“Do I have ED?” is a frequent question people search for online. Erectile dysfunction can be a daunting diagnosis for many men. Our culture often ties identity, self-worth, and confidence to sexual performance, so even a single off night can cause significant anxiety.

But how can you determine if you have ED? What should you look for?

Experiencing an occasional issue with achieving or maintaining an erection doesn’t necessarily mean you have erectile dysfunction (ED), and it’s important not to stress over rare instances. However, if it’s happening regularly, it’s something you shouldn’t ignore.

ED can sometimes be a symptom of underlying medical conditions or mental health issues. Delaying seeking medical advice can put your health at risk.

If you’ve noticed signs of ED, such as trouble maintaining an erection during sex or having less firm erections than before, keep reading.

We’ll discuss how to identify if you have ED, outline four key signs and symptoms, and provide guidance on what to do if you suspect you may have this condition.

How Do I Know If I Have Erectile Dysfunction? 4 Key Signs

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common issue that affects approximately 52% of men in the U.S. between the ages of 40 and 70. It’s not limited to older men, either—ED can also occur in younger men. Many avoid seeking help until the condition impacts their relationships and quality of life. So, how do you know if you have ED? Here are four signs to watch out for:

1. You Can’t Get Fully Hard

One of the most obvious signs of ED is an inability to achieve a full erection. You might be able to get partially erect, but not enough to engage in sexual intercourse. This can happen when the blood flow to the penis is insufficient or cannot be maintained. Normally, arousal sends signals from the brain that cause blood vessels in the penis to dilate, allowing blood to flow into the corpora cavernosa—two long chambers in the penis—resulting in an erection. If this process is disrupted, achieving a full erection becomes difficult.

2. You Lose Your Erections

Losing your erection during sex is another sign of ED. It’s one thing to get an erection, but maintaining it throughout sexual activity is crucial. If you can’t sustain your erection long enough to reach orgasm, you may be experiencing ED. Sometimes, the issue is psychological—stress, anxiety, or fear of sexual performance failure can cause you to lose your erection. While it’s normal to occasionally lose your erection due to distractions or stress, a consistent pattern could indicate a deeper problem.

3. Reduced Interest in Sexual Activity

A decreased interest in sex can be both a cause and a symptom of ED. You might avoid sex because of past failures or the fear of not being able to perform, which can lead to low self-esteem and further reduce your libido. Hormonal changes, such as low testosterone levels, can also contribute to a diminished sex drive. If you’re noticing a significant drop in your sexual desire, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause.

4. Painful Erections

An erection should be pleasurable, not painful. Pain during an erection can be caused by conditions such as Peyronie’s disease (penile curvature), complications from a penile implant, or priapism (a prolonged, painful erection). Painful erections can discourage sexual activity, affect sexual function, and may indicate serious urological issues. If you experience painful erections, consult a healthcare provider to rule out conditions like prostate cancer or vascular problems.

What Age Does ED Usually Start?

Although ED is more common after the age of 40, it can happen to men in their 20s and 30s. Lifestyle factors, mental health issues, and physical conditions can all contribute to early-onset ED. Learning more about the causes and potential risk factors can help you understand your own situation better.

Can ED Develop Suddenly?

ED typically develops gradually, worsening over time if left untreated. However, certain factors can cause sudden difficulties in getting an erection, including:

• Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Drinking too much can impair your ability to achieve and maintain an erection.
• Illicit Drug Use: Drugs can interfere with normal sexual function.
• Stress and Anxiety: Mental health plays a significant role in sexual performance.
• Relationship Issues: Emotional conflicts can impact your sex life.
• Medication Side Effects: Some medications can cause ED as a side effect.
• Physical Injuries: Trauma to the genital area can lead to erectile difficulties.

If any of these factors apply to you, speak with your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms and potential treatments.

Common Risk Factors for ED

Several medical and lifestyle factors can increase the risk of developing ED, including:

• High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
• High Cholesterol
• Atherosclerosis (Plaque Build-Up in Arteries)
• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Mental Health Issues (Depression, Anxiety)

The good news is that many of these risk factors can be managed with lifestyle changes, medication, or a combination of both.

Is It ED or Something Else?

It’s sometimes hard to distinguish ED from other sexual health issues. You might not have ED but could be experiencing related problems like:

• Low Libido: A decreased interest in sex.
• Premature Ejaculation (PE): Ejaculating soon after sexual activity begins.
• Delayed Ejaculation: Taking a long time to achieve orgasm.
• Anorgasmia: Inability to orgasm or ejaculate.

While occasional issues are normal, persistent problems should be discussed with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action.

Can I Test for ED at Home?

While there’s no definitive home test for ED, the Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM) is a quick questionnaire that can help you assess the likelihood of having ED based on your symptoms. However, it’s still best to consult with a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

What Should You Do If You Think You Have ED?

If you’re experiencing symptoms of ED, your next step should be to consult a healthcare professional. They can offer a range of treatments, including:

• Oral Medications: Prescription drugs like Viagra® (sildenafil), Cialis® (tadalafil), Levitra® (vardenafil), and Stendra® (avanafil) can improve erectile function.
• Lifestyle Changes: Improving your diet, exercise routine, and stress management can have a significant impact on ED.
• Address Mental Health Issues: Therapy can help manage performance anxiety, sexual trauma, or depression, which may be contributing to your ED.

Final Thoughts: How to Know If You Have ED

ED can be a sensitive and challenging issue to deal with, but it’s important to seek help if you’re experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Occasional issues with erections don’t necessarily mean you have ED. Consistent problems are a better indicator.
• Don’t ignore persistent symptoms. ED can be a sign of other serious health issues, such as cardiovascular disease or diabetes.
• There are many effective treatments available, from oral medications to lifestyle changes and therapy. Early intervention can make a big difference in your sexual health and overall well-being.

If you’re still unsure whether you have ED or want to know more about treatment options, consider scheduling an online consultation with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and support.