Erectile dysfunction in 20s is a problem that is more likely to occur with age. This happens because, with age, the testosterone levels drop. However, erectile dysfunction can also occur in young men like those in their 20s due to various factors. Proper coordination between the nerves, blood vessels, muscles, and hormones is required to stay erect. If there are any issues with any part of this network, erectile dysfunction can occur.
An Overview of Erectile Dysfunction
Men with erectile dysfunction have trouble getting or keeping an erection for sexual activity. In some instances, some men may find it difficult to hold their erection for long, while in some cases; they may not be able to get an erection at all. Although erectile dysfunction is commonly seen in older men, it can also happen to males in their 20s.
Common misconceptions about ED and age
One of the most common misconceptions about erectile dysfunction and age is that it is commonly seen in men over the age of 70. However, that is not true. Erectile dysfunction can occur in any male, regardless of their age. While ED is common in older men, it can also affect men in their 20s and 40s.
Importance of understanding ED in younger men
It is essential to understand ED in younger men to ensure proper measures are taken. This is also essential as ED can have an impact on the patient’s mental health. A study conducted in young men revealed that about 8% of men between 20-29 years of age may have some form of erectile dysfunction.
Prevalence of ED in Young Adults
A study conducted in the year 2013, published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, showed that the researchers found ED affected 26% of adult males who were younger than 40 years old. It was also found that the reason behind younger males being more likely to have ED was due to smoking or the use of illegal drugs.
Another study from 2017 found that the estimated prevalence of erectile dysfunction in young men was as high as 30%.
Risk Factors Contributing to ED in the 20s
There are various causes of ED, which include neurological, psychological, and lifestyle-related factors. ED may also occur in some patients as a side effect of certain medications. Various risk factors can lead to erectile dysfunction in 20s or in younger males. These risk factors of erectile dysfunction in the 20s include the following,
Psychological factors and emotional factors of ED
Our brain plays a vital role in triggering the various physical events that can lead to an erection, such as starting the feeling of sexual excitement. Many things can also interfere with sexual feelings, making it challenging to become erect or maintain an erection. The psychological factors that affect erectile dysfunction or make it worse include the following:
Read More: How to Beat Psychological Erectile Dysfunction
Physical factors of ED
In many cases, the patient may experience erectile dysfunction due to an underlying physical cause. Some of the standard physical courses of erectile dysfunction include the following:
Relationship factors of ED
Erectile dysfunction can be affected due to relationship factors like communication issues and a lack of sexual experience.
Communication issues
Communication issues like performance, anxiety, ongoing fights or arguments, lack of emotional connection, and misunderstandings are some of the common factors of communication issues that can cause ED.
Lack of sexual experience
A male having limited sexual experience may feel anxiety and insecurity during sexual intercourse. Additionally, a lack of knowledge can also cause trouble in maintaining an erection. Unlimited experiences can also give rise to unrealistic expectations, which can cause or worsen ED.
Impact of ED on Quality of Life
The impact of erectile dysfunction on emotional and physiological aspects is connected deeply with relationships and societal perceptions. These factors, when combined, affect the condition much more.
Emotional and Psychological Effects
Having trouble getting or keeping an erection can have a big effect on your self-esteem. Many times, sexual abilities are directly associated with masculinity. Hence, most men feel insecure when they experience erectile dysfunction. Psychologically, erectile dysfunction can lead to anxiety, stress, and even depression in some cases, thereby affecting the quality of life.
Relationship Dynamics
Communication with the partner with utmost honesty about one’s sexual needs is Important. Relationship dynamics, such as partner’s response and proper communication, are essential factors when dealing with erectile dysfunction.
Societal Stigma and Misconceptions
Society often associates masculinity with sexual performance. This unnecessary social and cultural expectation can worsen erectile dysfunction, making it difficult for a man. Additionally, the stigma surrounding treating Ed can also prevent men from getting the right healthcare solutions.
Treatment Options for Erectile Dysfunction
The different ways to treat erectile dysfunction depend on what’s causing it. Hence, a proper diagnosis is essential to determine which treatment option works best for ED. Some of the different ways to treat erectile dysfunction are listed below:
Lifestyle changes
Changing the way you live can help with erectile dysfunction. You can consult a healthcare provider for guidance on the right lifestyle changes. The typical lifestyle changes for ED treatment include,
Diet and exercise
A healthy balance between diet and regular exercising, such as strength training, walking, or jogging, helps improve blood flow. This, in turn, makes it easy to get long-lasting erections and maintain hardness for longer.
Reducing alcohol and tobacco use
Alcohol and tobacco not only worsen erectile dysfunction but also the overall health of the body. Alcohol and nicotine found in tobacco can cause damage to the blood vessels, negatively influence the hormones that are required for sexual desire and performance, and cause erectile dysfunction. Cutting down on tobacco and drink use can help men get and keep an erection.
Psychological therapies
As psychological factors can also impact ED, it is crucial to seek psychological therapy to improve confidence and address the psychological causes of ED.
Counseling and therapy
Psychotherapy and counseling are important ways to help people with ED. Therapy helps by addressing critical issues such as misunderstandings, performance anxiety, relationship issues, stress, anxiety, and depression.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
Cognitive behavioral therapy is a type of therapy that works by helping people change the way they behave or think. It helps address mental health problems like anxiety and depression. CBT is also been studied and has been shown to have helped patients with ED.
Medical treatments
Oral medications
To treat ED, your doctor may prescribe oral medications such as Fildena 100(Sildenafil), Vilitra 20(Vardenafil), Kamagra Oral Jelly(Sildenafil), Vidalista 60(Tadalafil), Cenforce 120(Sildenafil), etc. While these medications are safe, discussing their possible risks and side effects with your doctor is best.
Other medical treatments
Your doctor may also prescribe other medical treatments for ED besides oral medications.
Vacuum devices work by creating suction around the penis. This suction is created by a mechanical or electronic pump that makes an erection by drawing blood to the penis.
They work by stopping blood from getting to the penis by wrapping around its base. With this in mind, ED rings help keep an erection going.
Alternative treatments
Alternative treatments can help with ED. However, these alternative treatments for Ed don’t have proper studies to support them. Hence, seeking proper advice from a healthcare provider before starting these treatments is important. Some common alternative treatments for ED include,
When to Seek Help
If you are experiencing erectile dysfunction in a lot of your sexual experiences during a few weeks, then it may be a sign of an underlying condition. Seek expert help if your ED lasts for over a few weeks.
It is essential to discuss ED with your healthcare provider to ensure you get properly diagnosed for the problem that might be causing ED and get the proper treatment and guidance.
Conclusion
Erectile dysfunction can occur due to poor lifestyle, stress, and other health conditions. While in most cases, older males experience ED, it can also happen to males in their 20s and40s. ED can cause stress and pressure and can worsen mental health. However, getting proper medical advice and treatment from a doctor for ED is essential.