Erectile dysfunction and heart disease are linked
ED is common among men with coronary artery disease, says Michael J. Blaha, MD, MPH, a cardiologist at Johns Hopkins University and director of clinical research at the Ciccarone Center for Heart Disease Prevention.
Coronary artery disease occurs when plaque builds up in the arteries, reducing blood flow to the heart and impairing the function of blood vessels. Healthy blood flow is also necessary for erectile function. In addition, some high blood pressure medications may contribute to ED.
Erectile Dysfunction Can Be an Early Warning Sign
One of the early stages of coronary heart disease is endothelial dysfunction, a condition in which blood vessels cannot dilate (open) properly. Endothelial dysfunction often affects the blood vessels in the penis first. In many cases, ED can be the first clue that something is wrong. “Erectile dysfunction is often a sign of underlying heart disease,” says Blaha.
Erectile dysfunction is also linked to diabetes
ED is also closely linked to type 2 diabetes. High blood sugar can damage the blood vessels and nerves that control erectile function. A study by researchers at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found that nearly half of the diabetic men studied also suffered from ED.
It’s important to connect the dots
ED is embarrassing. Many men don’t mention it, even to their doctor. Meanwhile, men who do see a doctor may be so focused on stress in the bedroom that they don’t mention other worrying symptoms, says Blaha. “Too many men ignore symptoms of heart disease, like shortness of breath or chest pain.” If you have ED, especially if you notice other symptoms, ask your doctor to test for risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease.
Lifestyle choices matter
“A lot of things have to do with the cardiovascular system,” Blaha said, “and controlling some of those risk factors can make a big difference.”