Erectile Dysfunction Predicts Heart Disease
I fully realize this is a website for women (empowHER) however, as a physician I know men are less likely to see a doctor and this is important. It turns out erectile dysfunction is a powerful indicator of heart disease such as heart attack and stroke.
Erectile dysfunction affects women too (they are often on the other end of the…stick) and it’s important to understand that some 18 million men are affected. If your man is having a difficult time achieving or maintaining an erection during sexual intercourse, he needs to see a healthcare provider as he has a 40 percent increased risk for heart problems.
Make sure he has his blood pressure checked and a fasting lipid panel (cholesterol) and glucose test.
In order to create an erection, a man’s hormones, muscles, blood vessels, and nerves must work synergistically together. The nerves signal down to the penis causing the muscles to relax so that blood can flow down and fill up causing a stiff erection.
If he has high cholesterol, then the vessels can fill with plaque limiting the erection. Elevated blood sugar also clogs the blood vessel. Other affecting factors include high blood pressure, alcohol, smoking, obesity, poor diet, nerve damage, certain medications and stress.
What can you do?
This can be a difficult topic to discuss however it is important that he sees a healthcare provider. Changing to a healthier lifestyle that includes significantly less fat and sugar while increasing whole grains and vegetables can be helpful. Routine exercise and weight loss also improves circulation and lowers risk factors. Make sure he doesn’t just ‘pop the little blue pill’ and instead gets a thorough work-up.
References:
Araujo A, et al. Does Erectile Dysfunction Contribute to Cardiovascular Disease Risk Prediction Beyond the Framingham Risk Score. J Am Coll Cardiol, 2010; 55:350-356.
We value and respect the experiences of all of our HERWriters, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.
Add a Comment3 Comments
Great info! Thanks for informing us… keep it coming. I’ve been using Ciallis, luckily I don’t encounter any problems with it. I strictly stick with my doctors advice – NO nitrates meds. You can see drug info of this pill at [website removed by EmpowHer Moderator]
February 8, 2010 - 8:13pmThis Comment
I'm 64 and divorced, and what can I say, I like to have fun. It's just that my doc won't prescribe me Viagra because of my heart.. says it's too risky. About a month ago I ordered a natural product called Virection which is heart healthy. I checked the ingredients with my doc. He said it's just like the other vitamins and dietary supplements I take so there's no problem. I can honestly say that my sex life has really improved. Thought I'd share that.
February 13, 2010 - 1:52amI always prefer virection male sex enhancement pill because it gives very good result.It boost sexual life and increase energy level and give full satisfaction.
February 25, 2010 - 11:20am