Can alcohol cause erectile dysfunction?
Yes, alcohol can cause erectile dysfunction through both immediate and long-term mechanisms. Excessive or chronic alcohol consumption affects the nervous system, blood circulation, and hormone levels, all essential for sexual function. While occasional drinking may cause temporary erectile problems that resolve once you've sobered up, heavy or prolonged alcohol use can lead to persistent erectile dysfunction.
Key points:
- Alcohol impairs blood flow to the penis by causing dehydration and triggering the release of hormones that narrow blood vessels.
- Chronic alcohol use damages nerves and the nervous system, disrupting the signals needed to achieve and maintain an erection.
- Long-term drinking lowers testosterone levels, which is essential for sexual function and erectile response.
- Alcohol-induced erectile dysfunction can often be reversed by reducing or eliminating alcohol consumption, depending on the severity and duration of use.
This text has been fact-checked for accuracy by Sorin Romaniuc, Pharmacist at medino.