Erectile dysfunction (ED), also referred to as impotence, is supposedly an old man's problem. However, things are evolving and more younger men are facing erectile difficulties.
ED can impact every part of a man's life and needs to be addressed promptly and comprehensively. In this article, we will talk about the reasons, symptoms, and treatments for ED in younger men.
Understanding Erectile Dysfunction - Everything you should know
Erectile dysfunction is the inability to attain or maintain an erection required for successful sexual intercourse. It is common for a man not to get an erection once in a while, but it indicates ED if it happens almost every time and for months at a stretch.
It makes it important to be aware of the differences between occasional sexual hardships and sexual dysfunction to get the required help.
Rise of ED in Younger Men
Mostly, older men begin facing issues with sexual performance due to age-related conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and low testosterone levels.
Studies suggest that ED affects a whopping 30% of younger men which speaks volumes about the increasing prevalence of erectile difficulties.
The massive increase is usually attributed to factors like lifestyle changes, mental health, and increased use of technology, to name a few.
Causes of ED in Younger Population
Let's take a quick look at the changing scenario regarding different aspects which might be the cause of increasing ED prevalence. These include -
- Psychological Factors - Mental health plays an equal role if not more than physical health when we talk about sexual relationships.
Various factors like stress, anxiety, depression, past sexual trauma, and performance anxiety can cause erectile issues.
- Lifestyle Choices - Most of the younger audience is leading a sedentary lifestyle. The lifestyle choices we make usually impact our mental as well as physical health.
Habits like smoking, excessive drinking, or drug use could be the reason behind sexual dysfunctions.
We live in a society where these habits are norms and we don't realize the damage it might be doing. Other factors like poor diet, lack of exercise, and obesity may also contribute to erectile dysfunction in younger men.
- Pornography Addiction - Easily accessible explicit content along with high-speed internet has paved the way to newer challenges. Many young men consume excessive pornographic content and develop unrealistic expectations of sex.
Watching porn takes over casual viewing and becomes a habit before one realises it. Studies highlight the role of triple-A which is accessibility, affordability, and anonymity can have adverse effects on sexual development and sexual functioning.
Men gradually become desensitized to normal sexual stimuli. There is a specific term known as "porn-induced ED" wherein a man faces difficulty in getting or maintaining an erection with a real-life partner.
- Medical Conditions - Facing health issues at a younger age is less likely to happen but is seen in some. Various health conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, hormonal imbalance, neurological disorders, and low testosterone levels can cause or exacerbate erectile dysfunction.
Additionally, some medications like antidepressants and blood pressure drugs can induce erectile issues in men.
- Relationship Issues - Sexual intimacy is the outcome of a happy relationship. Conflicts within a relationship can manifest in the form of physical difficulties during sex.
Lack of communication, infidelity, misunderstandings, and other issues can make two partners drift apart. It can ultimately impact one's relationship including physical intimacy.
Symptoms of ED in Younger Men
The symptoms of ED usually resemble the ones in older men and include -
Difficulty in achieving an erection despite sexual stimulation
Difficulty in maintaining an erection
Reduced sexual desire
Premature ejaculation
Delayed ejaculation
Performance anxiety
If you face these symptoms over a longer period, it is important to seek a medical opinion from an experienced sexologist.
Treatment Options for ED in Younger Men
The ED treatment in younger men specifically needs a thorough evaluation and figuring out the root cause in the first round.
The treatment usually needs a multi-faceted approach, that would address both physical and psychological aspects of the condition.
Below are treatment options -
- Lifestyle Modifications - One of the most common and effective ways to address the issue is adopting lifestyle changes.
These majorly include regular exercise and sticking to a balanced diet, which improves blood circulation, reduces stress, and improves hormonal balance.
Other than these, one should quit smoking and drink alcohol in moderation to avoid any harmful side effects. Leading a healthy lifestyle will improve physical health along with sexual benefits.
- Psychological Support - Most younger men face erectile issues due to psychological factors. For them, therapy can be highly effective in addressing these issues.
Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) specifically has shown promising results by working out negative patterns. If there are relationship conflicts involved, couples therapy can also come to the rescue.
- Medical Treatments - Medical interventions can be employed for ED in men if required. Various medications can improve erection in men along with other options like penile injections and vacuum erection devices.
If deemed necessary, your sexologist can recommend shockwave therapy or hormonal therapy as per your specific condition.
- Limiting Pornography Use - It is ideal to limit the consumption of pornography and get a hold of reality. If porn is the root cause, quitting the habit can improve or even reverse the erectile dysfunction.
The journey might be exhausting but it is possible to quit with willpower and a partner's support. With time, the brain rewires and one starts to respond to sexual stimuli. Talk to a therapist or sexologist, if you need more help.
- Open Communication - It is normal to shut the doors of communication if one partner is facing sexual difficulties. It is crucial to acknowledge the importance of open communication in times like these.
In such a difficult situation, being upfront and honest with your partner can save your relationship. You can take help and explore different ways to maintain intimacy while you work on rectifying erectile dysfunction.
Bottom Line
Erectile dysfunction in younger men is becoming increasingly common and requires immediate attention. The change in work timings, work culture, lifestyle choices, performance anxiety, and relationship conflicts, all could lead to a lack of intimacy.
It is important to be aware of the symptoms and seek medical attention to lead a healthy sex life yet again. Addressing ED early on would not only save your relationship but help you lead a better quality of life.
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