In recent years, there have been many studies showing a strong correlation between ED and heart disease. Some studies even show that men suffering from this condition are more likely to also have poor cardiovascular health.
Here’s what Erectile Dysfunction (ED) treatment specialists have to say about how this condition is somehow connected to having heart disease.
What is Erectile Dysfunction?
Erectile Dysfunction (ED) or impotence is the inability to achieve and sustain an erection suitable for sexual intercourse. Having erection trouble from time to time isn’t necessarily a cause for concern. However, if it’s an ongoing issue, it can affect your self-confidence or even cause stress to you and your partner. Now, there’s even more cause for concern because of the very strong link between erectile dysfunction and a slew of heart diseases.
Cardiovascular Disease and Erectile Dysfunction
For a couple of years, many research studies have been conducted on the apparent connection between ED and heart disease. Most of them found that a man with a severe case of ED could be a marker for increased risk of stroke, heart attack, or even death within three to five years of the ED diagnosis.
Back then, there was still limited evidence that supports this notion. However, a 2013 study published by the Sax Institute may have definitively confirmed those suspicions. In the study, it was found that men with erectile dysfunction have a higher risk of being admitted to hospital due to cardiovascular issues, even if they have no history of heart problems. This is likely due to how erectile dysfunction can indicate problems with blood vessels and poor blood flow.
In addition, the lead researcher found that it also happens to be the first study to show that even mild erectile dysfunction might be a warning sign of heart disease. This makes it all the more important for men suffering from any degree of erectile dysfunction to get a heart check-up.
How Does ED Lead to Heart Problems?
The hardening of the arteries is a normal part of the aging process for any person. But if this was combined with an unhealthy lifestyle and lack of exercise, it could lead to more serious complications. Erectile Dysfunction could very well be a primary symptom of cardiovascular disease. This basically means that ED might just be the first indication of heart disease. When this happens, you might want to consult with a medical professional as soon as you can. Men’s Health Clinic has licensed doctors available countrywide that can deliver the proper help and support you need to treat your condition.
Erectile Dysfunction as a Symptom of Heart Disease
Those studies only show how serious ED is and how it could lead to more severe aftereffects than just psychological and social consequences. Patients who have been diagnosed with ED should be aware of the potential implications of the condition, so they can take the necessary steps to prevent it from leading to severe heart complications.
Conclusion
Having ED is actually a good predictor that a man will probably have heart disease symptoms within five years. In fact, compared to smoking or a family history of heart problems, ED is much a risk factor as those two conditions. If you’re experiencing symptoms of ED, get yourself checked right away and get the help that you need.
You don’t have to suffer in silence and let sexual dysfunction control your life. Men’s Health Clinic can help you with your problem. Our male clinic offers tailored, and effective treatment plans to cater to your needs. Contact our Doctors today to treat Erectile Dysfunction (ED).
References:
Ibrahim, A., Ali, M., Kiernan, T. and Stack, A., 2018. Erectile Dysfunction and Ischaemic Heart Disease. European Cardiology Review, 13(2), p.1.
Banks, E., Joshy, G., Abhayaratna, W., Kritharides, L., Macdonald, P., Korda, R. and Chalmers, J., 2013. Erectile Dysfunction Severity as a Risk Marker for Cardiovascular Disease Hospitalisation and All-Cause Mortality: A Prospective Cohort Study. PLoS Medicine, 10(1), p.e1001372.
ABC News. 2021. Heart disease linked to erectile dysfunction. [online] Available at: <https://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-01-30/erectile-dysfunction-linked-to-heart-disease/4490524?nw=0> [Accessed 15 June 2021].
Cleveland Clinic. 2021. Erectile Dysfunction & Heart Disease. [online] Available at: <https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15029-heart-disease–erectile-dysfunction> [Accessed 15 June 2021].