Nicotinewhether smoked,vaped, orchewedanderectile dysfunction (ED)are closely linked.
This is because nicotine causes the narrowing of blood vessels and reduces circulation throughout the body, including thepenis.
This article explains how nicotine affects the body and how it contributes to ED.
Eva-Katalin / Getty Images
Eva-Katalin / Getty Images
Can Nicotine Cause ED?
Nicotine is a highly addictive stimulant found in tobacco.
Other chemical toxins created from cigarette smoke decrease levels of a compound called nitric oxide in the blood.
Over time, the continued constriction of blood vessels can cause them to stiffen, sometimes permanently.
Vasoconstriction is one central mechanism of ED, most specificallyarteriogenic EDcharacterized by the restriction of blood to the penis.
Multiple mechanisms are sometimes involved.
What Is the Risk of ED From Nicotine?
Irrespective of how nicotine enters your body, it has the potential to cause or contribute to ED.
Some of these effects may be caused in part by high rates of depression among people with nicotine addiction.
Quitting smokingis not easy, and doing cold turkey doesnt always work.
In-person and online smoking cessation support groups may also help.
Summary
Smoking can shrink blood vessels and restrict blood flow to the penis, causing erectile dysfunction.
Other conditions can contribute, such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
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Harvard Health.5 natural ways to overcome erectile dysfunction.
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