Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common men’s health condition where a man has difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection firm enough for sexual activity. It can be a sensitive topic, but it’s important to know that you’re not alone. Many men experience ED at some point in their lives. The good news is that ED is highly treatable, with effective medical and physiotherapy options available to help restore confidence, performance, and overall well-being.
Erectile Dysfunction
Make an AppointmentWhat is a Erectile Dysfunction?
Symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction
- Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection
- Reduced sexual desire or libido
- Incomplete or short-lived erections
- Anxiety or stress related to sexual performance
- Relationship strain due to sexual difficulties
These symptoms can vary depending on whether ED is caused by physical or psychological factors. If the symptoms are ongoing for more than a few weeks, it’s important to seek medical evaluation.
Causes of Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction can result from a combination of physical and psychological factors.
Physical Causes:
- Cardiovascular diseases (heart disease, hypertension, atherosclerosis)
- Diabetes or insulin resistance
- Hormonal imbalances, including low testosterone
- Nerve damage (due to surgery, injury, or neurological disorders)
- Obesity and metabolic syndrome
- Medication side effects (especially antidepressants or blood pressure drugs)
- Smoking, alcohol, or substance use
Psychological Causes
- Stress, anxiety, or depression
- Relationship problems
- Performance anxiety or low self-esteem
In the past, ED was often believed to be purely psychological, but research shows that over 80% of cases are linked to physical causes, often intertwined with emotional stress.
Since ED can sometimes be an early sign of heart disease or diabetes, medical evaluation is essential.
When to See a Doctor
You should consult a doctor if:
- You consistently experience difficulty maintaining an erection
- You notice a loss of sexual desire
- You have chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or high cholesterol
- You’re concerned that ED may be affecting your relationship or self-confidence
At Subang Jaya Medical Centre (SJMC), our Men’s Health Physiotherapy team provides a safe, supportive environment to address ED comprehensively, empowering men to take charge of their health and well-being. Contact our Rehab Department at 03-5639-1591 (Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM) to learn more or to schedule a consultation.
FAQs About Erectile Dysfunction Symptoms and Causes
Erectile dysfunction is the inability to achieve or maintain an erection firm enough for satisfactory sexual activity. It can occur occasionally, but persistent ED often indicates an underlying physical or psychological issue that needs medical evaluation.
No. While ED was once thought to be mainly psychological, research now shows that over 80% of cases are linked to physical causes such as poor blood flow, nerve injury, or hormonal imbalance. However, psychological stress can still worsen the condition, so both aspects are often treated together.
Yes. The pelvic floor muscles play an important role in maintaining erections and controlling ejaculation. Weakness in these muscles can lead to erectile difficulties, premature ejaculation, or even mild urinary leakage. Strengthening them through pelvic floor physiotherapy or Kegel exercises can significantly improve erectile function and confidence.
Yes. Emotional stress, performance anxiety, or relationship tension can interfere with the brain’s ability to trigger the physical process that causes an erection. In such cases, combining physiotherapy with counselling or stress management often yields the best results.
In most cases, yes. With appropriate treatment including physiotherapy, K-Laser therapy, pelvic floor training, or medication.
Physiotherapy targets the physical root causes of ED, byimproving blood flow, tissue healing, and muscle strength.
Yes. ED is one of the most common men’s health conditions, affecting men of all ages. It’s not a sign of weakness or failure and with today’s medical and physiotherapy options, it is highly treatable.