Erectile Dysfunction at a Young Age: Should You Be Concerned?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is generally a term associated with men over the age of 40. Recently, the focus has been on the growing number of cases in younger men. It has been estimated that ED occurs in up to 26% of the male population under the age of 40.

Erectile Dysfunction at a young age does not necessarily mean there is an irreversible problem or that your sexual function has declined. It is important to understand the underlying causes of ED in order to determine when to seek medical help.

What Causes Erectile Dysfunction in Younger Men?

When the body isn’t able to adequately process the various physical, psychological, and emotional aspects of the sexual response cycle, ED may occur.

Psychological Triggers

Anxiety and depression can adversely affect one’s sexual desire and function. Performance anxiety can lead to an inability to maintain an erection. Often men become so focused on performing that they forget to enjoy the process, which then becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy.

Erectile Dysfunction at a young age is psychologically reversible if the root cause if anxiety and stress are dealt with. Often times seeking medical help to address the root cause of ED can improve sexual function.

Physical Health Conditions

Erectile Dysfunction can be caused by limited blood flow. Conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and others can restrict the blood flow and may contribute to Erectile Dysfunction.

Obesity can increase the risk of diabetes and other cardiovascular diseases. It can also affect the blood flow and the overall health of the body which can cause Erectile Dysfunction.

Low testosterone can also cause Erectile Dysfunction. Though it is not as common, it can occur in young males and should be evaluated.

There are some daily activities that can impact overall health and increase the risk of ED. These activities can also influence the risk of other health conditions and should be evaluated.

Lifestyle Factors That May Increase ED Risk

Certain everyday habits can increase the risk of developing health conditions which can cause ED. These can include:

• Leading a sedentary lifestyle
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Tobacco use

To improve your sexual health, you can improve your general health by doing the following:

• Following a healthy diet
• Losing weight if overweight
• Doing regular exercise
• Limiting alcohol
• Managing stress

There is research which suggest the use of pornography can affect sexual function and may cause ED. One reason suggested is the desensitization to stimuli. However, there are many other possible reasons for ED and excessive pornography use should not be considered the primary reason for ED.

Can Erectile Dysfunction at a Young Age Be Treated?

Erectile Dysfunction at a young age can be treated by treating the root cause. This can include changing your lifestyle or seeking treatment for conditions that can cause ED. Psychological conditions can also be treated.

Certain aspects of cardiovascular health improve most with regard to lifestyle and health conditions. Following your doctor’s advice for diabetes or hypertension management, for example, may improve your sexual function.

For stress or anxiety related issues including ED, consider speaking with a counselor.

In some instances, ED may be treated with medication. Prior to taking any medications, speak with your doctor to rule out other possible causes and to determine if there are potential drug interactions.

When to See a Doctor About Erectile Dysfunction

ED is usually not a permanent condition. Generally, you should see a doctor if:

• Erections do not occur or become very rare.
• It is difficult to keep an erection.
• ED has negatively impacted your self-esteem and relationships.
• ED is occurring as a result of a condition that is making your heart work harder (high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, etc.)
• You are feeling high levels of stress, anxiety or depression.

There are several possible solutions to this problem. You should first try to alter your lifestyle to include more exercise, nutrition and stress management. Ed can also be caused by a hormonal imbalance. You may want to consult a professional if you have exhausted these solutions.

Reclaiming a Healthy Sex Life

Erectile Dysfunction at a young age does not mean your sex life is going to be Unsatisfactory for the rest of your life. It means it is time for you to take control of your health and address the factors that may be impacting your health and quality of life.

Supporting your cardiovascular health by exercising and by eating nutritious foods can help your sexual health as well. So can maintaining a healthy body weight, managing stress, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol use.

Don’t let embarrassment stop you from talking to your health care provider if you have concerns about your sexual health. Often, your health care provider can diagnose and treat the condition, but first the health care provider must find the cause of your symptoms.

Final Thoughts

If you have Erectile Dysfunction at a young age, that doesn’t mean your sexual days are over. ED can be caused by stress and anxiety. Diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other conditions can also cause ED.

If ED becomes a concern, you should talk to a health care provider to have a physical exam to rule out other conditions. ED can also be a sign of other conditions.

The best course of action is to see a health care professional to help alleviate your symptoms and get a diagnosis. It is always better to be safe than sorry.

• Mayo Clinic – Erectile Dysfunction: Symptoms and Causes
  
• Mayo Clinic: Penis Health
• Mayo Clinic: Erectile Dysfunction and Heart Health