Can Dehydration Cause Erectile Dysfunction (ED)?
Friday, March 2, 2022
Time and time again we talk about erectile dysfunction on Mornings with Mizzy, via Facebook. While investigating the subject I came across this article in regards to dehydration and ED. With the warmer weather rapidly approaching I thought it was a great article to help inform and bring awareness to the alternative lifestyle space. Although the article is geared towards men, the messaging is applicable to all humans.
Ok back to the men. Let’s go!
Overview
As men get older, erectile dysfunction (ED) becomes more common. ED occurs when a man is unable to get and keep an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse.
ED can be a chronic problem, or it can occur randomly and occasionally. Many causes can contribute to both chronic and temporary ED. Find out more about ED.
One possible explanation for temporary ED is dehydration. In order for a man to have an erection that’s firm enough for sex, many of the body’s systems have to work together in harmony. If one area is off, such as fluid levels that are too low because of dehydration, ED can occur.
Understanding what can lead to dehydration, how dehydration can cause ED, and how it’s treated can help prevent both dehydration and ED caused by lack of fluids.
Hydration and sexual health
In order for a man to get an erection and eventually reach orgasm, a lot of the body’s systems have to work together properly. Everything from the nerves around the penis to the blood pumping through the body is necessary for an erection. If one area of the body isn’t working properly, erectile dysfunction may occur.
Hydration is an important component for overall health, including sexual health. Without proper hydration, your body experiences side effects and complications. Several of these can lead to ED.
First, the more hydrated your body is, the higher your volume of blood cells and plasma, and the more efficiently blood can flow through your veins and arteries. A low volume of red blood cells and plasma can lead to ED because the penis cannot get enough oxygen- and nutrient-rich blood to maintain an erection.
Second, when fluid levels in your body fall, your body starts creating a hormone called angiotensin. This hormone causes blood vessels to constrict or tighten. This can lead to an increase in blood pressure, and it prevents adequate blood flow through the body. This includes blood flow to the penis.
In addition, the increased blood pressure can reduce sexual satisfaction. As high blood pressure continues, it can damage the blood vessels and arteries. It will make them harder and narrower, which reduces blood flow permanently. Reduced blood flow can also reduce sensation in the penis and ultimately lower sexual desire. Read more about the connection between high blood pressure and ED.
Signs of dehydration
Thirst is a poor indicator of hydration status. If you’re thirsty, you’re already dehydrated. The best way to monitor your hydration status is to pay attention to other signs of dehydration. These include:
reduced urination, both amount and frequency
dark-colored urine
dry mouth and tongue
fatigue
lack of stamina
dizziness
confusion or a disoriented feeling
Dehydration can become serious if it’s not treated quickly. In addition to the effects on your sex life, dehydration can cause several complications. These include:
urinary tract infections
kidney stones
kidney infections
kidney failure
muscle cramps
heat exhaustion
heatstroke
seizures
low blood volume shock
Causes of ED
Dehydration is an easily-treated cause of ED. Several other causes can also lead to erection problems. These include:
problems with your circulatory system, including clogged blood vessels and high blood pressure
heart disease
high cholesterol
obesity
diabetes
diseases or conditions that cause nerve or muscle damage, including Pa