Erectile Dysfunction: What It Is, The Symptoms, and How to Treat It

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is something that becomes increasingly more common as we age but data suggests that erectile dysfunction is also becoming increasingly more common among those in their 20s and 30s.

Types of ED

There are 3 types of ED, psychogenic, organic and mixed. More common causes of erectile dysfunction later in life can often be attributed to the organic types which includes common medical comorbidities such as obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, prostatic hypertrophy, etc. where treatment of these risk factors often aids in addressing the issue. Earlier in life we tend to see ED which falls into psychogenic and mixed types which ranges from conditions of “performance anxiety”, increased stress levels, poor diet and recreational drug use.

ED in Young Males

For young, relatively healthy males with issues getting, getting and maintaining erections or even painful erections there unfortunately is a lot of unanswered questions when serious medical pathology has been ruled out. This in many cases can lead to a negative feedback loop that can become increasingly more difficult to break. With this increasingly popular issue among young males we have started to see an increase in online ED aids which while may address the issue in the short term can actually lead to more issues and more frustration later down the line.

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

If any of the above resonate with you, know there are more options out there that you can discuss with your pelvic health physical therapist. A lot of issues related to ED can manifest in physical impairments that alongside management of stress, anxiety, and other lifestyle factors can be addressed and lead to more productive management of ED symptoms. Dealing with symptoms and don’t know where to start? Schedule a free phone consultation with our Men’s Pelvic Health Specialist.