Erectile dysfunction becomes more common when men get older. It may be something of a taboo subject, but it has a real impact on men who experience it. There are numerous factors that can contribute to erectile dysfunction, but here we explore the role that lifestyle factors such as dehydration can play in this condition.

Does dehydration cause erectile dysfunction, or what is the link between dehydration and erectile dysfunction? Let’s find out in this detailed guide.

Understanding Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction is a sexual health concern where a man finds it difficult to maintain and get an erection long enough to indulge in satisfying sexual intercourse. ED can be a long-term problem or occur occasionally and randomly [1].

Understanding Dehydration

Dehydration occurs when your body lacks water and fluids.

Click on WebMD’s detailed guide on dehydration to learn about its signs, symptoms, and effects.

Hydration And Erectile Dysfunction – Can Not Drinking Enough Water Cause Erectile Dysfunction?

To get an erection, a lot of the body’s systems must work together correctly. Everything, from the blood pumping through the body to the nerves around the penis, is necessary for a firm erection. If one area of the body is not working appropriately, impotence may occur.

Proper hydration is essential to overall health, including male sexual health. Your body experiences complications and adverse effects with dehydration or without adequate hydration. Several of these can result in erectile dysfunction.

Reduced Blood Volume And Circulation

Dehydration reduces the volume of blood circulation in your body. This reduction impacts your ability to maintain proper blood flow to all organs, including the penis. An erection relies on an appropriate supply of blood to the penis, and any disruption in circulation can prevent you from achieving firmness.

Increased Levels Of Angiotensin

When fluid levels fall, your body secretes a hormone called angiotensin. Angiotensin causes the blood vessels to constrict or tighten. This can lead to an increase in blood pressure and prevent proper blood flow through the body. This also includes blood flow to the penis.

In addition, increased blood pressure can reduce sexual satisfaction. As high blood pressure continues, it can harm or damage the blood vessels and arteries. It will make them narrower and more complex, permanently reducing blood flow. A reduction in blood flow can also reduce sensation in the penis and ultimately lower sexual desire [3].

Hormonal imbalances

Your body relies on proper hydration to produce hormones that regulate stress, energy, and sexual health. Dehydration can disrupt this balance, leading to an increased level of stress hormones like cortisol. Lower libido and reduced erectile function are associated with increased cortisol levels.

Fatigue and lack of energy

Not being hydrated properly can make you feel weak, tired, and dizzy, which is unsuitable for a healthy, intimate life. Sexual performance requires mental clarity and physical stamina, both of which are compromised when your body is dehydrated.

Signs and symptoms of dehydration-induced ED:

Some of the signs and symptoms of dehydration-induced erectile dysfunction are [4] –

• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Dark-colored urine or reduced frequency of urination
• Confusion or disorientation
• Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection
• Decreased sexual desire or satisfaction
• Fatigue or lack of energy
• Dry mouth and tongue.

Tips To Improve Hydration And Erectile Health

Below are some practical steps to improve hydration levels and sexual health.

Drink Enough Water Daily

Increasing your daily water intake is one of the easiest ways to maintain proper hydration. Aim to drink at least six to eight glasses of water daily and more if exposed to warm temperatures. Carry a water bottle to ensure you stay hydrated throughout the day.

Eat Hydrating Food Items

Indulging in water-rich foods like vegetables and fruits can significantly boost your hydration. Foods such as oranges, watermelon, cucumbers, and leafy greens provide hydration and essential minerals and vitamins that support hormonal and circulatory health.

Limit Dehydrating Beverages

Caffeinated drinks and alcohol can dehydrate your body by increasing fluid loss. Therefore, these drinks should be taken in moderation, and you can also replace them with water or herbal tea to maintain a better balance.

Other Causes Of Erectile Dysfunction

Dehydration is an easily treatable cause of impotence. Several other causes can also lead to erectile dysfunction in men. These include –

• Emotional or mental health issues
• Alcohol use or misuse
• Relationship problems
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Heart disease
• High cholesterol
• Sleeping or breathing disorders
• Tobacco use
• Prescription medications

Lifestyle Changes To Support Both Hydration And Erectile Function

Your lifestyle choices play an essential role in maintaining proper hydration and supporting sexual health. As explored in a study by Natalia Rakova et al., a diet rich in sodium can lead to increased water retention, which can make a person feel dehydrated as it reduces the amount of circulating blood fluid.

Similarly, excessive intake of alcohol can dehydrate the body by increasing the production of urine, which impacts not only your hydration levels but also your sexual performance.

Regular physical exercise benefits overall health, but it’s crucial to balance it with adequate water intake to avoid dehydration, which can affect sexual health.

Managing stress is also crucial, as chronic stress can lead to poor hydration habits, such as drinking caffeinated beverages or forgetting to drink enough fluids throughout the day.

Consider Professional ED Treatments

While staying hydrated is crucial for preventing dehydration-related ED, water intake alone may not always be sufficient. In such cases, exploring ED medicines such as generic Cialis can play a vital role in enhancing sexual well-being.

Generic Cialis work by improving blood flow to the penis, which is crucial to achieving an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse.

However, this medication should only be taken under the proper supervision of a doctor.

Conclusion

Erectile dysfunction or impotence is often a treatable condition affecting men. Dehydration is usually temporary and not the sole contributor to long-term impotence. Still, if a man is consistently having trouble maintaining or getting an erection, it is crucial to talk to his doctor for a diagnosis.