Erectile Dysfunction (ED) and Vascular Disease: ED Can Indicate More Serious Health Concerns
Courtesy North Dallas Urology Associates, Collin County LIVING WELL Magazine
Evidence that links heart disease and erectile dysfunction (ED) has been mounting during the past several years. In one study 65% of men who experienced a heart attack had erectile dysfunction (ED) and no known history of heart disease.[1] Additionally, it has been documented that some men experience their first heart attack about three to five years after their first signs of ED![2] Since erectile dysfunction can be a warning sign of silent vascular disease it has lead some medical experts to consider a man with ED, and no cardiac symptoms, as a cardiac (or vascular) patient until proven otherwise.[3]
Because the penile arteries are much smaller than largest arteries of the heart, evidence of cardiovascular disease can manifest first as erectile dysfunction symptoms, long before other symptoms occur. As research continues to demonstrate the link between ED symptoms and cardiovascular disease, physician and patients alike need to be aware of the importance of early screening of ED accompanied by appropriate evaluation. In some cases, this may include being screened for heart disease.
Erectile dysfunction is a common problem that affects millions of men –18 million men in the United States alone–and their significant others. The inability to obtain or maintain an erection suitable for sexual intercourse can provide an early indicator of other undiagnosed disorders. Therefore it can be used as a barometer of overall men’s health that can lead to detection of more serious conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol or diabetes. It can also contribute to self-esteem issues, anxiety, depressive mood, and tension within a relationship.
The good news is when men experiencing erectile dysfunction seek treatment, an opportunity to identify other serious health conditions is created. Additionally, there are many new treatments for ED and it can be successfully treated. Some treatment
options offer a temporary solution while others, including a minimally invasive procedure, can provide a permanent way to resolve the problem. Urologists are doctors that specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of ED. If you are experiencing erectile dysfunction, you should seek treatment by a urologist who can assess the cause and partner with you and your significant other to identify the optimal solution.
North Dallas Urology Associates is a comprehensive seven-physician urology group with offices in Richardson, Plano, Frisco and McKinney. Prostate cancer treatments offered include robotic prostate surgery and state-of-the-art radiation treatments at our dedicated prostate cancer treatment facility in Plano. Appointments may be made by contacting the following numbers: For Richardson, Plano and Frisco, call 972-612-8037. For McKinney, call 972-548-8195.
[1]
Thompson et al. Erectile Dysfunction and Subsequent Cardiovascular Disease, JAMA. 2005; 294:2996-3002
[1]
Montorsi F, Briganti A, Salonia A, Rigatti P, Margonato A, Macchi A, Galli S,
Ravagnani PM, Montorsi P. Erectile dysfunction prevalence, time of onset and
association with risk factors in 300 consecutive patients with acute chest pain
and angiographically documented coronary artery disease. Eur Urol 2003;44:360-365
[1]
Jackson G, Rosen RC, Kloner RA, Kostis JB.
The second Princeton Consensus on sexual dysfunction and cardiac
risk: new guidelines for sexual
medicine. J Sex Med 2006;3:28-36
