You probably think of erectile dysfunction (ed) as a condition that mainly affects older men. But it can happen to men in their 20s and 30s, too. Some studies suggest that up to 30% of younger men deal with ed. You might assume that ed issues in younger men are just one-off events and that the problem will go away on its own. It’s true that having erection trouble every once in a while isn’t necessarily cause for concern, according to the mayo clinic. But that doesn’t mean guys under 40 should just accept erectile problems. Understanding why ed happens when you’re young can get you back on track in the bedroom.

Surgery for erectile dysfunction is usually only recommended if all other treatment methods have failed. It may also be considered in: younger men who have experienced serious injury to their pelvic area – for example, in a car accident men with a significant anatomical problem with their penis in the past, surgery was used if there was clear evidence of a blockage to the blood supply of the penis. The surgeon could unblock the blood vessels to restore a normal supply of blood. However, research now suggests that the long-term results of this type of surgery are poor, so it's unlikely to be used.

Symptoms of ED in Younger Men

Erectile dysfunction (ed) is likely the most difficult and sensitive topic a male patient will have to discuss with their doctor, especially for a patient in their 20s and 30s. The overall societal stigma and awkwardness placed on this condition can lower one’s self esteem and become a barrier to starting this conversation. Many young men with ed may feel it is impossible for someone their age to have these symptoms. However, approximately 20% of men in their 20s and 30% of men in the 30s suffer from at least mild to moderate symptoms of ed. Fortunately, as primary care physicians, we are fully prepared to have this discussion with our male patients and thoroughly investigate all medical/physical and psychological/emotional causes.

Treatment often begins with lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking (because tobacco causes narrowing of blood vessels) or taking steps to reduce cardiovascular disease risks, such as weight loss, exercise, and control of blood sugar and blood pressure, which can also improve the symptoms of ed. Medications such as cialis and viagra, which prevent an enzyme in the penis from causing erection loss, are sometimes prescribed. When medication is unsuccessful, external vacuum pumps that increase blood flow to the penis or self-injected penile medication that induces an erection may be recommended, although these are not popular options due to the advanced planning and lack of spontaneity involved.

Natural remedies for ed are increasingly available over the counter. But little, if any, scientific evidence suggests that they work. Also, some remedies can produce side effects or react negatively with medications. Before trying any over-the-counter treatment, it is important to consult a doctor. In addition, these natural remedies and supplements may actually worsen erectile function in the long term, even if help in the short term. It is also worth noting that they work differently from ed medications such as viagra and cialis, which do not affect function beyond the time that the medication is in effect. Read more about natural treatments for ed here.

Erectile dysfunction (ed) is the inability to get and maintain an erection that’s firm enough for sexual intercourse. Men who experience ed have decreased blood flow to the penis, which could be caused by many things from drug side effects to stress or high blood pressure. Here are the most common symptoms of ed: difficulty getting an erection reduced interest in sexual activity low self-esteem if these symptoms are present, a doctor may diagnose someone with ed. A doctor might also perform a physical exam and ask for a complete medical history. Ed may be a warning sign of more serious underlying medical conditions like cardiovascular disease, so a doctor might order blood tests to check for other medical problems.