HomeAnswersInternal Medicinesexual healthI am a 24-year-old male having difficulty in achieving and maintaining an erection. I also smoke and drink. Am I having erectile dysfunction?

What causes lack of morning erections and difficulty in achieving an erection in a 24-year-old?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

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Published At October 28, 2023
Reviewed AtOctober 28, 2023

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am a 24-year-old man, and I have noticed changes in my sexual health that are worrying me. Normally, I used to have morning erections, which I understand are related to the REM phase of sleep. However, for some time now, I have stopped having these morning erections altogether. In addition to that, I have noticed that even with a partner, I need stronger stimulation to achieve and maintain a good erection. Before, a simple kiss would be enough, but now it takes more effort. I am wondering if this could be a sign of erectile dysfunction (ED) or if it is just something not very significant.

I should also mention that I have a drinking problem, and I tend to drink a lot, mostly beer, which has been going on for the past five years. Additionally, I smoke, though I do not use drugs.

I am concerned about this issue and want to know if there are any treatments that do not involve medications. Are there lifestyle changes I can make, such as exercise or adopting a healthier diet, that could potentially improve my sexual health?

Thank you.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern about the changes you have been experiencing in your sexual health. Considering your weight of 242 pounds and the fact that you are dealing with chronic alcoholism and smoking, it is highly likely that these addictions are contributing to the issue.

To address this problem, the first and most crucial step I would suggest is to quit alcohol and smoking completely. These habits can have a significant negative impact on sexual function. It is essential not to resort to unethical or non-standard ways to stimulate your penis for obtaining an erection. Such methods can be harmful and counterproductive.

I suggest getting yourself checked, and a blood sugar monitoring test can be a good starting point. By monitoring your progress and making the necessary lifestyle changes, we can expect to see improvement in your sexual health over the next few months. At this stage, medication may not be necessary.

Hope this helps you.

Thanks and regards

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Patil Pratik Pramod
Dr. Patil Pratik Pramod

Medical oncology

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