While the condition is commonly linked to factors such as medical conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, and psychological factors such as stress and anxiety, another cause which is often overlooked is dehydration. Experts believe that there is a link between not drinking enough water and the ability to achieve or maintain an erection.
Continue reading as we explore how dehydration can cause erectile dysfunction, common signs to look out for, how to stay hydrated for better erectile performance, what you can take to treat it, and whether erectile dysfunction medications can actually cause dehydration.
Dehydration is when the body loses more fluid than it takes in. Sufficient water intake is essential for normal bodily functions. It brings nutrients to cells, improves blood flow, regulates body temperature, aids digestion, eliminates toxins and cushions joints. Elderly people are more at risk of becoming dehydrated. [1]
On the other hand, erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition in men over the age of 40. Common symptoms include the inability to achieve or maintain an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. Some men also suffer from low sex drive. ED can be caused by a variety of factors including stress, performance anxiety, high alcohol intake, obesity and pre-existing health conditions. Certain medications can also contribute to ED.
While few studies show a direct link between dehydration and ED, they have similar risk factors:
As mentioned earlier, older people, primarily over 60, are more prone to becoming dehydrated. As people age, their kidney function gradually decreases, making them less effective at conserving water when the body is dehydrated. This can lead to greater water loss and an increased risk of dehydration. Ageing can also lead to a diminished sense of thirst. Older adults often don’t feel thirsty until they are already dehydrated, meaning they might not drink enough fluids to replenish the water loss.
In addition, men between the ages of 40 and 70 are more likely to experience erectile dysfunction due to hormonal changes and health conditions such as heart disease.
Diabetes
People living with diabetes are more prone to health conditions including dehydration and ED. High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and nerves, including those that control erections. High blood sugar levels can also increase urine production as the body attempts to excrete excess sugar. If not replenished by adequate fluid intake, it can lead to dehydration.
Hydration is essential for overall health. If the body is dehydrated, side effects such as experiencing a difficulty in achieving or sustaining an erection can occur. Dehydration can cause erectile dysfunction in the following ways:
Plasma is the liquid component of blood, which consists of over 90% water. When the body is dehydrated, the volume of blood plasma decreases. This makes it more difficult for the body to pump blood to all organs including the penis. Decreased blood volume prevents the corpus cavernosum (two columns of erectile tissue inside the penis) from getting sufficient oxygen and nutrient-rich blood necessary to achieve or maintain an erection, resulting in erectile dysfunction.
Furthermore, dehydration causes the blood vessels to tighten and become narrow. This causes high blood pressure and reduces blood flow throughout the body. Adequate blood flow is essential for normal erectile function. [2]
Dehydration can affect the body’s hormonal levels. The body needs water to produce hormones including testosterone, which plays a key role in male sexual health and penile function. When the body is dehydrated, testosterone production is limited, which can further contribute to erectile dysfunction.
When a person is dehydrated, their energy levels and mood usually falls. Fatigue and mood changes can decrease the desire for sexual activities. One study found that mild dehydration in men can cause tension, fatigue and anxiety. [3]
Recognising the signs of dehydration is crucial to prevent any negative affects on general health and erectile performance. Common indicators of dehydration include [4]:
Severe indications of dehydration include:
Here are some ways to maintain hydration levels for better erectile performance:
Ensuring proper hydration can help some individuals to overcome temporary ED. If, however, your ED symptoms persist even after improving your fluid intake, other treatments may need to be considered to regain normal erectile function.
One of the most effective treatments for erectile dysfunction is the use of PDE5 inhibitors. These medications function by inhibiting the PDE5 enzyme, thereby increasing blood flow to the penis. This enhancement in circulation helps men to get an erection firm enough for sex upon sexual arousal. PDE5 inhibitors come in oral tablet form, ranging from 5 to 50 mg. They are typically taken 30 to 60 minutes before engaging in sexual activities. The effects can last for 4 or 5 hours.
PDE5 inhibitors are prescribed by a doctor or purchased through an online pharmacy. There are many types of PDE5 inhibitors available at Chemist Click including:
Before you purchase erectile dysfunction medication from Chemist Click, you will need to complete a free online consultation with one of our qualified pharmacists to find the best and safest option for your specific needs.
There is not enough research to suggest that erectile dysfunction medication, mainly PDE5 inhibitors, cause dehydration. However, the side effects of PDE5 inhibitors such as headaches can be indirect contributing factors. Viagra may have a diuretic effect, which means it causes the body to release excess water. If you think Viagra is causing headaches or dehydration, there are techniques that can help you to avoid getting a headache after taking Viagra.
If you suffer from severe headaches or a headache that won’t go away, speak to a doctor or pharmacist.
If you suspect that dehydration is affecting your sexual performance, addressing your water intake is a good first step. However, it’s important to remember that ED can have multiple underlying causes, and persistent issues should prompt a consultation with a healthcare provider. Seeking professional help not only aids in identifying root causes but also opens the door to a variety of effective treatments. Remember, ED is a common issue, and seeking help is a brave and positive step towards reclaiming your health and well-being.
NHS (2023). Erectile Dysfunction (Impotence). Retrieved 23rd October 2024, from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/erection-problems-erectile-dysfunction/
Urology of Greater Atlanta. (n.d). Can Dehydration Cause Erectile Dysfunction? (ED). Retrieved 23rd October 2024, from: https://ugatl.com/can-dehydration-cause-erectile-dysfunction/
Ganio MS, Armstrong LE, Casa DJ. (2011). Mild Dehydration Impairs Cognitive Performance and Mood of Men. Retrieved 23rd October 2024, from: https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/british-journal-of-nutrition/article/mild-dehydration-impairs-cognitive-performance-and-mood-of-men/3388AB36B8DF73E844C9AD19271A75BF
WebMD. (2023). Dehydration: Signs, Symptoms, and Effects. Retrieved 23rd October 2024, from: https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/dehydration-adults
Mayo Clinic (2022). Water: How Much Should You Drink Every Day? Retrieved 23rd October 2024, from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/water/art-20044256
Whilst all of our content is written and reviewed by healthcare professionals, it is not intended to be substituted for or used as medical advice. If you have any questions or concerns about your health, please speak to your doctor.
Erectile dysfunction is often seen as a sexual dysfunction that only affects middle-aged and older men but this is not always the case. The condition can occur in men even in their 20s, which may be surprising.
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