The Wellness Collective

The Truth About Erectile Dysfunction: Causes, Myths, and Real Solutions

Reviewed by Adam Gardner, Licensed Pharmacist & COO of TelyRx

A man reviewing ED treatment options online.

Table of Contents

Think ED only affects older men? Here’s something that might surprise you: one in four men with erectile dysfunction are under 40.

Despite how common it is, ED remains one of the most misunderstood health issues out there. Stigma and embarrassment create silence. Misinformation breeds confusion. And both create barriers to accessing reliable solutions. 

Let’s change that. This guide will separate the facts from the fiction, explore what’s really causing your symptoms, and outline the treatments that actually work – from lifestyle adjustments and natural remedies for ED, to proven medications that have helped millions of men.  

common ED myths, debunked

ED: "Myths vs. Reality"

Myth 1: ED is all in your head. 

Reality: Sure, your brain plays a role in arousal, but most ED has physical roots. Heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and even sleep apnea are common culprits because they affect both blood flow and nerve function.   

Myth 2: Morning erections mean you can’t have ED. 

Reality: Waking up with an erection is a good sign of healthy blood flow and nerve function, but it doesn’t mean you’re entirely in the clear. Performance anxiety or stress can still interfere during sex. Your body responds differently when you’re relaxed and alone versus when you’re with a partner and feeling the pressure. 

Myth 3: Gas station supplements are a quick fix. 

Reality: The “male enhancement” aisle is a minefield. Most products are unregulated, unproven, and sometimes downright dangerous. And they often contain hidden ingredients that can interact badly with other medications. The only reliable path is FDA-approved treatment, prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider. 

Myth 4: ED is a sign you’re not attracted to your partner. 

Reality: This myth causes real pain in relationships. ED is usually a mechanical issue involving blood flow, hormones, nerves, or psychology. It has virtually nothing to do with how attracted you are to your partner. Making sure your partner understands this can actually bring you closer together.   

Myth 5: Watching porn causes ED. 

Reality: The science here is complicated.  Research shows little evidence that pornography use, in and of itself, directly causes erectile dysfunction. However, if you feel guilt or shame about your porn use, or if you prefer it over sex with a partner, that conflict can contribute to erectile difficulties. If you’re concerned porn might be affecting your performance, consider taking a break and talking with a healthcare provider.  

Myth 6: ED will just go away on its own. 

Reality: It might, especially if it’s purely stress-related. But persistent ED can be an early warning sign of something more serious, like cardiovascular disease. Think of it as your body’s check engine light. It’s worth investigating rather than ignoring. 

Myth 7: ED medications are dangerous or addictive. 

Reality: Medications like Sildenafil (generic Viagra®) and Tadalafil (generic Cialis®) have been helping men for over 25 years. They’re not addictive, they don’t create physical dependency, and they don’t permanently change how your body works. They simply help to direct blood flow where it needs to go when you’re aroused. As with any medication, a licensed healthcare provider can help determine if these options are a good fit for you, but the fear that they’re dangerous is unfounded for most men. 

Now that we’ve tackled some of the most common myths, let’s talk about what causes erectile dysfunction. 

what's actually causing it?

A man taking charge of his health through TelyRx's secure platform.

Understanding the root cause is key to finding the right solution. ED generally stems from three main sources: 

  • Physical causes are the most common. Anything that affects blood flow or nerve function can lead to ED, including high blood pressure, heart disease, high cholesterol, obesity, diabetes, and low testosterone. 
  • Psychological factors matter more than you might think. Sexual arousal starts in your brain, and stress (work, money, life in general), depression, and anxiety can all block the signals your body needs for an erection. 
  • Lifestyle habits play a huge role. Smoking damages blood vessels. Excessive drinking impairs performance. A poor diet clogs arteries. And lack of exercise contributes to many of the physical causes listed above. 

performance anxiety vs. physical ED

Here’s a quick self-check that can help you understand what’s going on: Do you wake up with erections? What about when you’re alone and relaxed, or just randomly throughout the day?    

If the answer is yes, there’s a good chance it’s more about your mind than your body. 

Performance anxiety is weirdly specific. You might be totally fine flying solo, but the moment there’s another person involved, your brain starts running a highlight reel of everything that could go wrong.   

And here’s the catch: worrying about your erection is one of the fastest ways to lose it. Anxiety kicks your nervous system into fight-or-flight mode, sending blood flow to your muscles and away from your penis. Your body responds as if you’re dealing with a crisis at work or swerving to avoid an accident, not about to have sex.  

So what can you do in the moment? Here’s something that helps some men: Instead of trying to force an erection through willpower or worry, focus on the sensations you’re experiencing – touch, connection, pleasure. Your body responds naturally when your mind gets out of the way.  

The really good news about performance anxiety is that it’s highly treatable. Medication eliminates the worry and gives you greater access to the present moment, which is often enough to break the cycle completely. 

Physical ED differs from performance anxiety in that it shows up even when the pressure is off, when you’re alone, relaxed, and genuinely in the mood. That’s your signal that something biological might be at play. Fortunately, many of these underlying physical causes respond well to lifestyle changes that are easy to implement.  

lifestyle changes that actually make a difference

Two friends on a walk.

