Could Erectile Dysfunction Be a Warning Sign of Heart Disease?
By Dr. David Samadi
Erectile dysfunction (ED) isn’t just about sexual health—it could be a red flag for your heart. Men with ED are at a higher risk of heart disease, including heart attacks. This is because ED, coronary artery disease, and heart disease are all interconnected. Understanding this link is crucial, as taking action can help prevent serious heart-related events.
How ED and Heart Health Are Connected
At the core of both ED and heart disease is a condition called atherosclerosis. It’s a complicated word, but the concept is simple: atherosclerosis is plaque buildup inside the arteries. This buildup is often referred to as “hardening of the arteries,” and it plays a significant role in heart health. Healthy arteries are clear and flexible and allow blood to flow freely, carrying oxygen from the heart to the rest of the body. When we’re young, there’s typically little to no plaque buildup in our arteries, which means blood flows smoothly.
As we age, cholesterol and other deposits gradually accumulate in the artery walls. By the time many men hit their 40s, some degree of plaque buildup has already begun. You can think of it like a plumbing problem: just as sludge clogs up pipes, fatty deposits clog arteries, reducing blood flow and oxygen delivery. Over time, this narrowing can lead to dangerous outcomes, like heart attacks and strokes.
Atherosclerosis affects all arteries in the body, but not all arteries are the same. Penile arteries, for example, are about half the size of coronary arteries. This means that ED can often be an early warning sign of heart disease. Men who suffer from ED might not realize that their heart health is also at risk until a heart attack or other serious cardiovascular event occurs.
The Penis as a Signal for Heart Health
In many cases, erectile dysfunction serves as a “warning barometer,” highlighting circulation problems before more severe cardiovascular issues develop. Some experts even refer to ED as “penile angina,” drawing a direct connection between clogged arteries in the heart and those in the penis. ED and coronary artery disease are essentially different symptoms of the same underlying condition: atherosclerosis.
Why Men with ED Should See a Cardiologist
A 2016 study found that men between the ages of 40 and 49 with new cases of ED had a 50-fold increase in their risk of developing coronary artery disease. That’s a staggering statistic, showing just how strongly linked ED and heart disease can be. Researchers have even found that doctors can predict a man’s cardiac stress test results with 80% accuracy simply by measuring blood flow in the penis.
Because of these findings, many experts recommend that men with ED should be evaluated for heart disease. While not every man with ED will have cardiovascular issues, it’s a golden opportunity to assess heart health and make lifestyle changes. Addressing ED can not only improve sexual performance but also reduce the risk of serious heart problems.
What You Can Do
If you’re experiencing ED, take it as a chance to prioritize your overall health. Some lifestyle changes that can improve both ED and heart health include:
- Eating a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
- Exercise regularly to improve circulation and boost cardiovascular health.
- Managing stress which can impact both heart and sexual function.
- Quitting smoking as it’s a significant risk factor for both ED and heart disease.
- Limiting alcohol consumption promotes better overall well-being.
- Getting adequate sleep plays a crucial role in heart health and energy levels.
Taking these steps won’t just help your sex life—they’ll protect your heart and improve your long-term health.
Dr. David Samadi is the Director of Men’s Health and Urologic Oncology at St. Francis Hospital in Long Island. He’s a renowned and highly successful board-certified Urologic Oncologist Expert and Robotic Surgeon in New York City, regarded as one of the leading prostate surgeons in the U.S., with a vast expertise in prostate cancer treatment and Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy. Dr. Samadi is a medical contributor to NewsMax TV and is also the author of two books, Prostate Cancer, Now What? A Practical Guide to Diagnosis, Treatment, and Recovery, and The Ultimate MANual, Dr. Samadi’s Guide to Men’s Health and Wellness, available online both on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Visit Dr. Samadi’s websites at robotic oncology and prostate cancer 911.