Does COVID-19 cause erectile dysfunction in men? -Life Health

In addition to the common side effects that most people experience, men also face an increased risk of erectile dysfunction.

While loss of smell, taste, fatigue, and shortness of breath are characteristic symptoms of COVID-19 infection erectile dysfunction (ED) is also one of the common side effects in men.

Rahul Mehan is a researcher and urologist at Banner Health Center in Mesa, Arioza, USA. “There is a link between COVID-19 and ED.”

Dr. Mehan said he has seen a significant increase in the number of new patients with ED when COVID-19 occurs, especially for men under the age of 50 who often suffer from sexual dysfunction.

“COVID-19 causes a very strong inflammatory response throughout the whole body, from the heart to the brain. Therefore, it is not surprising that sexual function may also be involved. We’re still learning more about the long-term consequences of COVID-19, but as a urologist, I’m very concerned about issues related to erectile dysfunction in men.”Dr. Mehan said.

The link between COVID-19 and erectile dysfunction

Dr. Mehan said COVID-19 can affect a person’s sex drive as follows:

Damaged blood vessels in the penis

Did you know that inside the penis there are some extremely small and fragile blood vessels. In addition to providing blood to the penis, it also plays an important role in providing blood to the reproductive organs, aiding in erection.

In some men, COVID-19 can cause the formation of small blood clots as well as inflammation of the lining of blood vessels. When the blood supply to the penis is blocked or narrowed, it inevitably makes it difficult for the penis to get an erection.

– Cells in the testicles are damaged

Testosterone is also important for erections. Recent studies have shown that COVID-19 can impair testosterone levels and fertility in men.

Dr Mehan said: “The virus that causes COVID-19 enters cells with the help of a protein called ACE2. This virus uses ACE2 to infect the testicles. Since this is where testosterone and sperm are made, it’s safe to say that the virus affects erections and male fertility.”

An Italian study found lower testosterone levels in men who had recovered from COVID-19. Dr. Mehan reminds that men who have just started experiencing erectile dysfunction should get their hormones checked to make sure their testicles are still functioning properly.

– Impact on mental health

Most people who have had COVID-19 experience varying degrees of distress after being isolated at home for too long, losing loved ones, friends, and financially affected. These things can destroy their sex drive.

However, in addition to these, men are especially at risk have erectile dysfunction.

Dr. Mehan says: “Sexual activity is strongly linked to mental health. To have good sexual function, your mind needs to be at ease.”

– Poor overall health

If you’re in poor health, men are more likely to have erectile dysfunction and risk COVID-19 causing other serious problems.

COVID-19 can affect the heart and worsen underlying cardiovascular conditions, such as myocarditis, arrhythmias, and many other complications.

In this case, when men use some specialized drugs to treat the disease, it can negatively affect their sexual function.

Treatment of erectile dysfunction

COVID-19 has greatly impacted everyone’s daily lives. Having erectile dysfunction as a side effect can make men more mentally drained.

If you have recovered from COVID-19 infection, and suspect you have erectile dysfunction, it is best to consult your doctor for advice and treatment. Your doctor can help determine the cause of ED and offer several potential solutions.

Dr. Mehan says: “Just because you have erectile dysfunction does not mean that your sexual function will be worse from now on. With the right treatment options, men’s problems, no matter how serious, can be solved.”