CLEVELAND CLINIC – Oh man. It seems like every other time we turn around there’s new insight about coronavirus.
That’s because even a year into the pandemic, we’re still learning about the virus’s long-term effects.
Research is shedding light on the repercussions of the virus on our bodies as a whole, but also on men’s sexual and reproductive health.
Researchers are piecing together that surviving COVID-19 may be associated with erectile dysfunction (ED).
The research points to three factors that can lead to the potential onset of ED in men who have had the virus:
Vascular effects. Erectile function is a predictor of heart disease, so we know that the vascular system and reproductive system are connected.
We also know that COVID-19 can cause hyper inflammation throughout the body, especially in the heart and surrounding muscles.
Blood supply to the penis can become blocked or narrowed as a result of a new or worsened vascular condition caused by the virus.
Psychological impact. Sexual activity is closely associated with mental health. The stress, anxiety and depression caused by the virus and pandemic can be linked to sexual dysfunction and poor mood.
Overall health deterioration. ED is typically a symptom of an underlying problem. Men with poor health are at greater risk for developing ED and also for having a severe reaction to COVID-19.
Since the virus can cause a plethora of health issues, general poor health is cause for concern both for ED and other complications.
“Erectile dysfunction can be a marker of overall health,” explains urologist Ryan Berglund, MD … Click here to read more.
