ED is defined as a man having trouble getting or maintaining an erection for sexual intercourse. Some men have trouble maintaining an erection for more than a short period of time and others cannot get an erection at all. Erectile dysfunction can be frustrating at any age, especially when you are younger and not expecting it. You may have questions about why this is happening to you. We will review all the causes and symptoms so you know if it is a sign of a larger problem.
“What are the Statistics for ED in Younger Men?”
Erectile dysfunction is typically more common as you age, but it can happen at any age. As many as 30 million men within the United States have ED. Based on research, about 8% of men aged 20-29 have erectile dysfunction. Other research shows that for each decade older you are increasing the chance of developing erectile dysfunction.
“What are the Causes of Erectile Dysfunction”
Whether you have experienced erectile dysfunction in the past or are currently experiencing symptoms, you will want to know what could be the cause. You may think with ED the issue is with your penis but chances are that is not the case. An erection is a complex response that involves your brain, nerves, muscles, hormones, and circulatory system. ED can be impacted by one or more underlying factors.
Psychological Causes
For most younger men, psychological issues are typically the cause for their erectile dysfunction. This may not be the case for all men, but these are possible reasons you may be experiencing ED. These underlying issues can be some of the easier ones to fix as well.
Some of the psychological reasons are:
- Anxiety – Performance anxiety can occur when you put too much pressure on yourself to do well in a particular situation.
- Depression – Having poor self-esteem or overall not feeling well can mean your body isn’t performing as well as it could.
- Medications – Many prescription medications have side effects that can make it more difficult to gain and keep an erection.
- Relationship Troubles – Getting into an argument, loss of trust, or a lack of intimacy can make it more difficult when trying to engage in sex.
- Stress – Whether it is job, money, or other stress it can affect your mental outlook and the rest of you as well.
- Substance Use Disorder – Taking too much of anything can be a bad thing, especially alcohol or recreational drugs. Each one has their own side effects but most are depressants which can make it harder to get an erection.
Physical Reasons
Some men may have trouble getting or maintaining an erection due to a physical injury or medical condition. These are quite serious and should be taken as such. Oftentimes, ED can be one of the first signs of one of these underlying conditions. That is why it is important to get a proper diagnosis for your erectile dysfunction to know the cause and not just treat the symptom. Viking Man can be an option for you to get convenient, professional diagnosis in the comfort of your own home.
- Diabetes – Having higher levels of blood glucose in your body can cause damage to your blood vessels, which can lead to ED.
- Heart Problems – Getting and maintaining an erection requires proper blood flow. When your circulation is diminished it can cause many problems.
- High Blood Pressure – Similar to the issues associated with heart problems, high blood pressure can decrease your proper blood flow.
- High Cholesterol – High cholesterol can cause buildup in the arteries which narrows your blood vessels and decreases blood flow.
- Hormonal Disorders – Low testosterone or thyroid issues can contribute to erectile dysfunction and several other issues.
- Lack of Physical Activity – If you aren’t physically active, your blood flow is slower within your body which can make it harder to get pumping and flowing correctly when you need it.
- Overweight or Obesity – Being overweight or obese can come with their own health risks and concerns that can affect your whole body.
- Penile Injury – Injuries to the penis can be temporary or have lasting effects, depending upon the injury.
“How Is ED Diagnosed in Young Men?”
The best way to help treat erectile dysfunction at age 20 is to reach out to a medical professional. Your doctor can check your medications, listen to your symptoms, and run any further testing that they deem necessary. If you don’t have a trusted doctor you can talk with, you may want to check into telehealth alternatives. Viking man is a great option with affordable, convenient, and discreet treatment options. Although it may be tempting to find something over the counter to take and fix your erectile dysfunction, that is not advised as you could be putting yourself at greater risk for other health issues.
“Can Erectile Dysfunction be Cured at a Younger Age?”
Yes, once your doctor determines the underlying cause of your ED in your twenties, it can be treated and most often completely cured. Sometimes the remedy is as simple as lifestyle changes, such as eating healthier, exercising more, quitting smoking, or reducing alcohol intake. Other men may need counseling or medication to help their erectile dysfunction. In a small percentage of men, surgery can be an option after other alternatives have failed to provide help. Your doctor can discuss all the options available to you based on the reason behind your erectile dysfunction.
“What are Common Erectile Dysfunction Treatments?”
There are a number of erectile dysfunction medications and treatment options available to you. You can take oral medication, topical medication, patches, injections, and more.
Oral Medication for ED
The most common medications and often the first step is to try oral medication.
Pill Options:
- Avanafil (Stendra)
- Sildenafil (Viagra)
- Tadalafil (Cialis)
- Vardenafil (Staxyn, Leevitra)
Injections for Erectile Dysfunction
Injections are placed into the base of the penis 5-20 minutes prior to sex. There is a limit on how frequently they can be used and how many times per week depending upon the type of injectable prescribed.
Injection Medications:
- Alprostadil (Caverject, Edex)
- Trimix (Phentolamine, Papaverine)
Testosterone for ED
Men who have low testosterone may need testosterone therapy, which is a way to increase their testosterone. Your doctor will know the best treatment and application you need.
Available Testosterone Treatments:
- Gels
- Injectable Solutions
- Patches
- Oral Medication
Vacuum Constrictive Devices for ED
Vacuum constrictive devices can be a safe and effective option if other medications aren’t effective or taking medication isn’t an option. This treatment involves placing a cylinder over the penis and creating a vacuum inside. The vacuum/suction causes an erection and a band is usually placed around the base of the penis to maintain the erection. To ensure no damage is done to the penis the band must be removed around the 30-minute mark.
Surgery for Erectile Dysfunction
There are two different surgery options, vascular surgery or penile prosthesis. These should only be considered as a last resort. As with all surgeries, there are risks that should be taken into account prior to going under the knife.
On a Final Note
Although having erectile dysfunction in your twenties may be uncomfortable to discuss with your doctor, that is your best option for finding the cause and ultimately treating your ED. It is possible for you to have trouble getting or maintaining an erection once or twice, but if it becomes a regular problem you will need to reach out and get evaluated. Viking Man may be able to help you with their licensed medical professionals, you can reach out and get evaluated for $5. This makes it not only a convenient but affordable option. Making small changes may also be beneficial, so be sure to discuss all your concerns with your doctor to ensure you get properly treated. Fixing the problem now can help save you from later troubles so don’t delay reaching out.
Some Other Concerns You May Have
“Can erectile dysfunction cause infertility?”
ED is not directly linked to infertility in men. Male infertility is caused by low sperm count, sperm abnormalities, or blockages preventing the sperm from being delivered. However, men with erectile dysfunction may not be able to have productive intercourse that can result in pregnancy. Treating erectile dysfunction may be all that is needed to ensure pregnancy. If ED is treated and pregnancy is still not happening then further testing may be needed to check the man’s sperm, along with testing for female infertility as well.
“Is erectile dysfunction a sign of prostate cancer?”
No, erectile dysfunction is not a sign of prostate cancer. More often, treatments for prostate cancer can cause erectile dysfunction but having erectile dysfunction first does not mean you have or will have prostate cancer. To help ease your mind, you can get evaluated by a medical professional today by Viking Man.
