The aftermath of the COVID-19 Pandemic had wreaked havoc on the overall health and well-being of individuals infected with the deadly SAR-CoV-2 virus. Particularly, the alarming rate of comorbid health disorders associated with coronavirus is a common event observed during the second wave of COVID-19. Right from black fungus, gastrointestinal disorders, happy hypoxia to lung disorders, coronavirus is distressing almost every vital organ of the system and increasing the risk of developing various health conditions.
COVID-19 And Erectile Dysfunction
A recent study has disclosed that COVID-19 increases the risk of developing erectile dysfunction (ED) by six times and affect fertility. The study investigated the association between ED and coronavirus in young healthy men. Medical experts continue to research more about COVID-19’s long-lasting impact on the system. They claim that a combination of several factors that arise from coronavirus has increased the risk of erectile dysfunction.
Also Read: Erectile Dysfunction: Causes, Diagnosis And Treatments
Some of the triggers of ED in coronavirus survivors include:
Improper Blood Flow
An inflammation that develops during or after the COVID infection may be one of the factors that cause erectile dysfunction. A hyperactive immune system works constantly hard to beat the virus, which leads to a state of hyper inflammation in many patients. Hyperinflammation can cause small blood clots and inflammation of the endothelium, which eventually interrupt the blood flow that is an important factor for normal erection.
Vascular Effects
Normal erectile function is an indicator of good heart function, as the vascular system and reproductive system are connected. Due to the hyper inflammation caused by a coronavirus, it affects the heart and surrounding muscles. Thus, the blood supply to the penis also gets blocked or narrow down due to a new vascular condition caused by the virus, which further causes erectile dysfunction.
Mental Health
Good mental health and well-being are closely linked with sexual health. In most cases, erectile dysfunction can result from pandemic related stress, anxiety, depression and financial crisis. ED can be triggered by mental health issues like depression that affects a patient’s self-esteem adversely. Hence, it is essential to address the mental health concerns to know about various factors that affect erectile dysfunction.
Also Read: Erectile Dysfunction: 5 Incredible Ayurvedic Herbs To Manage Male Impotency
Overall Health
Erectile dysfunction is a symptom commonly associated with other underlying health conditions. Men with poor health status are at higher risk of developing ED and suffer from the severe impact of coronavirus. The SARS-CoV-2 virus has the potential to cause a spectrum of health problems, where poor health status is the cause of concern for ED and risk of developing other complications. Hence, it is pivotal to seek immediate medical care for erectile dysfunction, mainly after getting COVID-19.
Conclusion:
Proper medical attention is needed to treat erectile dysfunction, natural remedies may not work well for all. However, some home remedies may act as a supportive treatment for erectile dysfunction which includes taking L-arginine rich foods such as peanuts, pumpkin seeds, oats and brown rice. Additionally, the holistic science of Ayurveda recommends having herbs such as Ashwagandha, Shatavari, Safed Musali and Gokshura that has the power to improve blood flow and reduce the risk of ED.
Furthermore, leading an active lifestyle which includes brisk walking and involving in aerobic exercise on a regular basis play a key role in uplifting overall health. While exercises like Kegel also helps to strengthen the perineum muscle, improve blood circulation and in the long run lower the risk of erectile dysfunction.
