When a guy’s penis is functioning properly, everything’s right with the world. When erectile dysfunction rears its ugly head, the world is no longer so bright and cheery. Certainly no man welcomes erectile dysfunction, but sometimes this condition can be a warning call of issues beyond penis health. For instance, in some cases this problem could be a clue to possible metabolic syndrome.
About metabolic syndrome
Although it’s frequently called a condition, metabolic syndrome is a term used to refer to the confluence of several different conditions. In general, it occurs when a person has chronic high blood pressure; runs high levels of “bad” cholesterol; runs low levels of “good” cholesterol; maintains a sugar count that is too high; and tends to have too much fat around the midsection. When a person has at least three of these conditions, he is said to have metabolic syndrome, which puts a person at risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes.
Although the term metabolic syndrome is not familiar to the general public, it is far from uncommon. In the United States, it is estimated that a full 25% of the adult population falls into the category of metabolic syndrome. And the odds of getting it increase with age.
Spare tire
The biggest symptom associated with metabolic syndrome is the “spare tire” – meaning the big belly that many people develop, giving their bodies an “apple” or “pear” shape. But it is possible to have metabolic syndrome without being seriously overweight – just as it is possible to be somewhat obese without having metabolic syndrome.
The penis effect
So other than the big belly, what is another symptom of this problem? That’s right – erectile dysfunction. Unfortunately, many men with the syndrome have a difficult attaining or maintaining an erection.
Metabolic syndrome can create cardiovascular issues. It can weaken the lining of the arteries, decrease the flow of blood and cause the heart to work harder. None of these things are good for heart health, and what is bad for the heart can have an impact on the penis.
As most men know, the erectile process is dependent upon the ability of the penis to accommodate a rushing influx of blood. When a man becomes aroused, the gateways open and blood fills the available space in the penis, getting soaked up by spongy tissue. The tissue expands and causes the penis to expand, too. But if the blood flow into the penis is sketchy, it is not able to become as firm as it needs to. And if the blood can’t remain trapped in the penis for a long enough time, it will result in the erection fading before it is meant to.
Treatment
The best treatment for metabolic syndrome is prevention. Eating a well-balanced diet and getting plenty of exercise to ward off obesity and keep cholesterol and blood sugar at healthy levels is crucial.
For guys who have already developed metabolic syndrome, modifying diet and exercise is still a good idea. In addition, a variety of medications may be recommended to treat the symptoms. Sticking to a doctor-developed treatment plan – including the doctor’s recommendations on diet and exercise – is essential. Metabolic syndrome can be managed, which can have a positive effect on erectile dysfunction.
Of course, managing erectile dysfunction brought on by metabolic syndrome will be easier if the penis itself is in good health as well. Regular use of a superior penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil, which is clinically proven mild and safe for skin) can make a difference. Look for a crème that includes L-arginine and vitamin C among its ingredients. L-arginine is an amino acid involved in keeping penis blood vessels open and receptive to increased flow. And vitamin C aids in collagen development, which in turn gives tone and elasticity to the penis skin, essential for proper growth capability during the erectile stage.
