Doctor warns that erectile dysfunction can be early indicator of fatal disease

A doctor has warned erectile dysfunction, or ED for short, can be linked to a potentially fatal disease and stressed the importance of 'understanding the early indicators'.

Some 30 million men in the US suffer from erectile dysfunction, which can come about due to a variety of different reasons.

To mark Heart Month taking place this February, one doctor warned of the link between ED and heart disease as he explained the key signs to be wary of.

Dr Donald Grant, a GP and Senior Clinical Advisor at The Independent Pharmacy, stated how the risk factors between the two conditions are actually quite similar.

For example, obesity, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, and high blood pressure can increase a person's chances of developing both erectile dysfunction and heart disease, according to the doctor.

"It’s no surprise that the two conditions are so heavily linked, when each risk factor can make both functions worse over a prolonged period," Dr Grant said.

The health expert went on to say that both conditions stem from reduced blood flow, which points towards a strong link.

ED affects 30 million Americans (Getty Stock Photo)

Dr Grant said: "Cardiovascular well-being and maintaining an erection have one major thing in common: blood flow. Both require proper blood flow, and damaged arteries can often impair cardiovascular or erectile function. As such, both conditions stem from the same problem."

The doctor went on to say that erectile dysfunction often surfaces before heart disease, with Grant explaining it's a 'potential indicator' before 'the risk of heart attacks or strokes increases exponentially'.

That's why it's important to pay your doctor a visit if you're struggling with ED.

Dr Grant also noted that hormones 'play a big role', as she added: "One aspect that often goes unnoticed by many is the effect hormonal imbalances can have on both heart and erectile function.

"Interestingly, a 2021 study has highlighted that lower testosterone levels are associated with an increased risk of developing both ED and cardiovascular disease."

There are a few factors linking ED and heart disease (Getty Stock Photo)

While they may be linked, there are ways men can reduce their chances of developing both ED and heart disease.

Dr Grant continued: "Men should take time to assess their health and lifestyle habits to reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease. One of the most effective ways to do this is by maintaining a healthy lifestyle and avoiding bad habits such as smoking or unhealthy eating.

"I recommend a well-balanced diet and regular sleep routine. These lifestyle shifts may seem minor, but they can play a massive role in reducing risk."

The doctor went on to say that men should take ED 'more seriously' as struggling in the bedroom could be a sign of something more sinister going on.

And the key is about implementing 'exercise into daily routines' for a more healthy lifestyle and a decreased change of suffering from ED and heart disease.