling two chambers called the corpora cavernosa. If blood flow is restricted or the blood does not stay trapped in these chambers, maintaining an erection can be difficult.

Issues with circulation, nerve function, or hormones can contribute to this problem, as can psychological factors like stress or anxiety.

Losing Your Erection During Sex

Another common sign of ED is difficulty maintaining an erection once it has been achieved. Some men may be able to get fully erect but struggle to stay hard during intercourse.

Losing an erection occasionally due to distractions, fatigue, or stress is normal. However, if this happens frequently, it could indicate ED.

Performance anxiety and mental stress can also cause erection problems, especially if you start to worry about losing your erection while having sex.

Decreased Interest in Sexual Activity

A lower sex drive can be linked to ED, as the fear of not being able to perform may lead to avoidance of sexual activity. However, a decrease in libido can also be caused by:

• Hormonal imbalances, such as low testosterone

• Psychological factors, including depression or anxiety

• Relationship issues

• Certain medications

If you have noticed a significant drop in your interest in sex along with erection difficulties, a healthcare provider can help determine if an underlying condition is contributing to the problem.

Painful Erections

Erections should not be painful, so if you experience discomfort, it could indicate a medical issue. Conditions such as Peyronie’s disease, which causes a curvature of the penis, or priapism, a prolonged and painful erection, can contribute to ED.

Other possible causes include infections, nerve damage, or scar tissue in the penis. If erections are painful, it is important to speak to a doctor as soon as possible.

At What Age Does ED Typically Start?

While ED is more common in men over 40, it can also occur in younger men. Stress, anxiety, and lifestyle factors such as poor diet, lack of exercise, and excessive alcohol consumption can all contribute to ED at any age.

Can ED Happen Suddenly?

ED typically develops gradually, but certain factors can cause temporary erection difficulties. These include:

• Excessive alcohol consumption

• Drug use

• Stress and anxiety

• Relationship conflicts

• Side effects of medications

• Fatigue

• Physical injuries

If your ED symptoms appeared suddenly, reviewing recent lifestyle changes or new medications with a doctor can help identify the cause.

Risk Factors for ED

Several health conditions and lifestyle factors can increase the risk of ED, including:

• High blood pressure

• High cholesterol

• Atherosclerosis (narrowed arteries)

• Diabetes

• Obesity

• Depression or anxiety

• Smoking

• Lack of physical activity

Addressing these risk factors through lifestyle changes or medical treatment can help improve erectile function.

Is It ED or Something Else?

Not all sexual performance issues are caused by ED. Other conditions that can affect sexual function include:

Low libido – A reduced interest in sex, which can be caused by hormonal imbalances or psychological factors

Premature ejaculation – Ejaculating shortly after sexual activity begins

Delayed ejaculation – Difficulty reaching orgasm even with sufficient stimulation

Anorgasmia – An inability to orgasm or ejaculate

If you are experiencing persistent issues, a healthcare provider can help determine whether ED or another condition is the cause.

What to Do If You Think You Have ED

If you are experiencing ED symptoms, several treatment options are available. The first step is to speak to a healthcare provider, who may recommend:

• Oral medications – Prescription treatments like sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), vardenafil (Levitra), avanafil (Stendra), or combination options like Peak, which contains sildenafil, tadalafil, and vardenafil, can improve erectile function by increasing blood flow to the penis.

• Addressing underlying health issues – ED can be linked to conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and hormone imbalances, which should be treated

• Exploring psychological factors – Anxiety, depression, and performance-related stress can contribute to ED. Therapy or counseling may be helpful

• Making lifestyle changes – Regular exercise, a healthy diet, quitting smoking, and managing stress can all improve erectile function

Final Thoughts

Experiencing occasional erection difficulties is normal, but if you frequently struggle to get or maintain an erection, it may be time to seek professional advice.

A one-time issue due to alcohol consumption, stress, or fatigue is usually not a cause for concern. However, persistent ED can affect confidence, relationships, and overall well-being.

If you are experiencing symptoms such as difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection, reduced sexual desire, or painful erections, consulting a healthcare provider can help identify the cause and explore treatment options.

ED is treatable, and seeking help early can improve both sexual performance and overall health.

Maria Maureen Ablen

Dr. Maria Maureen Ablen is a board-certified medical professional with a strong background in clinical care, healthcare innovation, and academic research. She is dedicated to advancing health and wellness through evidence-based practice and compassionate care.