Why Can't I Get or Keep an Erection?

How About My Age?

Aging doesn't cause ED, but the problem is more common in older men. About 4% of guys in their 50s and almost 17% in their 60s are unable to get erections, according to the National Institutes of Health. About half of men older than 75 are affected.

Treatments can help men of any age.

What Can I Do?

Experts agree: If you smoke, stop. Get your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels under control. Then talk to your doctor about your options.

ED medications -- sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), and vardenafil (Levitra) -- can usually help whether your problem is performance anxiety or poor blood flow.

Self-injections, vacuum devices, and squeeze pumps implanted under the skin are other options to boost your response.

If your testosterone is low, replacement therapy may help, though it won't necessarily solve the ED.

Counseling can help you work through any relationship or emotional troubles you may be facing.