Doctor explains common erectile dysfunction cause and how you can fix the problem
A doctor has revealed a common cause of erectile dysfunction and the solution is so much simpler than you might think.
It might be embarrassing to talk about, but erectile dysfunction (ED) can happen to anyone, and according to Dr Ashwin Sharma, there's one common cause which is often overlooked.
Whether you've been out drinking all day, have spent a day by the pool in the baking sun, or you've been playing a sweaty game of football, there's one common denominator which could be affecting your abilities in bed: Dehydration.
While the UK has been basking in heatwaves in recent times, Google searches for how to treat erectile dysfunction have soared by 359 percent in the last month alone.
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For anyone struggling in this area, making sure you're hydrated is a good place to start.
"In the summer, hot weather and increased social drinking can lead to dehydration. Medical studies have shown that this reduces blood volume, and can affect circulation - which, in some people, may make it harder to achieve or keep an erection," Dr Sharma, from MedExpress, said.
"Excess alcohol consumption can further impact male sexual function in several ways. Firstly, alcohol impairs our central nervous system, which can delay signals between the brain and the penis, causing erectile dysfunction.
"Additionally, alcohol’s diuretic effect causes increased urination, resulting in dehydration and reduced blood flow, including to the penis. This dehydration can also elevate your levels of angiotensin, a hormone associated with ED."
Luckily, dehydration-induced erectile dysfunction has a simple cure, but staying hydrated isn't always as easy as it sounds.
Doctor's tips for staying hydrated
Dr Sharma has a number of tips for staying healthy and hydrated in the summer months, which as we now know, should help you keep on top of things under the sheets too.
First up, he recommends drinking eight glasses, or two litres of water per day, adding: "For optimal hydration, you should be taking regular sips throughout the day, rather than gulping your water. I would advise those on the move to invest in a bigger refillable bottle, which you can fill at regular points throughout the day."
Dr Sharma also highlighted the importance of replenishing fluids and any electrolytes which might have been lost as a result.
"If you’ve been drinking alcohol or sweating in the sun, your body loses essential electrolytes - like sodium, potassium, and magnesium - which are vital for normal bodily functions," he said.
"A quick electrolyte sachet can help restore balance. Alternatively, coconut water or a low-sugar sports drink can also provide a good dose of electrolytes to help you rehydrate effectively."
As much as 20 percent of our daily fluid intake comes from the food we eat, so Dr Sharma recommends eating water-rich foods to keep hydration levels up. But most importantly, you should take stock of how you're feeling and listen to your body.
"Consult with your body more regularly. Are you getting headaches? Is your urine not clear during the day? Are you not going to the toilet enough?" he said.
"These are all signs that you could be dehydrated and may need to consider a more proactive approach to ingesting more fluids."
Other lifestyle factors, such as poor diet, smoking and lack of exercise, are also cited as causes of erectile dysfunction.
If your symptoms continue even after making lifestyle adaptations, seek advice from your GP.
Topics: Health, Sex and Relationships
Emma Rosemurgey