Last updated:

January 30, 2023

5 mins

 min read

Can Dehydration cause Erectile Dysfunction?

Staying hydrated is an extremely important part of your daily life. It is a basic necessity which keeps you up and running. The magnanimous impacts of dehydration are only felt when you land in that situation.

Reviewed by
Reyana D’Souza
Written by
Malvika Rathi
TABLE OF CONTENTS

You may not be worried about the likelihood of dizziness and muscle cramps, but did you know that dehydration could also impair your performance in the bedroom? There is indeed a connection between dehydration and Erectile Dysfunction, and we explore this in depth here. Read on!

What is Erectile Dysfunction 

Erectile Dysfunction is a sexual health concern where a penis owner finds it difficult to get and maintain an erection long enough to indulge in satisfying intercourse. There is a common notion that ED is a chronic problem, but it can also be temporary and induced due to specific conditions such as dehydration or excessive consumption of alcohol. 

For general health, including sexual wellness, hydration is crucial. Your body experiences negative impacts and problems if you don't drink enough water. Many of these can result in ED.

Symptoms of Dehydration 

Depending on a person's body size, degree of physical activity, and exposure to intense weather, their fluid requirements may change. 

A minor case of dehydration may result in the following symptoms: 

  • Thirst
  • Tiredness
  • Dry Mouth
  • Dizziness

When a person begins to show indications of dehydration and does not consume water or other fluids, they may advance to severe dehydration. This might lead to a medical emergency as well. 

Severe dehydration signs include: 

  • Extreme thirst 
  • Confusion 
  • No sweating, even in a warm climate
  • Low blood pressure
  • Little to no urine production
  • Rapid heartbeat


The link between Dehydration and Erectile Dysfunction 

Erections aren't as straightforward as popular culture would have you believe. The ability of a man to get and maintain an erection long enough to participate in sexual activity can be impacted by a variety of different bodily systems. 

Numerous systems are affected by hydration. For instance, dehydration can raise body warmth, impair cognition, and bring on headaches, drowsiness, and irritability. Strength and muscle endurance are also significantly impacted. 

Many of these may have an impact on performance in the bedroom, but blood volume is the most relevant to a boner.

A good level of hydration suggests a good blood volume as well. This increased blood volume improves blood flow throughout your system, specifically to your penis. If there is reduced blood flow, your penis will receive less oxygen (which is transported throughout your body by red blood cells).  

Men suffering from ED report reduced penile oxygen saturation. A dip in the body's fluid level causes the release of angiotensin, a hormone that tightens or constricts blood vessels. This may raise blood pressure and obstruct the passage of blood to the penis.

Although it is frequently suggested that one must drink eight glasses of water per day, it might not be possible for everyone. Either way, consider sipping water often throughout the day to be well hydrated.

An overall healthy lifestyle can help in preventing Erectile Dysfunction to a large extent. Establishing healthy behaviours like getting adequate exercise, controlling your stress, keeping a healthy weight, and adhering to a heart-healthy diet will support your sexual health.

Precautions to avoid Dehydration 

The first one is very obvious – drink adequate amounts of water. In addition to this, one should also limit their consumption of caffeine drinks and alcohol as these could also cause dehydration. 

Depending on the amount of physical activity one is undertaking, it is vital to ensure that they are replenishing their system with a good number of electrolytes. So, be sure to drink plenty of fluids after a heavy workout session.

Other causes of Erectile Dysfunction 

ED is a common sexual health problem, and there are numerous physiological and psychological causes of it. Dehydration is one of the easy ones to spot and cure. However, other causes of Erectile Dysfunction might require immediate medical attention and in certain cases, medication as well. The following are other causes of ED:

  • Heart Disease 
  • High Cholesterol 
  • Obesity 
  • Mental health and Relationship issues
  • Parkinson's disease and Multiple Sclerosis 
  • Diabetes 
  • Prescription drugs and medication 

You can read more about how excessive pornographic consumption can cause Erectile dysfunction here

In many instances, addressing the underlying issue is necessary to treat erectile dysfunction. It can be as easy as drinking water (as in dehydration), or it can necessitate prescription medicine.

Oral medications, hormones, and vitamins and supplements are among the treatments for ED. These treat Erectile Dysfunction by soothing the penis muscles and enhancing blood flow. Some vitamins and supplements (such as red ginseng) may be beneficial in the treatment of ED, although not all of them have been demonstrated to be effective. Changing one's way of life may also result in improved erectile function.

We hope this article has helped you understand that there are many systems closely tied to erections, and it can be challenging to work your way through ED. With our judgement-free online consultations and discreet delivery of ED treatments, we strive to make this process as painless as possible. If you are suffering from Erectile Dysfunction and need help, we are just a click away!