Here’s where you have real control. These foundational changes to your daily routine can make a significant difference:  

  • Move your body. Cardiovascular exercise improves circulation everywhere—including where it matters most for erections. It also helps with weight management, reducing your risk for diabetes and heart disease. Aim for 30 minutes of walking a day to start. 
  • Eat for your arteries. It turns out that what’s good for your heart is also good for your erections. A Mediterranean-style diet that’s rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, and olive oil helps keep arteries healthy and clear. Recent research from the University of Granada suggests that a plant-based diet may be particularly powerful for preventing or improving ED. Meanwhile, processed foods, excessive sugar, and trans fats do the opposite by promoting inflammation, clogging arteries, and impairing circulation.  
  • Quit smoking and vaping. Cigarettes and e-cigarettes are both terrible for erectile function. Nicotine constricts blood vessels, restricting blood flow throughout your body, including to the penis. Many men notice improvement within just weeks of quitting. 
  • Moderate your alcohol. A drink or two is fine, but heavy drinking on a regular basis can contribute to persistent ED. 
  • Prioritize sleep and stress management. Chronic stress and poor sleep disrupt both your hormones and nervous system. Even small improvements, like getting 7-8 hours of sleep or devoting 10 minutes daily to stress reduction techniques, can have a significant impact. 

when you need more than lifestyle changes

Lifestyle improvements can make a real difference, but they don’t always solve the problem entirely. If you’ve made changes and are still struggling, or if you just want a solution that works right now, medication is a proven and highly effective option. 

the most effective treatment available

Pharmacists filling orders at one of TelyRx's licensed pharmacies.

The medications you’ve probably heard of—Sildenafil (generic Viagra®) and Tadalafil (generic Cialis®)—are known as PDE5 inhibitors, which work by improving blood flow to the penis when you’re sexually aroused. They don’t create an erection on their own, but they make it significantly easier for your body to respond when you want it to. 

  • Sildenafil is typically taken 30-60 minutes before sex and lasts about 4-6 hours. 
  • Tadalafil can be taken as needed (works for up to 36 hours) or as a low daily dose for ongoing support.

Both are FDA-approved, safe for most men, and generic ED medication is now widely available at highly affordable prices. Best of all, they’re effective for about 70% of men with ED, regardless of the underlying cause. 
Starting at $24.99

Sildenafil

Sildenafil is a medication used to treat erectile dysfunction.

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Starting at $29.99

Tadalafil

Tadalafil (Cialis) is a medication used to treat erectile dysfunction.

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Starting at $59.99

Vardenafil

Vardenafil (Levitra®) is a medication used to treat erectile dysfunction. Vardenafil has a short half life compared to other PDE5 inhibitors (Viagra®, Cialis®).

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erectile dysfunction treatment online: zero awkwardness

You don’t have to wait for an appointment with your regular doctor or stand in line at the pharmacy to get help. Digital platforms like TelyRx have made the process fast and straightforward: a board-certified physician evaluates your situation, prescribes U.S.-sourced, FDA-approved medications if appropriate, and ships them directly to your door from our licensed pharmacies.  

No awkward conversations, no insurance hassles, and no subscription requirements. You get the same medications you’d get from your regular doctor or corner pharmacy, just with a whole lot more convenience and privacy. 

when ED signals something more serious

In some cases, ED can be an early warning sign of heart problems—think of it like a check engine light for your cardiovascular system. 

Here’s why: The most common physical cause of ED is atherosclerosis, where arteries narrow due to plaque buildup. Erections require strong blood flow, which only happens when arteries are open and flexible. When arteries are clogged, blood flow suffers everywhere. 

Because the arteries in the penis are smaller than those feeding your heart, they can show signs of blockage earlier. That’s why ED sometimes appears before more serious cardiovascular problems like heart attacks or strokes. 

It’s important to note that this is primarily a concern for men over 40 or those with risk factors like diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol. For younger men, ED is usually related to psychological factors, lifestyle habits, or temporary issues rather than heart disease. 

That said, it’s important to see a doctor if: 

  • Your ED is accompanied by chest pain, shortness of breath, or fatigue 
  • It appeared suddenly 
  • It persists for several months despite lifestyle changes 

the bottom line

Erectile dysfunction is incredibly common and highly treatable. It has nothing to do with your masculinity or your attraction to your partner. It’s a medical condition, plain and simple. It might be situational, or it might be signaling an underlying health issue that needs attention. 

The worst thing you can do? Ignore it and hope it goes away. 

The best thing you can do? Take action. That might look like adjusting your habits, having a candid conversation with your partner, or addressing any underlying health issues. But for most men, proven medications like Sildenafil or Tadalafil offer a fast, effective solution that’s worked for millions. 

The reality is, you don’t have to figure this out alone. Help is available, effective, and now just a few clicks away. 

 

Disclaimer

This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The content provided here is not a substitute for professional medical advice, consultation, or care from a qualified healthcare provider. Always seek the guidance of your physician or another licensed health professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Do not disregard or delay seeking professional medical advice based on information read on this site. Learn more about our editorial standards here.

Don’t let ED get you down. TelyRx can help. 

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