Erectile Dysfunction - Hypertension

Hypertension (high blood pressure)

People with high blood pressure are more likely than average to develop atherosclerosis (or arteriosclerosis), which is commonly known as ‘hardening of the arteries’. Atherosclerosis causes arteries throughout the body to develop thicker walls and become narrower inside, so reducing the flow of blood through them. If this develops in the arteries going to the penis then it will be more difficult for the penis to fill with blood and so ED may result.

For a detailed explanation of the stages of an erection and the possible complications with each stage, read about the erection process.

Smoking increases the chances of developing high blood pressure

Smoking is the other major factor that increases the chance of atherosclerosis developing; therefore smokers have an increased risk of developing erectile dysfunction. There are many other adverse implications with smoking, so we wish to encourage smokers to seek help with quitting.

Get help with quitting smoking from Quit.org.uk

Other complications

Many of the medicines used to treat high blood pressure might also cause erectile difficulties as a side effect, particularly those called diuretics (water pills) and beta-blockers. High blood pressure is however a very important problem that needs to be treated too; and it is essential never to stop taking prescribed medication for it (or any other condition) without discussing the matter with your doctor. Many men who think that they have erectile dysfunction as a side effect of the drugs they are taking do not mention the problem to their doctor, who in turn may omit to ask if ED is happening.

It is therefore important to mention ED either before your start taking treatment for high blood pressure, or if it develops after you have been given medication for it, as quite often a medication change will be possible and cause fewer side effects.

For more details on erectile dysfunction caused by other medications, read Side Effects of Medication and Erectile Dysfunction

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