Can Dehydration Cause Erectile Dysfunction

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. 

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 it can occur occasionally and randomly [1]. 

Dehydration And Its Symptoms

Dehydration is a condition that occurs when your body does not have the amount of water and fluids it needs.

Some of the signs of dehydration include [2] – 

• Dizziness
• Dark-colored urine
• Dry mouth and tongue
• Reduced urination 
• Lack of stamina
• Disoriented feelings or confusion
• Fatigue.

Hydration And Erectile Dysfunction

In order to get an erection, a lot of the body’s systems must work together properly. 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 an important component of overall health, including men’s sexual health. With dehydration or without proper hydration, your body experiences complications and adverse effects. Several of these can result in erectile dysfunction.

Firstly, the more hydrated your body is, the higher the volume of blood cells and plasma will be; as a result, more efficiently, blood can flow through the arteries and veins. A low level of plasma and red blood cells can lead to impotence because the penis cannot get enough nutrient and oxygen-rich blood to maintain an erection. 

Secondly, when fluid levels in your body fall, your body starts to secrete 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 harder, which can lead to reduced blood flow permanently. A reduction in blood flow can also reduce sensation in the penis and ultimately lower sexual desire [3]. 

Other Causes Of Erectile Dysfunction

Dehydration is an easily treatable cause of impotence. Several other causes can also lead to erectile dysfunction. 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
  

Ways To Prevent Erectile Dysfunction

Below are some key simple tips that will not only prevent the risk of erectile dysfunction but will also allow you to improve your general health. 

• Eat Right

To help maintain erectile dysfunction, it is important to choose the best foods for ED, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Follow a healthy diet plan to help aim for a healthy weight and control diabetes and your blood pressure. Controlling diabetes and blood pressure may help prevent erectile dysfunction. 

Some other effective food items that you can add to your diet for sexual benefits include cinnamon and mango.

The benefits of cinnamon for sexual health are numerous. Some of these benefits include improved sperm count, menstrual cycle, sex drive, and ED. 

In most cases, men with ED are prescribed medications known as PDE5 inhibitors. However, people who hesitate to use medications can eat some food items that act like this enzyme. Get a look at the list of food items that function like this enzyme in our detailed guide on this topic. 

• Physical workouts

Regular physical exercise encourages good blood flow throughout the body, sending fresh oxygen and nutrients where needed. Physical exercise also promotes testosterone production (a hormone that regulates sex drive and plays a vital role in sperm production) and helps ward off diabetes and heart disease. 

• Avoid smoking

Smoking is a major reason for erectile dysfunction as it reduces the blood flow to the penis. A study published in 2014 concluded that smokers are at greater risk of developing erectile dysfunction independent of age and comorbidities [4].

Conclusion

Erectile dysfunction or impotence is often a treatable condition affecting men. 

Dehydration is usually a temporary condition and is 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.