The doctor warns you can feel perfectly well and still have high blood pressure or cholesterol
Men who experience ongoing problems getting or maintaining an erection may be overlooking a warning sign about their heart health, a cardiologist has warned. Erectile dysfunction is common and can have several causes, including stress, tiredness, anxiety and medication. But when problems keep happening, they can sometimes be linked to conditions affecting blood vessels, including high blood pressure, raised cholesterol and diabetes.
Dr Francesco Lo Monaco, Harley Street-based cardiologist and founder of the National Longevity Clinic, says men should not feel embarrassed about seeking advice – particularly when erection problems are persistent or unexplained. “An erection depends on healthy blood flow. If the blood vessels are not functioning as they should, it can affect erectile function,” he said.
“Erectile dysfunction does not automatically mean somebody has heart disease. But in some men, it can be an early sign of vascular problems, which is why it is worth looking beyond the symptom itself.”
Dr Francesco explained: “Men can feel perfectly well and still have high blood pressure or cholesterol. These conditions can develop without obvious symptoms. If erectile problems are persistent, it is an opportunity to check whether there are other risk factors that need attention.”
1. Blood pressure
High blood pressure often has no symptoms but can damage blood vessels over time. Measuring blood pressure can help identify hypertension, which may otherwise go unnoticed.
“A blood pressure check is one of the simplest ways to learn more about your cardiovascular health,” Dr Francesco said.
“You cannot reliably judge your blood pressure by how you feel. If it is raised, your clinician can explain what that means and whether further monitoring or treatment is needed.”
2. Cholesterol
A blood test can measure cholesterol and other blood fats that contribute to cardiovascular risk. Raised LDL cholesterol can contribute to fatty deposits building up in arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Dr Francesco said: “Cholesterol is particularly important because it is not something you can see or feel. Someone can be slim, active and feel healthy, but still have raised cholesterol. Family history also matters, so it is worth discussing if close relatives have had heart disease at a younger age.”
3. Blood glucose
A blood test such as HbA1c measures average blood glucose over around two to three months and can help identify prediabetes or type 2 diabetes. Diabetes can affect blood vessels and nerves involved in erectile function.
Dr Francesco said: “Blood glucose is another important part of the picture. Raised blood sugar can affect blood vessels over time, and diabetes is associated with erectile dysfunction. Identifying a problem early gives people and their healthcare team a chance to manage it.”
4. A wider health assessment
A clinician may also ask about symptoms, medical history, lifestyle, medications and family history. Depending on the individual, they may check weight or waist circumference, review testosterone levels, or assess overall cardiovascular risk.
“Erectile dysfunction is not always caused by a physical condition – stress, anxiety and relationship factors can also play a role,” Dr Francesco said. “A proper assessment looks at the whole person. The aim is to understand what may be contributing to the problem and identify any wider health concerns.”
He said: “Men can find this difficult to talk about, but it is a common health concern and there is help available. If it is happening repeatedly, speak to a healthcare professional. It is not just about sexual health – it can also be an opportunity to look after your long-term wellbeing.”
Movember encourages men to take their health seriously, and Dr Francesco says the message should extend beyond prostate and testicular health. He added: “Preventative healthcare is about understanding your risks before you become unwell.
“Knowing your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels can be a valuable step towards protecting your health for the future.”
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