Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is marked by problems with getting or keeping an erection. ED is a prevalent medical issue that affects 42% of men over 60. When diagnosed with ED, men today have recourse in the form of medications. It’s common to buy cheap generic viagra or other similar drugs for a quick fix to the ED problem. However, it is always more impactful to go for the root cause of ED. In most cases, it tends to be some underlying health condition, but it can also be lifestyle choices. Smoking weed (also known as Marijuana) is one such choice that many people make without considering the possibility of ED. In this blog, we will give you an overview of the causes and demonstrate the link between smoking weed and ED.
Common Causes of ED
Physical problems are a common cause of ED. However, many men who come with complaints about ED often have other chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure. Other more serious issues such as prostate cancer and heavy medication can also cause ED.
Mental health also plays a major role in erections. This is because arousal is as much a mental process as it is a physical process. Depression and anxiety are two widely prevalent mental health problems that can lead to decreased arousal and often ED. Furthermore, most psychoactive medication often prescribed for these mental health problems can also have side effects that decrease libido and lead to ED.
A man’s diet also dictates his sexual health. For example, heavy drinking and cigarette smoking can cause physical problems that lead to ED. Similarly, a sedentary lifestyle where one does not move around much or exercise can impact blood circulation in the body and impact erectile function.
Cigarette Smoking and ED
Smoking has two components that need to be understood. The first is the smoking element, and the second is the psychoactive ingredients in the substance. Frequent smoking can significantly affect the body’s circulatory system. It constricts blood vessels and decreases blood flow to lower regions of our body. Since getting erect mainly depends on blood flow, restricted blood circulations can cause ED. Smoking can also lead to prostate issues, which in turn can also cause ED.
A study done with a sample of over 1300 men found that ED was more associated with current smokers and past smokers as compared to men who had never smoked. Another study states that smoking can potentially double the chances of developing ED.
Marijuana Smoking and ED
Since Marijuana only recently became legal in some countries, very little research has been conducted on its specific effect on ED, more than what general smoking causes on its own. There isn’t yet definitive evidence, but we do know certain facts.
Marijuana releases much of the same chemicals into the body as tobacco when smoked. Many of these have the ability to damage your cardiovascular system in the long run, raising your risk for heart disease. Marijuana can also produce an elevation in systolic blood pressure in the short term. If you’re concerned about your sex life, bear in mind that hypertension and ED go hand in hand.
The toxic chemicals found in smoking tobacco also negatively affect how the body absorbs oxygen and how well it circulates blood around our bodies. Both these processes are essential for achieving and maintaining an erection. As a result, the risk of developing ED increases with the amount and frequency of smoking marijuana, similar to tobacco smoking.
However, there are some studies that in some cases, marijuana can actually help with ED by decreasing the risk for diabetes, which is a major cause of ED for many people. But as discussed previously, more research is needed before the medical community can reach any conclusion regarding marijuana use and ED.
Marijuana and ED Medication
Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra are some of the common medications used for treating ED. The way the chemical ingredients in these medications work is that they improve blood flow in the body. This improved blood flow makes it easier to get erect and maintain an erection for an extended period of time. There is a possibility that these medications may have interactions with other medications, hence why you should always see a doctor first.
Since marijuana is a schedule 1 drug and is considered safe compared to other heavy recreational drugs, its interactions with ED medication are very limited. In addition, there have been almost no reports of any side effects of using marijuana with any ED medication. However, marijuana does have interactions with other medications, such as those prescribed for depression and anxiety.
Verdict
Marijuana has two primary chemical components, THC and CBD. More research and studies are needed to know about the exact nature and interactions these chemical compounds have with the human body. Although there are certain known medical benefits of marijuana, and it is often used to treat mental and physical health issues, individuals should not use it for treating ED. Furthermore, if you experience ED while using marijuana, you should immediately contact your Doctor. As for ED medication like generic viagra or sildenafil generic these should also be only taken with a prescription to avoid interactions.
It is recommended that you should moderate your marijuana intake. Smoking should be avoided either way as it greatly negatively impacts our health. The best way to treat ED is by talking with your healthcare provider about lifestyle changes and medication.
IQ Doctor
IQ Doctor is a UK pharmacy that is fully licensed by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) to sell medicines online. IQ Doctor offers its customers a wide variety of ED medications. You can visit their website and get a free consultation with a medical professional to determine what may be suitable for you. Once you place your order, the medication will arrive at your doorstep without delay.
