Erection problems can be caused by physical or psychological factors.

Physical causes are more common in older men and can result from medical conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity. Certain medications, substance abuse, and trauma or injury to the spinal cord or genital region can also cause erection problems.

Psychological causes include emotional issues such as worry over not being able to achieve or maintain an erection, relationship conflicts, and depression.

Younger men may also experience erection problems, which have more to do with their lifestyle and mental health than with any physical problems.

Diagnosis of erection problems may involve tests such as a complete blood count, hormone profile, nocturnal penile tumescence, duplex ultrasound, and urinalysis.

Once the cause of the problem is determined by a doctor, appropriate treatment can be provided.