How Long Can Erectile Dysfunction Symptoms Last?

Any man can experience difficulty with erections from time to time as a result of a number of factors. In some cases, overindulging in alcohol can cause acute difficulty with erections, while psychological stress may also affect erections situationally. For some men, however, erectile dysfunction (ED) symptoms may become more obvious, persistent, and even chronic over time. Here, board-certified urologists Drs. Ahmad and Ali Kasraeian of Kasraeian Urology in Jacksonville, FL outline why ED symptoms can come and go, when you should call your doctor about ED symptoms, and what treatment options you have for acute or chronic ED.

What causes ED?

There are a multitude of contributing factors that can lead to difficulty with erections, ED, and other forms of male sexual dysfunction. In fact, ED is commonly diagnosed as a multifactorial condition, meaning there is more than one issue that is contributing to the patient's symptoms. Technically speaking, difficulty with erections can be attributed to poor blood flow to the penis, which is normally responsible for creating firm erections. When blood flow is inhibited, the patient may have difficulty achieving or maintaining an adequate erection. However, there are many factors that can lead to the development of ED. Some of the most common risk factors for ED in men include:

• Cardiovascular disease
• Hypertension
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Age
• Hormone imbalance (low testosterone)
• Trauma or injury
• Peyronie's disease
• Psychological distress
• Alcohol or drug use

Why does ED come and go?

If you are experiencing symptoms of ED sometimes but not all the time, you may have situational ED related to a temporary psychosocial or potentially physical factor — like stress, fatigue, or alcohol use. In other cases, men may notice a gradual onset of ED with age. This can start out with mild or intermittent problems with erections that eventually progress to worsening and/or more consistent ED symptoms.

Can ED get better on its own?

For men whose erectile and/or sexual function problems are related to an acute, reversible cause — like situational stress or drug use — discontinuing the behavior or addressing the underlying issue often results in a return of normal erectile function. For patients with chronic ED or an underlying health condition — like high blood pressure or low testosterone — that is causing their symptoms, treatment may be necessary to improve their erections. This may mean treating the underlying cause of their ED, their ED itself, or both.

When should I call my doctor for ED?

If you notice that your ED symptoms are becoming more severe, longer-lasting, or occurring more and more often, don't hesitate to call your doctor or urologist. Not only will this give you the opportunity to address your ED symptoms and restore more adequate sexual function, but your provider can also help you understand whether any serious health conditions or factors may be contributing to your ED that need to be addressed.

How is ED treated?

Based on your unique personal factors, preferences, ED symptoms, health history, and more, Dr. Kasraeian will recommend the most appropriate and effective ED treatment plan possible for you. We are proud to offer a comprehensive range of ED treatment options, including medications, minimally invasive treatments, surgical procedures, and others, to meet the diverse needs of our patients. We will also work with you to address any dietary, lifestyle, or behavioral factors that may be contributing to your ED to help you regain appropriate sexual function and restore the sexual wellness you deserve.

Weak erections getting in the way of your life? Discover your ED treatment options in Jacksonville, FL

If you are experiencing any change in your erectile function or sexual wellness, whether it's once in a while or all the time, you may benefit from an evaluation to determine the cause of your symptoms and find out whether you may need treatment for ED and/or an underlying health condition. For more information on ED solutions available to you, call our caring team at Kasraeian Urology to schedule your discreet consultation with either of our Jacksonville, FL board-certified urologists, Dr. Ali Kasraeian and Dr. Ahmad Kasraeian, today.