Erectile Dysfunction Could be Sign of Heart Disease

By Christian Goodman

If you're noticing erectile dysfunction, it could be an early indicator of heart disease. Robert Kloner, a cardiologist at Keck School of Medicine in Los Angeles, told U.S. News and World Report, "Characteristics of erectile dysfunction seem to occur three to four years before symptoms of coronary artery disease."

The inability to develop or maintain an erection may be a signal of heart disease because an erection depends on healthy blood flow. In many cases, erectile dysfunction and coronary artery disease are caused by the same underlying problem: artery wall plaque build up. This plaque buildup can prevent blood from reaching the penis (and other parts of the body) and cause high blood pressure.

The development of heart disease is 80 per cent more likely in men with erectile dysfunction, according to a study from the Mayo Clinic. If you have experienced, even slight symptoms of, erectile dysfunction, consider it a wake-up call. You can save your erections and your heart by making healthier choices. First of all, tell your doctor about your situation. Sure, it's embarrassing, but that embarrassment will only last for a few seconds. A heart attack, on the other hand, will have permanent consequences.

Obesity is a major risk factor. If you're overweight, cut back on fat and sugar in your diet. Try to eat mostly fruits, vegetables, and unrefined grains like brown rice, plus a little fresh meat. Don't eat too much meat because it is very high in fat. We live in a fast-food society, but if you want to get healthy, you have to learn how to shop for healthy foods and prepare them yourself.

If you smoke, find a way to quit. There are so many options for smoking cessation, including nicotine patches and gum. You could even buy an electronic cigarette that satisfies your cravings for nicotine and oral fixation without the harmful effects of the smoke. Pharmaceutical and counseling options for smoking cessation are also available. Find something that works for you.

A consistent exercise schedule will help you lose weight and stay healthy. It's never too late to start exercising. One study found that men who started exercising in middle age had a 70 lessened risk of erectile dysfunction. You can regain normal sexual function with regular exercise, even if you currently suffer from erectile dysfunction.

You should try to exercise a minimum of 30 minutes five times a week. You don't have to join a gym or buy a home gym. Exercise can be as easy as walking. In fact, walking is one of the healthiest, most natural types of exercise, and the injury risk is low. The type of exercise doesn't matter as much as the frequency of the exercise. Stick to a regular schedule. Try to get your heart rate up when you exercise. You don't necessarily have to wear yourself out, but you should be breathing harder than normal. But first, talk to your doctor before commencing any type of exercise routine, especially if you know you have heart disease. Your doctor may suggest that you avoid strenuous exercises. To learn more about easy, low-impact, heart-healthy exercises, see these hypertension exercises.

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