Erectile dysfunction (ED) is something many men go through — and it’s more common than you might think. It can happen at any age, and while it’s more frequent in older men, it’s not just a problem for people over 50. The important thing to know is that it’s treatable.

ED means having trouble getting or keeping an erection firm enough for sex. It can be caused by stress, medical conditions, lifestyle habits, or a mix of factors. A one-off issue isn’t a big deal, but if it keeps happening, it’s worth talking to a doctor.

Why ED Happens

There’s no single cause. Sometimes it’s physical — like poor blood flow, low testosterone, or side effects from medication. Other times it’s linked to mental health, like anxiety or relationship tension. Things like smoking, lack of sleep, alcohol, or high stress can make it worse.

It’s frustrating, but it’s also fixable.

What You Can Do — Treatment Options by Age

Your age and health history can influence which treatments work best. Here’s what’s commonly recommended at different stages of life:

In Your 20s or 30s:

  • Look at lifestyle: Smoking, drinking, poor sleep, and stress all play a role. Cleaning up your habits often helps.

  • Mental health matters: If anxiety or stress is in the mix, therapy or counseling can make a big difference.

  • Medication: If needed, drugs like Viagra or Cialis are commonly prescribed and work well for many men.

In Your 40s or 50s:

  • Still start with meds: Oral medications often remain the first step.

  • Check hormones: Low testosterone becomes more common in this age range. Blood tests can help spot it.

  • Other options: If pills don’t work, injections or vacuum pumps can be used before sex to improve blood flow.

In Your 60s and beyond:

  • Medications can still work: Doses may be adjusted depending on your health.

  • Advanced options: Penile implants or shockwave therapy are alternatives for men who haven’t had success with meds or devices.

Talking to Your Doctor

Many men hesitate to bring up erectile dysfunction, but doctors hear about it all the time. Don’t wait. The sooner you talk, the sooner you can find a solution.

Your doctor will likely ask about your symptoms, lifestyle, and medical history. They might run blood tests or a physical exam to rule out other conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or hormone issues.

Finding the Right Treatment

There’s no universal fix. What works for you depends on your health, goals, and what’s causing the problem.

If you’re young and otherwise healthy, you might only need oral medication. If you’ve tried that and it didn’t help, or if you can’t take pills for medical reasons, there are other ways — like penile injections or vacuum devices.

For older men or those with more complex health issues, implants or newer treatments like low-intensity shockwave therapy might be better options.

Lifestyle changes can also go a long way: quitting smoking, losing weight, exercising, and managing stress can all improve ED.

Quick FAQs

How common is ED?

Very. It affects millions of men worldwide, and chances go up with age.

What causes it?

Common causes include heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, low testosterone, stress, and anxiety.

How is it diagnosed?

Your doctor will review your symptoms, medical history, lifestyle, and may order tests to find the cause.

What are the main treatments?

  • Oral medications (Viagra, Cialis, etc.)

  • Hormone therapy if testosterone is low

  • Injections or suppositories

  • Vacuum pumps

  • Penile implants

  • Lifestyle changes

Does insurance cover ED treatment?

It depends on your plan. Some insurance covers medications or devices, but not all do. You’ll need to check with your provider.

Can ED be improved naturally?

Yes — stop smoking, drink less, get regular exercise, manage stress, and eat well. These all support better blood flow and hormone balance.

When should I see a doctor?

If ED is frequent, lasts more than a few weeks, or is affecting your relationship or confidence — book an appointment.

Let’s Talk

At Boost Health Clinic, we offer safe and effective ED treatments tailored to your needs. Our team will help you understand your options and guide you through the process.

If you’re ready to take the next step, we’re here to support you. Don’t let ED control your life — there’s a solution that fits you.