subject: Heart Disease Could Be Signaled By Erectile Dysfunction [print this page] 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.
Men with erectile dysfunction are 80 percent more likely to develop heart disease, according to a study from the Mayo Clinic. If you have experienced erectile dysfunction - even slight symptoms - 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 problem. 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 health risk factor. If you are overweight, cut back on fat and sugar in your diet. Attempt 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 and prepare healthy foods yourself.
Find a way to quit, if you smoke. There are so many options to cease smoking, including nicotine patches and gum. An electronic cigarette is available for purchase that satisfies your cravings for nicotine and oral fixation without the negative effects of the smoke. Pharmaceutical and counseling options for smoking cessation are also available. Find something that works for you.
Regular exercise 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 reduced risk of erectile dysfunction. Further, if you currently suffer from erectile dysfunction, you can regain normal sexual function with regular exercise.
You should try to exercise for at least 30 minutes five times a week. You don't have to join a gym or buy a home gym. Exercise can be as simple as walking. In fact, walking is one of the healthiest, most natural forms of exercise, and the risk of injury 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 beginning any type of exercise program, 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.
