Erectile Dysfunction and Your Health: 5 Things You Need to Know

Despite the fact that most guys would rather not talk about it, erectile dysfunction is surprisingly common. Over 30% of males between the ages of 40 and 70 have trouble getting or maintaining an erection.

Man reading a document and showing concern
Men frequently consider erectile dysfunction, or ED, to be a psychological problem. However, a study suggests that underlying vascular (blood vessel) problems are the most typical cause of ED. Because of these underlying problems, men may also be more susceptible to other serious medical conditions.

Here are 5 things you need to know about ED and your health.

Erectile Dysfunction and Heart Disease Are Connected

Coronary heart disease is brought on by plaque formation in the arteries, which affects blood vessel function and reduces blood flow to the heart. Healthy blood flow is also necessary for erectile function. Additionally, a number of blood pressure-lowering medications can make ED worse.

Erectile Dysfunction Can Be an Early Warning Sign

One of the earliest phases of coronary heart disease is endothelial dysfunction, a problem where the blood vessels are unable to dilate (open) adequately. Endothelial dysfunction typically manifests first in the blood vessels of the penis. The first indication that something is awry is frequently an ED. Erectile dysfunction frequently signals an underlying heart issue, according to Blaha.

Erectile Dysfunction Is Linked to Diabetes, Too

Additionally, Type 2 diabetes and ED are tightly related. High blood sugar levels can harm the neurons and blood vessels necessary for erectile function. Nearly half of all males in a study conducted by scientists at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health also experienced ED.

It’s Important to Connect the Dots

Having ED can be uncomfortable. Many men fail to mention it, not even to their doctor. Contrarily, Blaha claims that men who go see a doctor could be too obsessed with their discomfort in the bedroom to mention other unsettling symptoms. “Too many men fail to recognize symptoms of heart disease like shortness of breath or chest pain.” If you have ED, talk to your doctor about getting screened for risk factors such high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease, especially if you have other symptoms.

See this article for details on the causes of Men Health.