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The effects of high cholesterol in men can have a negative impact on a man’s sexual life. Why does high cholesterol lead to erectile dysfunction? High cholesterol and erectile dysfunction are seemingly unrelated conditions that actually go hand in hand. How do erections work? After sexual stimulation in men either by touch or through the mind, the body releases chemicals that cause the penile arteries (corpora cavernosa) to relax. The arteries dilate causing the corpora cavernosa to fill with blood. As a result, the penis becomes stiffer and elongated. Erections subside after stimulation ceases or after an orgasm.
How is High Cholesterol Related to Erection Problems?
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance. Too much bad cholesterol (also known as LDL) in the bloodstream creates arterial plaque that damages and blocks blood flow. These blockages will result to inadequate circulation of blood throughout the system including the penis and genital area. As a result, erection problems occur. The side effects of high cholesterol in men can lead to erectile dysfunction. The higher your LDL levels the more likely to develop erection problems and severe cases lead to impotence. Also, high cholesterol can make the body more difficult to produce the necessary chemicals to create an erection. High cholesterol affects the body’s ability to properly release nitric oxide into the bloodstream. This prevents the proper relaxation of penile tissues to cause erectile engorgement.
Is High Cholesterol and Erectile Dysfunction Reversible?
High cholesterol and erectile dysfunction could be an underlying cause of another health problem. However, these problems are reversible. High cholesterol affects testosterone production. Testosterone is a hormone responsible for the secondary sex characteristics of men. Testosterone is also responsible for sending messages of sexual stimulation throughout the body. Testicles produce testosterone that plays a vital role in controlling a man’s sexual drive. High cholesterol limits blood flow to the testicles. As a result, may damage their ability to produce testosterone.
Lipid lowering medications can also contribute to erectile dysfunction. Although these medications can lower cholesterol levels, a lot of men report negative effect on their erectile function. Lower cholesterol levels can help reverse erectile dysfunction. However, some men taking lipid lowering pills face difficulty in achieving an erection for the meantime. As a result, erection problems occur.
What are the Side Effects of High Cholesterol in Men?
In men, high cholesterol can damage sexual performance and decreases libido. High cholesterol and erectile dysfunction are two linked health conditions. Erectile dysfunction is the earliest symptom of high cholesterol in men.
Are there treatments Available?
There are manifold treatment options available for patients suffering from high cholesterol and erectile dysfunction. These treatments won’t interfere with your lipid lowering medications. Call your physicians at Boston Medical Group Telemedicine for appointment. They prescribe the best course of treatment for erectile dysfunction after thorough assessment. In some cases, Boston Medical Group Telemedicine can help patients resume their sexual performance in just one visit. For further inquiries about the treatment for erection problems, call 1-800-337-7555.
