High blood pressure is a common health issue among American adults, and unfortunately for men, so is erectile dysfunction. But are the two somehow related? Does erectile dysfunction cause high blood pressure, or does high blood pressure cause erectile dysfunction?

Let’s discuss the basics concerning hypertension and erectile dysfunction, including the link between the two and what men who suffer from both disorders can do about it.

The Link Between ED and Hypertension

Many men who deal with high blood pressure also experience erectile issues. Almost half of men between 40 and 79 years of age who have hypertension also have erectile dysfunction, according to the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society.

The way the link works between these two conditions may vary though, as several elements related to high blood pressure can affect the erectile tissues.

For example, high blood pressure interferes with artery dilation, limiting the blood supply to the genitals. Further, high blood pressure also prevents penile smooth muscles from relaxing, and these issues combined often inhibit the supply of blood flow necessary to have an erection.

High blood pressure also leads to lower testosterone levels, which play a key role in the function of the reproductive system.

Finally, some medications used to treat high blood pressure can also cause or exacerbate erectile dysfunction. Diuretics and beta-blockers are commonly used to treat high blood pressure, and both are linked to erectile dysfunction.

Management Options

Understandably, many men who have high blood pressure feel discouraged when it comes to treatment options. On one hand, hypertension is a serious health concern and should not be left untreated. On the other hand, very few people feel good about taking medications that will damage or even destroy their sex lives.

Fortunately for men with erectile dysfunction in Colorado, solutions are available. While every patient lives with unique circumstances, sometimes changing hypertension medication is an option. While beta-blockers and diuretics may be considered necessary if a coexisting condition is present, alternatives might be worth trying when combatting hypertension alone. Alpha-blockers and ACE inhibitors, for example, treat high blood pressure and rarely result in ED.

Drug-free Management

In some cases, doctors treating men with erectile dysfunction in Colorado may suggest an array of natural management options. Losing weight, smoking cessation, anxiety management, and nutritional counseling may be beneficial in lowering blood pressure and reducing the severity of erectile dysfunction.

Because hypertension and erectile dysfunction are both complicated conditions, diet and medication alone are not always the only treatment options. Reducing stress, getting better sleep, and taking part in low-impact exercise may also help boost a man’s health and reduce the effects of high blood pressure and erectile dysfunction.

Before trying any medical regimen, even natural options, it’s crucial to speak with your doctor about the safest options for your unique needs. If you’re seeking advice and treatment options for erectile dysfunction in Colorado, reach out to R2 Medical Clinic. We’ll walk you through all of your options and help recommend a treatment plan that works.