Does high cholesterol cause erectile dysfunction?
High cholesterol contributes to erectile dysfunction by damaging blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the penis, and impairing its ability to relax for an erection. Research shows it induces ED through mechanisms like increased oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction in penile tissue. Lowering cholesterol levels can improve erectile function in men, where high cholesterol is the main factor.
Key points:
- High cholesterol narrows and stiffens blood vessels, limiting blood flow needed for erections.
- It increases oxidative stress and impairs endothelial function in the penis.
- High cholesterol reduces nitric oxide release and may lower testosterone, affecting erections.
- Physical vascular changes from high cholesterol are a key cause of ED.
This text has been fact-checked for accuracy by Sorin Romaniuc, Pharmacist at medino.