5 Everyday Factors That May Be Harming Your Erection
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Chapter 1: Understanding Erection Health
Men have some notable advantages in life, like the ability to urinate standing up and the option to go shirtless. However, they also possess a unique biological trait: their erections can serve as indicators of overall health. A healthy erection often points to a well-functioning cardiovascular system, while erectile dysfunction (ED) can be an early warning sign of heart-related issues.
ED, defined as the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual activity, affects about one in ten men, though the actual number could be higher due to unreported cases. Surprisingly, only 58% of those experiencing ED seek medical advice.
The complexity of erectile dysfunction arises from its diverse causes, which can be psychological—such as stress, depression, or anxiety—or physiological, including hormonal imbalances, medication side effects, and various health conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes.
One prevalent contributor to ED is arteriosclerosis, the hardening of arteries due to factors like obesity, physical inactivity, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and smoking. Another issue arises when the smooth muscles surrounding the veins weaken, leading to erectile dysfunction. Research indicates that men with ED are 38% more likely to have high blood pressure than those without.
If you're taking prescription medications, such as antidepressants or drugs for high blood pressure, you might already be aware of the potential for ED as a side effect. However, many common household items may also be dampening your romantic endeavors.
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Section 1.1: Common Erection Killers
Antihistamines
During allergy season, many men overlook a frequent culprit of ED: antihistamines. These medications, like Benadryl, Claritin, and Zyrtec, block histamines responsible for allergic reactions. Unfortunately, histamines are also crucial for achieving a healthy erection since they help relax smooth muscles and allow for blood flow to the penis. Thus, if you have allergies and a date planned, you may want to reconsider taking these medications.
Decongestants
Decongestants, such as Sudafed®, can also impede your romantic life. While they relieve nasal congestion, they contain pseudoephedrine, which constricts blood vessels, including those in the penis, making it difficult to achieve an erection. Of course, when you're feeling under the weather, your libido is likely the last thing on your mind.
COVID-19
With COVID-19 being so prevalent, its impact on men's health is becoming increasingly apparent. Initially thought to primarily affect the respiratory system, the virus also damages blood vessels. Men who have had COVID-19 are experiencing erectile dysfunction at alarming rates; a recent study found they are three times more likely to develop ED. Research has even discovered coronavirus particles in penile tissue months after infection, suggesting that the vir