Erectile dysfunction is known to be caused by a number of reasons such as anxiety, too much smoking, diabetes, obesity, or overdosing on drugs. However, the fact that hemorrhoids may also lead to erectile dysfunction can raise quite a few eyebrows.
Researchers now declare that men diagnosed with hemorrhoids, face an increased risk of suffering from erectile dysfunction.1
Before we establish the connection between hemorrhoids and erectile dysfunction, it’s important to understand what these two conditions are and what causes them.
Hemorrhoids: Causes And Symptoms
Hemorrhoids, also called piles, occur when the veins around the anus or inside the rectum get dilated (enlarged) or engorged with blood. This can cause a great deal of discomfort, itching, and even bleeding.
Hemorrhoids may be caused by the following reasons:
- Old aging (However, this does not mean, that young adults and children won’t get them)
- Chronic Diarrhea
- Chronic Constipation
- Sitting for long intervals of time, especially on the toilet
- Lifting very heavy items on repeat.
- Anal Intercourse
- Obesity, often diet-related, for instance, not eating a high-fiber diet
- Genetics
Symptoms of hemorrhoids may include:
- Painless bleeding
- Itching or irritation in and around the anal region
- Discomfort, pain or soreness in and around the anal region
- Lumps protruding from the anal region
- Swelling in and around the anal region.
- Feces that may leak out unintentionally
Blood Circulation And Penile Erection
A healthy blood circulation is essential for a man to get a perfect erection.
When a man is sexually aroused, his brain gives out nerve impulses that boost blood circulation in his penis. The blood rushes in to fill up the spongy chambers inside the penis, thus causing it to expand and become rigid or hard. Simultaneously, the veins that would otherwise drain blood from the penis automatically constrict so that the blood remains trapped inside. This way, the man is able to maintain his erection all through intercourse.
Erectile Dysfunction: When there is not enough blood circulation in the penis, a man will suffer from erectile dysfunction. In such a case, the man loses his ability to have an erection, and therefore, as a result, being unable to have sexual intercourse.
The Link Between Hemorrhoids And Erectile Dysfunction
During hemorrhoids, the veins and blood vessels in and around the anal region as well as around the lower rectum get swollen. This interrupts the blood circulation around the pelvic area. As a result, the blood vessels involved in giving a man his erection don’t get enough blood to make his penis rigid and this leads to erectile dysfunction.
Additionally, the extreme discomfort that a man with hemorrhoids experiences can divert his sexual desire until he finally finds it impossible to focus on getting erect.
How To Treat Hemorrhoids
The good news is that it is easy to treat hemorrhoids and even prevent them from returning. Here are a few common ways you can treat them.
1. Topical Treatment: Applying aloe vera, coconut oil, or apple cider vinegar can help relieve you of the pain and discomfort associated with hemorrhoids.
2. Dietary Changes: Remove any foods that are causing you an upset stomach. Instead, increasing the amount of fiber in your diet. Incorporate whole grains, plenty of vegetables, and yogurt. Also, ensure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. This can help your stools to pass easily, thereby eliminating your body’s need to strain your vessels during bowel movements.
3. Reduced Toilet Time: It’s alright to allow gravity to help, but focus on letting your bowels do most of the work. Don’t spend hours inside the bathroom, trying to force things out. Sit for a little while, and if nothing happens, put it off for a couple of hours and then try again.
In most cases, erectile dysfunction will be cured once you successfully treat hemorrhoids, that is if hemorrhoids were the cause of your dysfunction, to begin with. If erectile dysfunction persists, consult your doctor immediately to know what the cause is.
It could also help to do some research regarding sexual enhancement supplements. However, make sure to consult your doctor before popping them, especially if you’re already on some other kind of medication.
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