10 Underlying Health Conditions That Cause ED

According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), roughly 30 million men experience erectile dysfunction in the United States. Making ED a very common condition among males. While the condition can be caused by a variety of factors, these are ten underlying health conditions that are known to contribute to its development. For some of these, just changing your diet and exercise habits could be the key to higher performance in the bedroom. 

Cardiovascular Disease

Cardiovascular disease refers to a group of conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. These conditions can cause the arteries to narrow, reducing blood flow to the penis and making it difficult to achieve or maintain an erection. Men with cardiovascular disease are also more likely to have other risk factors for ED, such as high blood pressure and diabetes. 

To prevent ED caused by cardiovascular disease, it's important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, eat a balanced diet and exercise regularly. We know, it can be easier said than done. A great way to get started is by setting small, achievable goals that you can build upon.

For example, increasing your daily water intake or limiting the amount of times you eat out in a week. Doing a food swap is great too! Switch red meat with leaner meats like chicken and replace some of your excess carbs with leafy greens and vegetables. When making any health or dietary changes, it’s always a good idea to consult a provider beforehand.

Diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body processes sugar. Men with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing ED because the condition can damage blood vessels and nerves that control erections. Managing diabetes through diet, exercise and medication can help reduce the risk of ED. 

If you have diabetes and are experiencing ED, it's important to talk to your doctor about treatment options and find the best care plan.

Obesity

Obesity is a condition characterized by excess body fat and is often the result of poor diet and exercise. This can also be accompanied by other risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and heart disease. 

It is a contributor to ED because it can increase inflammation in the body and damage blood vessels. These damaged blood vessels then make it harder to maintain an erection. Losing weight through diet and exercise can help improve erectile function in men who are overweight or obese. If you're struggling with obesity and ED, it's important to talk to your doctor about a healthy weight loss plan.

High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a condition that can damage blood vessels and reduce blood flow to the penis. Hypertension is usually defined as blood pressure above 140/90. This can make it difficult to achieve or maintain an erection when in the bedroom. To prevent ED caused by high blood pressure, treatments typically include a healthier diet with less salt, exercising regularly and taking medications (like diuretics).

Medication fact: Viagra was originally developed by Pfizer to treat hypertension and angina pectoris (chest pain due to heart disease). During its clinical trials, researchers found the drug was more effective at producing erections than treating angina. 

High Cholesterol

High cholesterol is a condition characterized by elevated levels of cholesterol in the blood. This condition can be inherited but is often the result of unhealthy lifestyle choices. High cholesterol can contribute to the development of ED by clogging the arteries and reducing blood flow (there’s a theme here) to the penis. Much like the others, managing high cholesterol through diet, exercise and prescribed medication can help reduce the risk and effects of ED.

Peyronie's Disease

Peyronie's disease is a condition characterized by the development of scar tissue in the penis. It can be caused by minor injuries or trauma to the penis, creating the troublesome scar tissue. This scar tissue can cause the penis to bend or curve during an erection, making it difficult to maintain. There are a variety of treatments available for Peyronie's disease, including medication and surgery.

Often your doctor will perform a physical exam in order to identify the scar tissue. Typically, ultrasound tests are commonly used to get a more internal look at the penis in order to determine causes and see any potential scar tissue.

Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic condition that affects the nervous system. It’s characterized by vision loss, pain, fatigue and impaired coordination. It can cause nerve damage that can make it difficult to achieve or maintain an erection. There are a variety of treatments available for ED caused by multiple sclerosis, including medication and therapy. It's important to notify your provider before starting any ED treatments to ensure the best care plan.

Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's disease is a progressive nervous system disorder that can cause tremors, stiffness and difficulty with movement. It can also cause nerve damage that can lead to ED. There are a variety of treatments available for ED caused by Parkinson's disease, including medication and therapy.

Depression

Depression is a mental health condition that can affect a person's mood, behavior and physical health. It can also cause ED by reducing sexual desire and making it difficult to achieve or maintain an erection. Treating depression through therapy, medication or a combination of both can help improve sexual function.

Stress and Anxiety

Stress and anxiety, similar to depression, can have a negative impact on sexual function, making it difficult to achieve or maintain an erection. Managing stress and anxiety through relaxation techniques, therapy or medication can help improve sexual function. 

Additionally, be open and honest with your partner about any stress and/or anxiety that might be affecting your intimacy. The initial conversation may be a little awkward at first but lean into this feeling. They can help release some of that tension by making you feel more at ease and offer alternative experiences that cause less stress or anxiety. 

How can Agile help with common conditions?

At Agile, we believe everyone should have access to excellent healthcare, regardless of where you are or when you need it. We offer convenient, virtual care across the U.S. for your most common medical conditions. Our network of providers are ready to address your unique concerns to deliver effective, personalized treatment in a timely manner. 

To tap into fast, cost-effective care now, schedule a consultation with one of our licensed clinicians!