How serious is erectile dysfunction?

Your sexual health is inextricably linked to your general health. It is always advisable that a man sees his health practitioner if he finds that he has any trouble with achieving erection. While erectile dysfunction can be prevented or even reversed, it can be a symptom of a more serious health issue.

Because it is caused by problems with blood vessels, erectile dysfunction actually serves as an early warning of life-threatening conditions resulting from cardiovascular disease. It is said that 11% of men with erectile dysfunction will experience some form of cardiovascular event, (a stroke or heart attack) within five years. Understanding the several connections between erectile dysfunction and the health of your heart can help you to recognise signs and symptoms of heart disease early on.

While it may not feel like it at the time, being diagnosed with erectile dysfunction can be a piece of good fortune in that it alerts your doctor to possible heart problems. And, of course, early treatment will dramatically increase your chances of overcoming cardiovascular disease and save your life. So, what are the risk factors you should look out for?

Atherosclerosis is a build-up of plaque in the arteries which can restrict the blood flow to your heart, legs and brain. It also affects blood-flow to your penis. And when blood doesn’t sufficiently fill your penis, you will not be able to achieve an erection.

A high level of what is known as ‘bad’ cholesterol will contribute to atherosclerosis in the blood vessels. Smoking raises the risk of developing atherosclerosis. Men who smoke will experience an increased risk of a heart attack and are almost twice as likely to develop erectile dysfunction. High blood pressure is also a risk factor. It can lead to damage in the lining of arteries and accelerates atherosclerosis.

Men with diabetes are more likely to experience erection problems. The reason for this is that the blood vessels that supply the penis can partially close up due to diabetes-related damage. Recent studies have shown that men with diabetes who also have erectile dysfunction are at an even higher risk of cardiovascular disease than those who don’t.

Weight is an issue as well. Heart disease and associated erectile dysfunction will more often affect overweight men.

There is evidence that men suffering from depression experience an increased risk of heart problems and erectile dysfunction. If you are depressed, it is important that you speak to your doctor to make sure you’re getting the right treatment. Although treating depression can also help with erectile dysfunction, some antidepressants may have an affect on a man’s sexual health.

Certain medication that is used to treat heart disease can also cause you to experience problems achieving erections. It is also worth bearing in mind that some medications prescribed for erectile dysfunction are not safe when used in combination with several heart medicines. You shouldn’t stop taking medication prescribed to you, but you can of course speak to your doctor about the possibility of being prescribed another drug that will not affect your ability to get an erection.