Impotence or erectile dysfunction (ED) is a serious sexual health problem in men. It is the condition where men are unable to achieve or maintain firm erection needed for satisfying sexual intercourse. The term impotence may also be used to describe other problems associated with men's sexual health, such as decreased libido and problems with ejaculation or orgasm.

ED is one of the most common sexual health problems and affects around more than 50% of men between the ages of 40 and 70. In fact, ED becomes more common and severe as men ages but the various studies made on the subject has revealed that most men face the challenge of ED at some point of their life and it is a medical condition and not just a process of aging.
ED is treatable but men do not feel free to seek medical assistance to treat it, but the awareness towards it is increasing and more men are seeking help and regaining their lost sexual strength.

Usually, the most common cause of ED is damage to nerves, arteries, smooth muscles, and fibrous tissues. 70% of ED is reported due to physical ailments like diabetes, kidney disease, chronic alcoholism, multiple sclerosis, atherosclerosis, vascular disease, and neurologic disease. Excessive alcohol intake, obesity and smoking are other vital aspect that causes ED.

Health experts believe that psychological factors like stress, guilt, low self-esteem and sexual failure anxiety can cause ED in men and medicines for blood pressure, antihistamines, antidepressant, tranquilizers and appetite suppressant can cause ED as a side effect.

As far as the treatment is concerned, physicians mostly suggest the lifestyle change like quitting smoking and reducing alcohol intake, losing excess weight and increasing physical activity may help some men regain their normal sexual life. If you are taking some other medicines that can cause ED, you can ask your doctor for alternative drugs.

Next option is the use of anti-ED drugs. These drugs can be taken orally, injected into the penis or inserted into the urethra. Cialis, is a common anti-ED drug which has been approved by U.S. Food and Drug Administration.