High Blood Pressure And ED
High blood pressure and ED are closely linked. There have been many studies which have shown men in certain age groups to experience erectile dysfunction while suffering from hypertension (high blood pressure). It has also been reported that the medication used to treat hypertension has actually generated erection issues.
How To Treat Your EDHigh blood pressure typically has no discernable symptoms, but men may notice its impact on their sex-life. High blood pressure and ED go hand-in-hand. While a lower sex drive won't necessarily affect long-term health, feeling unsatisfied in your sex life is a difficult challenge for anyone.
High blood pressure causes the arteries to stiffen and narrow, so blood flow throughout the body is restricted. For men, this may mean less blood to the penis. This can make it difficult to maintain or even achieve an erection. This is a condition known as erectile dysfunction (ED).
Additional side effects may include:
- Difficulty ejaculating
- Reduced sex drive
While a decreased ability to perform may feel shameful or embarrassing or even taboo, know it's rather common. Many men of all ages suffer from both high blood pressure and ED. But high blood pressure and ED are entirely treatable.
These concerns should be brought to your doctor, as they can help guide you on the best approach to take.
It has yet to be understood the direct impact high blood pressure has on a woman's sex drive, but there's a possibility the two relate.
Just as high blood pressure reduces blood flow to the penis, it can reduce the flow of blood to the vagina. This can lead to reduced arousal, vaginal dryness, and the inability to orgasm. As with men, women can also feel ashamed and embarrassed about their condition, however, a doctor and certain medications can help.
Even if you didn't have issues with erectile dysfunction before, you might find your BP medication has lowered your sex drive. There are certain medications where ED is a known side effect. This includes:
- Diuretics: Also known as water pills, this medication can inhibit blood flow to the penis, and you may find it difficult to achieve an erection. Additionally, it may reduce your body's zinc, which is needed in the production of testosterone.
- Beta-Blockers: These medications have long been associated with erectile dysfunction, especially older formulas like propranolol.
Over time, these side effects may go away. It also helps to take your medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you find your issues are there for the long-term, it may be worth switching to a different medication. Those less likely to cause sexual side effects include:
- ACE inhibitors
- Calcium channel blockers
- Angiotensin II receptor blockers
Be honest with your doctor about everything you take. Certain medications, even herbal ED treatment and natural supplements, when combined, may cause erectile dysfunction.
Check Out Some Treatment OptionsThe good news is there are plenty of options out there, and it's typically safe to combine blood pressure medication with erectile dysfunction medication (as long as your doctor approves it).
The most common ED meds are:
- Sildenafil (Viagra)
- Vardenafil (Levitra)
- Tadalafil (Cialis)
While medication can certainly help, there are plenty of other ways to improve your BP. As a result, you may find your sex drive on the upswing as well.
A major component is taking charge and care of your overall health.
Steps you can take include:
- Regular exercise sessions of 30 minutes or more
- Decrease sodium intake
- Limiting alcohol
- Quitting smoking
- A healthier diet
- Losing weight
Incorporating these aspects is a life-long commitment, but once the habits are formed, it's easy to maintain. A body you feel healthy and confident in is a great way to boost your sex life.
Be honest with both your doctor and partner.
If you have high blood pressure and ED, your doctor can help. The more they know of your habits, health, and life, the better your treatment will be.
Honesty with your partner can also help. Having them tuned in to how you feel can decrease pressure on yourself. Plus, sharing each other's sexual desires may be the spark you need.
Whatever way you choose to navigate blood pressure and ED, know that you don't have to do it alone. We're here to help.
Read more on ED treatmentsRead our in-depth guide on everything about erectile dysfunction (ED). Equip yourself with knowledge to successfully treat this condition
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More information on how high blood pressure can cause erectile dysfunction in men. Watch this video.